C&P Exam Guide
TBI C&P Exam
TBI exams assess multiple facets of brain function including memory, concentration, judgment, social interaction, and motor function.
DBQ: Traumatic Brain Injury DBQ
Exam type: In-person
Typical duration: 45-60 minutes
What the Examiner Looks For
The ten facets of TBI: memory/attention/concentration, judgment, social interaction, orientation, motor activity, visual spatial orientation, subjective symptoms, neurobehavioral effects, communication, and consciousness.
Related Diagnostic Codes
DC 8045
Residuals of traumatic brain injury (TBI)
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 the blast/impact event(s) that caused the TBI
Report all symptoms: headaches, dizziness, memory problems, irritability, light sensitivity
Describe how cognitive issues affect work and daily life
Mention any behavioral changes noticed by others
❌ DON'T
Don't minimize cognitive symptoms — they are harder to see but significantly rated
Don't forget to mention all blast exposures, even 'minor' ones
📋 BRING
Service records documenting blast exposure or head injury
Neuropsych testing results if you've had them
Buddy letters describing cognitive/behavioral changes
🔍 EXPECT
Cognitive testing (memory, attention, processing speed)
Neurological exam
Questions about each of the ten TBI facets
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.