Tic Disorder (Tourette Syndrome)

DC 8103Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8103

A neurological condition characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics. Tourette syndrome involves both motor and vocal tics and can significantly impair social and occupational functioning.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 8103

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8103. 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

Completely disabling tics — your tics are constant, violent, and self-injurious, rendering you unable to function in social or occupational settings.

What the VA looks for

Constant violent motor and vocal tics
Severe self-injurious tics requiring medical intervention
Complete social isolation
Unable to maintain any employment
Refractory to all medical treatments
Requires supervision to prevent self-injury

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not differentiating tic disorder from other movement disorders — tics are semi-voluntary and can be briefly suppressed, unlike tremors or dystonia. A movement disorder neurologist should make the diagnosis.
⚠Failing to document the full spectrum of tics — both motor and vocal tics, including complex tics, should be documented along with their frequency and impact on daily life.
⚠Not filing secondary claims for co-occurring OCD, ADHD, or anxiety — these conditions are extremely common with Tourette syndrome and are independently ratable under mental health codes.
⚠Not describing tic severity during stressful periods — tics typically worsen with stress, fatigue, and anxiety, so documenting flare-ups provides a more accurate picture of disability.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Central Nervous System and Neuromuscular Diseases

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8103

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Completely disabling tics — your tics are constant, violent, and self-injurious, rendering you unable to function in social or occupational settings.

What the VA looks for

Constant violent motor and vocal tics
Severe self-injurious tics requiring medical intervention
Complete social isolation
Unable to maintain any employment
Refractory to all medical treatments
Requires supervision to prevent self-injury

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not differentiating tic disorder from other movement disorders — tics are semi-voluntary and can be briefly suppressed, unlike tremors or dystonia. A movement disorder neurologist should make the diagnosis.

⚠Failing to document the full spectrum of tics — both motor and vocal tics, including complex tics, should be documented along with their frequency and impact on daily life.

⚠Not filing secondary claims for co-occurring OCD, ADHD, or anxiety — these conditions are extremely common with Tourette syndrome and are independently ratable under mental health codes.

⚠Not describing tic severity during stressful periods — tics typically worsen with stress, fatigue, and anxiety, so documenting flare-ups provides a more accurate picture of disability.