ICD-11 Classification for Developmental Language Disorder (6A01.2)

A precise code keeps every referral, report and therapy plan speaking the same clinical language — and for Developmental Language Disorder, that code is 6A01.2.

In short

In ICD-11-MMS, Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is classified under code 6A01.2, sitting within 6A01 Developmental speech or language disorders, itself part of the Neurodevelopmental disorders grouping (block 6A0). It denotes persistent difficulties in the acquisition, understanding, production or use of language — spoken or signed — that emerge in the developmental period, fall substantially below age expectations, and are not better accounted for by sensory impairment, neurological condition or intellectual disability.

The classification, precisely

Within ICD-11, 6A01 Developmental speech or language disorders carries several specified entities, and 6A01.2 is the receptive and expressive / expressive language strand of developmental language disorder. The official ICD-11 framework provides subcategories distinguishing the predominant language domain affected:

• 6A01.20 — DLD with impairment of receptive and expressive language
• 6A01.21 — DLD with impairment of mainly expressive language
• 6A01.22 — DLD with impairment of mainly pragmatic language
• 6A01.23 — DLD with other specified language impairment

Diagnostic essentials are persistence over time, onset in the developmental period, and functional impact, with the differential excluding hearing loss, autism spectrum disorder as the primary explanation, and disorders of intellectual development. ICD-11 deliberately replaces the older 'specific language impairment' terminology, aligning with the CATALISE consensus that favours Developmental Language Disorder as the working clinical label.

When to refer

Refer for structured language assessment when a child shows persistent comprehension or expressive deficits disproportionate to overall development, limited two-word combinations by 24 months, or word-finding and sentence-formulation difficulties that constrain function across home and school settings. Speech-language pathology assessment with audiology clearance is the appropriate first line.

The Pinnacle way

Developmental measurement supports care planning; diagnosis requires an appropriately qualified healthcare professional., under qualified clinician care — never from a code alone or an online form. Coding documents the condition; the clinical profile guides the plan. Explore our speech therapy pathway, understand how the AbilityScore® is established, or begin with us.

Trusted sources

WHO ICD-11 for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics, Neurodevelopmental disorders chapter; WHO ICF framework of functioning; ASHA clinical resources on developmental language disorder.

Next step — Coding a case? Partner with a Pinnacle clinical team for assessment and a measurable language plan.

This is general information, not a diagnosis — individual assessment and diagnosis require an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.