C&P Exam Guide
PTSD C&P Exam
The examiner will assess whether you meet DSM-5 criteria for PTSD, confirm service connection through a stressor event, and evaluate symptom severity and functional impact.
DBQ: Initial PTSD DBQ / Review PTSD DBQ
Exam type: In-person (initial), Telehealth possible (increases)
Typical duration: 45-90 minutes
What the Examiner Looks For
Confirmed stressor event, DSM-5 criteria (intrusive thoughts, avoidance, negative mood changes, hyperarousal), frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms, and impact on occupational and social functioning.
Related Diagnostic Codes
DC 9411
Posttraumatic stress disorder
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
⚠️ Critical tip
Describe your worst days, not your best — the examiner needs to understand your condition at its most severe
Describe specific examples of how PTSD affects work, relationships, and daily activities
Be prepared to discuss your stressor event(s) in detail
Explain frequency, severity, and duration of each symptom
Mention sleep disturbances, nightmares, hypervigilance, anger issues
Bring a symptom journal/diary if you have one
Consider bringing your spouse or someone who witnesses your symptoms daily
❌ DON'T
⚠️ Critical tip
Don't minimize symptoms — saying 'I'm fine' or 'I manage okay' can lower your rating
Don't use clinical buzzwords or DSM-5 terminology — describe symptoms in your own words
Don't exaggerate — examiners are trained to detect malingering
Don't dress up or put on your 'best face' — present yourself as you are on a typical day
📋 BRING
Symptom diary/journal documenting episodes
Any buddy letters or lay statements from family/friends
List of current medications
Records of therapy/counseling
🔍 EXPECT
Detailed questions about your traumatic experience(s)
Questions about relationships, work history, social activities
Possible psychological questionnaires
The examiner may observe your behavior, affect, and demeanor throughout
The exam may feel uncomfortable — it is designed to assess your condition
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.