C&P Exam Guide

Eye / Vision C&P Exam

Eye exams evaluate visual acuity, visual field loss, and eye diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Corrected and uncorrected visual acuity are both tested. Visual field testing determines peripheral vision loss, which is rated separately from central acuity.

DBQ: DBQ - Eye Conditions
Exam type: In-person with ophthalmologic testing
Typical duration: 30-45 minutes

What the Examiner Looks For

Best corrected visual acuity (distance and near), visual field measurements, intraocular pressure (for glaucoma), presence of active eye disease, incapacitating episodes requiring prescribed bed rest, anatomical loss or cosmetic defect, and impact on ability to work and drive.

Related Diagnostic Codes

DC 6013
Open-angle glaucoma
DC 6027
Cataract
DC 6029
Aphakia
DC 6066
Other eye 20/40 (6/12)
DC 6080
Field vision, impairment

General Tips for Every C&P Exam

📝Be honest — do not exaggerate or minimize.
📝Describe your WORST days, not your best.
📝Focus on how the condition impacts your daily life and ability to work.
📝Keep a symptom journal or diary before your exam.
📝Review the DBQ for your condition beforehand.
📝Arrive early and bring all relevant records.
📝You can bring a support person (spouse, friend).
📝The exam is for evaluation, not treatment — do not expect prescriptions.
📝The examiner is not your doctor — they report findings to the VA.
📝If you disagree with the exam results, you can request a new exam.

✅ DO

Bring your current glasses or contacts and your most recent prescription.
Describe how vision problems affect driving, reading, work, and daily tasks.
⚠️ Critical tip
Report any episodes of sudden vision loss, floaters, or flashes.

❌ DON'T

Do not wear tinted lenses or sunglasses during the acuity test.
⚠️ Critical tip
Do not try to "fail" the eye chart — inconsistent responses are flagged and can hurt your claim.

📋 BRING

Recent ophthalmology or optometry records.
Visual field test results if you have them.
Documentation of any eye surgeries or laser treatments.

🔍 EXPECT

Standard eye chart test (Snellen chart) for acuity.
Visual field testing (Goldmann or automated perimetry) for peripheral vision.
Dilated eye exam — bring sunglasses for afterward.

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not legal or medical advice. Every veteran's situation is unique. Consider consulting with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or VA-accredited attorney for personalized guidance.