Diplopia (Double Vision)

DC 6090Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.79, DC 6090

A condition where you see two images of a single object, caused by misalignment of the eyes or damage to cranial nerves controlling eye movement. Common after traumatic brain injury, blast exposure, or orbital fractures during military service. Rated based on the location and extent of the diplopia within the visual field.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 6090

Rating range

0% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.79, DC 6090. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Your diplopia is severe and constant throughout most of the visual field, requiring you to occlude (patch) one eye to function.

What the VA looks for

Severe constant diplopia throughout visual field
Eye occlusion (patching) required for daily function
Unable to drive without patching one eye
Surgical intervention attempted or considered
Severe occupational impairment documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not obtaining diplopia field testing (Goldmann or Lancaster red-green test) — the VA rates diplopia based on where in the visual field it occurs, not just whether it exists.
⚠Not documenting whether the diplopia is constant or intermittent — constant diplopia receives a higher rating.
⚠Failing to connect diplopia to a service-connected TBI or cranial nerve injury — acquired diplopia in adults is almost always due to neurological or muscular damage.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions such as headaches, nausea, or balance problems that result from chronic diplopia.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Eye Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Diplopia (Double Vision)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6090

Rating range

0% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your diplopia is severe and constant throughout most of the visual field, requiring you to occlude (patch) one eye to function.

What the VA looks for

Severe constant diplopia throughout visual field
Eye occlusion (patching) required for daily function
Unable to drive without patching one eye
Surgical intervention attempted or considered
Severe occupational impairment documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not obtaining diplopia field testing (Goldmann or Lancaster red-green test) — the VA rates diplopia based on where in the visual field it occurs, not just whether it exists.

⚠Not documenting whether the diplopia is constant or intermittent — constant diplopia receives a higher rating.

⚠Failing to connect diplopia to a service-connected TBI or cranial nerve injury — acquired diplopia in adults is almost always due to neurological or muscular damage.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions such as headaches, nausea, or balance problems that result from chronic diplopia.