The VA disability rating for scars ranges from 10% to 80% under 38 CFR §4.118. The VA rates scars using diagnostic codes 7800 through 7805. Your rating depends on where the scar is, how big it is, and whether it causes pain or other problems. This guide explains each code in plain language.
Scars are common in service-connected claims. They can come from surgery, burns, shrapnel, or other injuries. A scar can also be a secondary condition linked to another rated injury. Understanding the rules helps you file a stronger claim.
How the VA Rates Scars Under 38 CFR 4.118
The VA rates scars under 38 CFR 4.118 using five main diagnostic codes. Each code covers a different type of scar. The codes are 7800, 7801, 7802, 7804, and 7805. Where the scar sits on your body decides which code applies.
Code 7800 covers the head, face, and neck. Codes 7801 and 7802 cover scars on the rest of the body. Code 7804 covers painful or unstable scars anywhere. Code 7805 covers other effects a scar may cause.
You can learn more about how percentages work on our VA disability percentages page. Scars are just one part of the larger VA disability conditions list.
Scar Diagnostic Code Rating Table (DC 7800-7805)
The table below maps each scar diagnostic code to its rating criteria. Use it to find which code matches your scar. The percentages come directly from 38 CFR 4.118.
| Diagnostic Code | Type of Scar | Rating Range | Key Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7800 | Head, face, or neck (burns and disfigurement) | 10% - 80% | Based on visible tissue loss and the 8 characteristics of disfigurement |
| 7801 | Deep, nonlinear scars (not head/face/neck) | 10% - 40% | By area; 10% at 6 sq. in. up to 40% at 144 sq. in. or more |
| 7802 | Superficial, nonlinear scars (not head/face/neck) | 10% | Area of 144 sq. in. (929 sq. cm.) or greater |
| 7804 | Unstable or painful scars (any location) | 10% - 30% | 10% for 1-2 scars, 20% for 3-4, 30% for 5 or more |
| 7805 | Other effects of scars | Varies | Rated under another code for any disabling effect not covered above |
DC 7800: Burn Scar VA Rating for the Head, Face, and Neck
Diagnostic code 7800 covers scars and disfigurement of the head, face, or neck. It is the only scar code that can reach an 80% rating. The VA rates it using the eight characteristics of disfigurement.
A 10% rating needs one characteristic. A 30% rating needs two or three, or one feature affected. A 50% rating needs four or five, or two features affected. An 80% rating needs six or more, or gross distortion of three or more features.
The 8 Characteristics of Disfigurement
The eight characteristics of disfigurement decide the rating under DC 7800. The VA counts how many apply to your scar. More characteristics mean a higher rating.
- Scar 5 or more inches (13 cm) long
- Scar at least one-quarter inch (0.6 cm) wide at its widest part
- Surface raised or depressed when touched
- Scar stuck to the tissue underneath
- Skin a different color over an area larger than 6 square inches
- Skin texture abnormal over an area larger than 6 square inches
- Soft tissue missing over an area larger than 6 square inches
- Skin hard and inflexible over an area larger than 6 square inches
DC 7801 and 7802: Scars on the Body
Diagnostic codes 7801 and 7802 cover scars on areas other than the head, face, or neck. The VA rates these by the total area the scar covers. Code 7801 is for deep scars, and 7802 is for surface scars.
For deep scars (7801), a 10% rating starts at 6 square inches. The rating climbs to 20% at 12 square inches, 30% at 72 square inches, and 40% at 144 square inches. A deep scar is one with damage to the tissue under the skin.
For superficial scars (7802), the VA gives a single 10% rating. This applies when the scar covers 144 square inches (929 sq. cm.) or more. A superficial scar does not damage deeper tissue.
Painful Scar VA Rating Under DC 7804
A painful scar VA rating falls under diagnostic code 7804. The VA rates it by the number of scars that are painful or unstable. The location does not matter for this code.
One or two painful or unstable scars rate 10%. Three or four scars rate 20%. Five or more scars rate 30%. The VA adds an extra 10% if a scar is both unstable and painful.
An unstable scar is one that frequently loses its skin covering. A painful scar hurts on its own or when touched. A 2025 proposed rule may soon require objective evidence of pain for this code, so a doctor's exam note matters.
DC 7805: Other Effects and Limitation of Function
Diagnostic code 7805 covers any disabling effect a scar causes that the other codes do not. The VA rates these effects under whatever code fits best. A common example is loss of motion in a joint.
Here is a key point many veterans miss. A painful scar under 7804 can be rated separately from the limitation of function under 7805. These two ratings then combine using the VA's combined ratings table.
For example, a scar on your elbow might be painful and also limit how far you bend the arm. You could get a rating for the pain and a separate rating for the lost motion. This can raise your total rating.
Evidence and the C&P Exam for Scar Claims
The most important evidence for a scar claim is the Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. The examiner measures each scar and records its location. They note the length, width, and whether the scar is painful or unstable.
Photographs are strongly recommended, especially for disfigurement under DC 7800. Clear photos help the rater see the scar's size and appearance. Bring your own photos in case the exam does not capture everything.
Tell the examiner about every scar and every symptom. Mention pain, instability, and any limits on movement. Our C&P exam tips guide can help you prepare. Scars also often appear with other skin issues like dermatitis.
Common Scar-Claim Mistakes to Avoid
The most common scar-claim mistake is letting the C&P examiner miss a scar or a symptom. The VA rates only what the exam documents. Speak up about every scar, even small ones.
Veterans also forget that multiple scars can stack. Five or more painful scars reach 30% under DC 7804, not just 10%. Count them all and point each one out.
Another mistake is ignoring limitation of function. A scar that limits motion may earn a separate rating under DC 7805. Describe any stiffness, weakness, or lost range of motion to the examiner.
Finally, do not skip photographs for head, face, or neck scars. Photos often show disfigurement that words alone cannot. Bring dated, well-lit images to your exam.
Conclusion
The VA disability rating for scars depends on location, size, and symptoms under 38 CFR 4.118. Codes 7800, 7801, 7802, 7804, and 7805 each rate different scar types. Painful scars can be rated separately and combined with limitation of function for a higher total.
To estimate how your scar rating combines with other conditions, try our VA disability rating calculator. You can also explore the full VA disability guide to plan your claim.