Current rating criteria (DC 6847)
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Asymptomatic but with documented sleep disorder breathing |
| 30% | Persistent daytime hypersomnolence |
| 50% | Requires use of a breathing assistance device such as a CPAP machine |
| 100% | Chronic respiratory failure with carbon dioxide retention or cor pulmonale, or requires tracheostomy |
Proposed changes are not finalIn 2022 VA proposed rating sleep apnea based on treatment effectiveness instead of CPAP use. As of October 2026 that rule has not been finalized, so the criteria above still apply. Existing ratings are generally protected from a schedule change unless your condition actually improves.
Paths to service connection
- Direct: In-service symptoms (snoring, witnessed apneas, fatigue) documented in records or described by fellow service members, plus a medical link
- Secondary or aggravation: A medical opinion that a service-connected condition (for example, PTSD or certain medications) caused or worsened the sleep apnea. VA also allows obesity as an "intermediate step" in some cases.
- Toxic exposure: Sleep apnea isn't a PACT Act presumptive condition, but chronic rhinitis and sinusitis are presumptive for qualifying burn pit service and may support a secondary theory with medical evidence.
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Official sources
38 CFR 4.97 · VA proposed rule RIN 2900-AQ72
Rating criteria summarized for general information. Read the full regulation for details. Last reviewed October 2026.