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ICD-11 Classification of ADHD (6A05)
In ICD-11-MMS, ADHD is classified under code 6A05 within Neurodevelopmental disorders, replacing the ICD-10 F90 hyperkinetic disorders category. It resolves into inattentive (6A05.0), hyperactive-impulsive (6A05.1), combined (6A05.2) and unspecified (6A05.Z) presentations, defined by cross-situational, developmentally excessive, impairing symptoms.
In this answer 5 sections
Coding ADHD correctly starts with knowing where WHO placed it in ICD-11 — and how that shifted from the older ICD-10 frame.
In short
In ICD-11-MMS, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is classified under code 6A05, within the grouping of Neurodevelopmental disorders. This replaces the ICD-10 category of "hyperkinetic disorders" (F90) and aligns conceptually with the DSM-5 presentation model. ICD-11 defines it by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that emerges in the developmental period, is excessive for age and developmental level, and impairs functioning across multiple settings.
The classification, briefly
ADHD (6A05) sits in the ICD-11 chapter on mental, behavioural and neurodevelopmental disorders, reflecting its reconceptualisation as a neurodevelopmental condition rather than a disorder "usually arising in childhood". The category resolves into recognised presentations:
- 6A05.0 — predominantly inattentive presentation
- 6A05.1 — predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation
- 6A05.2 — combined presentation
- 6A05.Z — presentation unspecified
Key diagnostic principles under ICD-11: symptoms must be directly observable across more than one situation (home, school, clinic), present for an extended period (typically several months), and not better accounted for by another condition. Onset is in the developmental period, though ICD-11 — like DSM-5 — explicitly accommodates diagnosis in adolescence and adulthood where the pattern persists.
When to refer
Refer for structured developmental and behavioural assessment when inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity is cross-situational, persistent, and functionally impairing beyond what age and context explain. Corroborate with multi-informant report (caregiver and school), screen for the common comorbidities — specific learning disorder, ASD, anxiety, sleep disturbance — and rule out hearing, vision and absence-seizure mimics before attributing presentation to ADHD alone.
The Pinnacle way
A clinical AbilityScore® and any formal diagnosis are established only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre, under qualified clinician care — never from a code, a form or an app. Our behavioural therapy pathways translate an ICD-11-aligned profile into a measurable, function-first support plan. Explore how Pinnacle supports neurodevelopmental presentations across 70+ centres.
Trusted sources
WHO ICD-11 (entry 6A05, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder); NICE NG87 on ADHD diagnosis and management; the American Academy of Pediatrics via HealthyChildren.org; and CDC developmental milestone guidance.
Next step — Refer a child with a suspected ADHD presentation for a clinician-led developmental assessment at your nearest Pinnacle centre.
This is general information, not a diagnosis — individual assessment and diagnosis require an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
CONNECT THE ANSWER TO YOUR CHILD’S DAY
Something to notice. Something to discuss.
What to notice
Cross-situational inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity that is excessive for age, persists for months, and impairs function at home and school — with comorbid learning, ASD, anxiety or sleep concerns flagged.
In everyday life
When coding or referring, gather multi-informant report (caregiver plus school) before attributing presentation to ADHD — single-setting observations are insufficient under ICD-11.
Bring your observations and questions to your child’s professional. Choose activities that suit your child’s comfort, abilities and agreed plan.
Bring your questions to a first visitQuestions families ask
What is the ICD-11 code for ADHD?
ADHD is coded 6A05 in ICD-11-MMS, within the Neurodevelopmental disorders grouping.
How does ICD-11 differ from ICD-10 for ADHD?
ICD-10 used the category 'hyperkinetic disorders' (F90). ICD-11 reclassifies the condition as ADHD (6A05) under neurodevelopmental disorders, aligning conceptually with the DSM-5 presentation model and explicitly allowing diagnosis across the lifespan.
What are the ICD-11 subtypes of ADHD?
ICD-11 defines presentations: predominantly inattentive (6A05.0), predominantly hyperactive-impulsive (6A05.1), combined (6A05.2), and unspecified (6A05.Z).
Does ICD-11 require symptoms in more than one setting?
Yes. ICD-11 requires inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity to be directly observable across more than one situation, persistent, developmentally excessive, and functionally impairing.
FOLLOW THE SOURCE
References behind this answer.
- Source referenceWHO ICD-11 — Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Source referenceNICE NG87 — ADHD diagnosis and management
- Organisation website · further readingAmerican Academy of Pediatrics — HealthyChildren.org
- Source referenceCDC — Learn the Signs. Act Early.
References are supplied with this answer. An organisation homepage offers further reading; it does not establish an independent review of this page.
Content attribution: SETU Consortium · Pinnacle Blooms Network.
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