C&P Exams: Complete Guide
Compensation & Pension (C&P) exams are crucial to your claim's success. This guide covers everything you need to know—from preparation to what happens after.
What is a C&P Exam?
A C&P exam is a medical examination ordered by VA to evaluate your claimed conditions. The examiner documents the current severity of your disabilities and provides medical opinions for the rater to use in making a decision.
Critical: Attend Your Exams!
Missing a C&P exam can result in:
- Denial of your claim
- Reduction of existing ratings (for re-exams)
- Months of delays
If you can't make it, call to reschedule immediately!
Preparing for Your C&P Exam
Plan for Personal Safety
If your exam (especially mental health) might bring up difficult memories or emotions, have a plan:
- Arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you
- Know your safe space or plan for after the exam
- Have emergency contact numbers ready
Know What Your Exam Is For
If you're claiming multiple conditions, you may have separate exams for different conditions:
- Separate exams for: Dental, mental health, TBI, vision, hearing
- Combined into one exam: Most musculoskeletal issues (joints, back, etc.)
- Follow-ups: Lab work or X-rays may be scheduled separately
If you're unsure what your exam is for, call the exam provider and ask!
Review the DBQ
Examiners typically follow Disability Benefit Questionnaires (DBQs) for each condition. Reviewing the relevant DBQ helps you understand what questions to expect.
Review the Rating Criteria
Understanding how your condition is rated helps you describe your symptoms accurately. The examiner needs specific information to document your impairment level.
What to Bring
- Photo ID
- List of current medications
- Any paperwork the provider sent you (fill it out beforehand)
- Private medical records if not already submitted (optional)
Plan Ahead
- Know the route and how long it takes to get there
- Arrive early—don't give the examiner a reason to rush or refuse to see you
- If you need transportation help, contact local VSOs or check VetRide
During the C&P Exam
Be Honest
Do NOT exaggerate or lie. Fraud is a serious crime, and examiners are trained to spot inconsistencies. If you appear to be faking, they may note you as a "suspected malingerer," which can result in denial.
Don't Minimize Either
Many Veterans downplay their symptoms out of habit or pride. Be accurate—if it hurts, say so.
For Range of Motion Tests
- Tell the examiner when pain begins or worsens
- Stop when pain becomes too severe
- If you're having a good day, explain what your range of motion is like on bad days
Careful with ROM Tests
If you appear to not be trying, the examiner can mark the test as invalid. Be honest about your limitations without appearing to fake them.
For Mental Health Exams
- If today isn't your worst day, describe your worst day in the past month
- Explain how your symptoms affect your social life, relationships, and work
- Be specific about frequency and severity of symptoms
Explain Functional Impact
The examiner needs to understand how your condition affects daily life:
- Work performance and limitations
- Daily activities you can't do or struggle with
- Social and relationship impacts
- Flare-ups—how often, how severe, how long
Can I Bring Someone With Me?
Yes, you can request to have someone accompany you. The examiner may refuse, but usually allows it. The companion should NOT answer questions for you or participate in the exam.
Can I Record the Exam?
While not legally prohibited, VA will NOT accept your recording as evidence. However, if you have concerns about the exam, VA is generally willing to schedule a new exam if you explain why.
Types of C&P Exams
In-Person Exam
Standard exam conducted at a VA facility or contracted provider location.
Telehealth Exam
Some exams (particularly mental health) may be conducted via video. Follow the same preparation and honesty guidelines.
ACE Exam (Acceptable Clinical Evidence)
A records review without an in-person examination. The examiner reviews your medical records to form an opinion.
Note: The examiner MAY call you during an ACE exam for clarification. Answer phone calls on the day of your scheduled ACE exam!
After the Exam
Your Part is (Mostly) Done
Unless you have additional evidence to submit, your job is to wait. Processing can take weeks to months.
Can I Add Information After the Exam?
Yes—submit a personal statement if you forgot to mention something or want to clarify points from the exam.
Getting a Copy of Your Exam Report
If the exam was at the VA: Available through Blue Button 30 days after the report is finalized.
If the exam was by a contractor (QTC, VES, etc.): Request your C-file from VA.
Re-Examinations
If your condition isn't rated as static, you may have future re-exams. These focus on current severity, not service connection (which is already established).
Re-exams are typically scheduled for:
- Active cancers
- Conditions with mandatory re-evaluation periods
Missing a Re-Exam
Failure to attend a re-exam may result in your rating being reduced or discontinued!
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon will I be scheduled?
Typically within 2 weeks to a few months after your claim moves to evidence gathering.
What if I had a bad examiner?
Contact VA and request a new examination, explaining your concerns. VA is generally accommodating if you have legitimate issues.
What if I submitted my own DBQ/IMO—do I still need to attend?
YES. If VA orders an exam, attend it. Skipping can result in denial even if you submitted your own evidence.
Do I get paid mileage?
Veterans receive mileage reimbursement for C&P exams. Active duty servicemembers and Veterans overseas do NOT receive mileage.
How long do exams take?
Anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on how many conditions are being examined and whether it's initial or re-exam.
What does "Exam Request - Closed" mean?
This means the VA no longer needs to request an exam because a contractor has accepted the assignment. The contractor should contact you shortly to schedule.
Who qualifies to conduct exams?
- Hearing exams: State-licensed audiologist
- Mental health (initial): Board-certified psychiatrist or licensed doctorate-level psychologist
- TBI (initial): Psychiatrist, physiatrist, neurologist, or neurosurgeon
- Everything else: Can be done by general practitioners or nurse practitioners