SIGN IN
All conditions
Hearing and sensory

Hearing Loss

Reduced hearing evaluated primarily through controlled audiometric testing.

Regulatory summaries checked against eCFR current through July 9, 2026 · condition-library-2026.07.09 · record 4a0a925a12a0
Quick rating reference

How VA may evaluate Hearing Loss

Select a diagnostic code or shared formula to see the criteria that apply to that manifestation.

Verified summaries are labeled
Potential codesDC 6100
Verified evaluation levels0%–100%
Rating paths shown1
Mechanical rating method

Hearing impairment tables

Authorized pure-tone and speech-discrimination results are combined through regulatory tables; symptoms alone do not produce the percentage.

Plain-language summary verified
EvaluationPlain-language criteria summary
0%–100%
Calculated from authorized hearing-test results

Pure-tone averages and Maryland CNC speech-discrimination scores produce a Roman numeral for each ear; Table VII combines those numerals into the percentage.

Hearing loss has no accurate plain-language symptom definition for each percentage. The result is mechanically derived from the regulatory tables, with special rules for certain exceptional hearing patterns.

This reference explains the schedule; it does not predict an individual rating. VA determines the applicable code and evaluation from the complete record.

Overview

VA hearing evaluations use specific testing methods. Everyday difficulty remains useful context, but the numeric evaluation is based primarily on authorized pure-tone and speech-discrimination results.

What VA measures

Hearing impairment is evaluated through the tables in §§ 4.85 and 4.86 using controlled speech-discrimination and pure-tone threshold results, with special provisions for certain exceptional patterns.

Authorized pure-tone thresholds
Maryland CNC speech-discrimination results
Exceptional patterns of hearing impairment
Results for each ear

Evidence that may be useful

  • Current authorized audiogram
  • Service audiograms and threshold shifts
  • Noise-exposure history
  • Audiology treatment and hearing-aid records
  • Statement describing functional communication effects

Helpful documentation habits

  • Retain complete audiograms, not only a summary
  • Identify whether speech testing used Maryland CNC
  • Describe real-world communication problems
  • List occupational and recreational noise exposure accurately

Common preparation gaps

  • Using an online hearing test as rating evidence
  • Assuming hearing aids determine the percentage
  • Submitting graphs without readable numeric results

Diagnostic-code map

A diagnosis or body part can involve more than one code. The applicable code depends on the medical findings and manifestations in the record.

DC 6100§§ 4.85–4.86
Hearing impairment

The percentage is mechanically derived from authorized pure-tone and speech-discrimination test results using regulatory tables.

Official criteria