Players must have a combination of upper and lower extremity impairment to be considered eligible to participate. Classification is based on a functional testing system that each athlete is required to complete. These assessments are primarily done by a physical therapist, occupational therapist and doctors who have a vast knowledge about the type of disability. The athletes are classed on a point system of 0.5 to 3.5. The maximum point value allowed on the court at any given time per team is 8.0. Example: 3.0 + 2.0 + 2.0 + 1.0 = 8.0. A player with a 0.5 classification has the least amount of function and a player with a 3.5 classification has the most amount of function.

Basic function testing is performed while an athlete is stationary. Testing includes but is not limited to trunk testing, manual muscle tests, and upper and lower-extremity musculature, balance, localized strength, and mobility.  Functional movements are tested during the sport by assessing movements including twisting, turning, pushing the wheelchair, dribbling, passing and transferring.

Classification within the USQRA has some exceptions that are not used within international competition. A female athlete receives a 0.5 deduction from her original class. So, if she classes in as a 3.0 she will play as a 2.5. Also, players over the age of 45 years old also receive a 0.5 deduction from their original class.  For more information on classification, go to the International Wheelchair Rugby Federation's A Layperson's Guide to Wheelchair Rugby Classification.