Short answer
You can usually bring a spouse, friend or caregiver to the appointment. Whether they can stay in the exam room is up to the examiner.
How to Prepare for Your C&P Exam
- Review your claim. Know exactly which conditions the exam covers. The appointment letter or VA.gov will tell you.
- Write a symptom list. Include how often symptoms happen, how bad they are, how long flare-ups last, and your worst days.
- Describe how it affects your life. Include missed work, trouble sleeping, and things you can no longer do at home or socially.
- Bring a medication list and any private medical records VA may not have.
- Consider a lay statement from a spouse or friend who sees your symptoms (VA Form 21-10210), submitted with your claim.
Important
Be honest and specific. Don’t minimize (“I’m fine”) and don’t exaggerate. Examiners are trained to spot both, and your credibility matters.
USA C&P Exam: Quick Facts
- Run by
- VA clinicians or VA-contracted exam vendors
- Purpose
- Medical evidence for disability compensation or pension claims
- Length
- 15 minutes to 1+ hour (initial mental-health exams can be longer)
- Cost to veteran
- $0
- Forms used
- Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs)
- Ratings
- 0%–100% in 10% steps
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Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Coverage, prices and requirements change and vary by provider and location. Confirm details with your provider, insurer or the agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.