Classification across the entire Paralympic Movement is governed by the IPC Athlete Classification Code, established by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). This Code creates a framework and rules to ensure that the classification system remains consistent, transparent, and fair across all Paralympic sports, including emerging disciplines like Para Pickleball.

Purpose of the IPC Athlete Classification Code:

The primary objective is to ensure that:

- Athletes compete equitably based on how their impairment impacts their sport performance.

- Classification is sport-specific, acknowledging that different impairments influence performance in distinct ways depending on the sport.

- Athlete evaluation is conducted ethically and professionally using evidence-based methods.

Each International Federation (IF) modifies and implements the IPC Athlete Classification Code to suit its sport, developing its own sport-specific classification rules while ensuring compliance with the overarching IPC Code.