Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesUnder the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a person has a disability if they meet at least one of three tests: they have an impairment that substantially limits a major life activity, have a record of such an impairment, or were subjected to prohibited action because of an actual or perceived impairment. The definition is meant to be interpreted broadly, but it does not decide every individual case by itself.
What is the definition of disability under the ADA?
The ADA defines disability in relation to an individual in three alternative ways. A person does not need to meet all three. The statutory definition is in 42 U.S.C. § 12102.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Disability Rights Handbook: Edition 51: April 2026 - April 2027 | $84.37 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Disability Rights UK Disability Rights Handbook Edition 50 April 2025 - April 2026. | $88.24 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Disability Rights Handbook | $16.50 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Disability Rights Handbook 2009-2010 | $1,857.81 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Disability Rights Handbook | $3,015.41 | Buy on Amazon |
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Actual disability: A physical or mental impairment substantially limits one or more major life activities.
- Record of disability: The person has a record of an impairment that substantially limited a major life activity.
- Regarded as having a disability: The person was subjected to a prohibited action because of an actual or perceived impairment, whether or not that impairment limits—or is perceived to limit—a major life activity.
The regarded-as prong does not cover an impairment that is both transitory and minor. For this exclusion, “transitory” means an actual or expected duration of six months or less. That six-month threshold applies to this specific exclusion; it is not a general minimum duration for disability under the ADA.
What counts as a major life activity?
The statute gives a non-exhaustive list, covering everyday activities as well as the operation of major bodily functions. A limitation in just one major life activity can be enough for the actual-disability prong.
#1 Best Overall
Everyday activities
Examples include caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, and working.
Major bodily functions
Examples include functions of the immune, neurological, brain, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine, and reproductive systems. The statutory examples are not exhaustive.
Rank #2
- Disability Rights Handbook Edition 50 April 2025 - April 2026.
- ABISBOOK.
- Disability Rights UK.
How does the ADA apply the “substantially limits” standard?
Congress directs that the definition be construed in favor of broad coverage. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) says the phrase “substantially limits” is not meant to be a demanding standard and calls for an individualized assessment. Its Title III regulations also explain that this initial threshold should not require extensive analysis.
When assessing an actual disability, the law generally says not to consider the ameliorative effects of mitigating measures, such as medication or assistive technology. Ordinary eyeglasses and contact lenses are treated differently. An impairment that is episodic or in remission may qualify if it would substantially limit a major life activity when active.
Rank #3
Does a diagnosis automatically qualify as an ADA disability?
No diagnosis, by itself, settles the question in every situation. The relevant analysis depends on the impairment, which statutory prong applies, and the individual circumstances. DOJ notes that many conditions may qualify, while not every condition necessarily meets the applicable standard. The ADA definition is not a fixed list of qualifying diagnoses.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is the ADA a benefits program?
No. The ADA is a federal civil-rights law, not an application-based benefits program. Whether someone meets the definition is distinct from whether a particular ADA protection or requirement applies in a specific situation. The relevant rules can depend on the ADA context; for a specific legal question, consult the applicable statute and regulations or seek advice from a qualified legal professional. DOJ’s introduction to the ADA provides a plain-language overview.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
