History of sleep related breathing disorders
"History of sleep related breathing disorders, including but not limited to sleep apnea"
What This Code Means
Receiving DQ code D213.10 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to history of sleep related breathing disorders do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.
This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.
Official Regulation Text
From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)
“History of sleep-related breathing disorders, including, but not limited to, sleep apnea unless definitively treated by surgical intervention with resolution of symptoms.”
“Current diagnosis or treatment of sleep-related movement disorders, including, but not limited to, restless leg syndrome (i.e., Willis-Ekbom Disease) for which prescription medication is recommended.”
“History of parasomnia, including, but not limited to, sleepwalking, or night terrors, after the 13th birthday.”
“Chronic insomnia as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, or the use of medications or other substances to promote sleep 15 or more times over the past 12 months.”
“History of narcolepsy, cataplexy, or other hypersomnia disorders.”
What You Can Do Next
- 1Don't panic — a DQ code is not a rejection. Many candidates receive disqualification codes and still earn appointments to Service Academies or ROTC scholarships. Focus on strengthening every other part of your application while addressing the medical issue.
- 2Understand the waiver process for your path. For Service Academy candidates, your admissions officer initiates the waiver request. For ROTC candidates, your detachment handles it. You cannot request a waiver directly from DoDMERB — it must come through your commissioning source.
- 3Be the strongest candidate possible. Waiver authorities consider the whole person — academics, athletics, leadership, and character. The more competitive your overall application, the more likely a waiver request will be initiated and approved.
- 4Gather the right medical documentation. Specialist evaluations, treatment records, and evidence that the condition is resolved or well-managed can make or break a waiver request. Knowing exactly what documentation to submit — and how to present it — matters.
- 5Get expert guidance early. LTC Kirkland (Ret.) has guided hundreds of Academy and ROTC candidates through the DoDMERB process, with medical review support from COL Cajigal (Ret.). A single consultation can clarify your waiver options and develop the right strategy for your specific situation.
Read Our Full Guide on Neurological Conditions
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