---
title: "DC 6204 - Peripheral vestibular disorders:"
diagnostic_code: "6204"
body_system: "Impairment of Auditory Acuity"
cfr_section: "§ 4.87"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/hearing/6204-vertigo"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.87"
updated: "2026-07-21T20:23:22.746579Z"
---

# DC 6204 - Peripheral vestibular disorders:

Rated under § 4.87. Body system: Impairment of Auditory Acuity.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 30% | Dizziness and occasional staggering |
| 10% | Occasional dizziness |

## Notes

- Note: Objective findings supporting the diagnosis of vestibular disequilibrium are required before a compensable evaluation can be assigned under this code. Hearing impairment or suppuration shall be separately rated and combined.

# Peripheral Vestibular Disorders (VA Diagnostic Code 6204)

## Understanding This Condition

Peripheral vestibular disorders affect the balance system of the inner ear. Under the VA rating schedule, this condition is evaluated under **Diagnostic Code 6204** within **38 CFR § 4.87**, part of the body system covering **Impairment of Auditory Acuity**.

Symptoms recognized under this code center on **dizziness** and problems with balance, such as **staggering**.

## Available Rating Levels

The VA assigns a disability rating based on the severity and frequency of symptoms:

| Rating | Criteria |
|--------|----------|
| **30%** | Dizziness and occasional staggering |
| **10%** | Occasional dizziness |

## What the VA Looks For

When evaluating a peripheral vestibular disorder under Diagnostic Code 6204, the VA considers the following:

- **Objective findings are required.** Before a compensable evaluation can be assigned under this code, there must be objective findings supporting the diagnosis of **vestibular disequilibrium**.
- **The frequency and degree of dizziness and balance disturbance**, which determine whether the condition falls at the 10% level (occasional dizziness) or the 30% level (dizziness and occasional staggering).
- **Related conditions are rated separately.** Any **hearing impairment or suppuration** shall be separately rated and then combined.

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*This information is drawn from the VA rating schedule for Diagnostic Code 6204 (§ 4.87). It is provided for general educational purposes and does not guarantee any particular rating or outcome.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.87