C&P Exam Guide
Hearing Loss C&P Exam
Hearing loss ratings are based entirely on audiometric test results. The exam will include puretone audiometry and the Maryland CNC speech discrimination test.
DBQ: Hearing Loss and Tinnitus DBQ
Exam type: In-person with audiometry (required)
Typical duration: 30-45 minutes
What the Examiner Looks For
Puretone thresholds at 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz, Maryland CNC speech discrimination scores, and connection to service noise exposure.
Related Diagnostic Codes
DC 6100
Hearing loss
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
Describe your noise exposure history in detail
Explain specific hearing difficulties (can't hear conversations, TV volume, phone)
Do NOT wear hearing aids during the test — testing must be unaided
Mention any related conditions (tinnitus, ear infections)
❌ DON'T
Don't wear hearing aids to the audiometry test
Don't try to 'perform well' on the hearing test — let the results show your actual hearing
📋 BRING
Service records showing noise exposure
Previous audiograms for comparison
Buddy letters describing your hearing difficulty
🔍 EXPECT
Sound booth audiometry testing
Speech discrimination testing (Maryland CNC word list)
Questions about noise exposure history
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.