How to Use the AUDIT Test

The AUDIT is designed to be straightforward and quick to complete, typically requiring less than five minutes. However, the accuracy of your results depends on answering each question honestly and carefully. Taking time to reflect on your actual drinking patterns rather than how you wish they were or how you think they should be is essential for obtaining meaningful results.

Before You Begin

Find a quiet, private space where you can focus without interruption. Have a pen or pencil ready if you are completing a printed version, or prepare to record your answers if you are reviewing the PDF on a screen. Consider having a calendar or journal available if you need help recalling your drinking patterns over the past year, as some questions ask about frequency and quantity over this time period.

It is important to understand what constitutes a standard drink before beginning the test, as several questions ask about the number of drinks consumed. A standard drink contains approximately fourteen grams of pure alcohol, which is equivalent to twelve ounces of regular beer (about five percent alcohol), five ounces of wine (about twelve percent alcohol), or one and a half ounces of distilled spirits (about forty percent alcohol). Many people underestimate their alcohol consumption because they are unaware of these standard drink sizes or because they consume drinks with higher alcohol content than they realize.

Be aware that some beverages contain more than one standard drink. For example, a pint of beer (sixteen ounces) contains approximately one and one-third standard drinks. A large glass of wine served at a restaurant may contain seven to nine ounces, equivalent to one and a half to nearly two standard drinks. Mixed drinks made at home or at bars often contain two or more standard drinks, especially if they are made with generous pours of spirits. Taking a moment to calculate your actual consumption in standard drinks will improve the accuracy of your AUDIT results.

Completing the Questions

Read each question carefully and select the response that most accurately describes your drinking behavior over the past twelve months. The questions are designed to assess different aspects of alcohol use, including frequency of drinking, typical quantity consumed, frequency of heavy drinking episodes, symptoms of dependence, and harmful consequences of alcohol use. Each question offers multiple response options, typically ranging from never or zero drinks to daily or ten or more drinks, depending on what the question is asking.

Answer based on your actual behavior, not what you think is acceptable or what you wish your behavior was. The AUDIT is not a test you can pass or fail; it is a tool to help you understand your drinking patterns and their potential risks. Minimizing your drinking or selecting responses that make your consumption seem less than it actually is will only result in inaccurate results that fail to provide useful information.

If you find a question difficult to answer because your drinking varies considerably, choose the response that best represents your typical or average pattern. For questions about frequency, consider how often something occurs over the course of a month or year. For questions about quantity, think about what is typical for you on occasions when you drink, not your maximum consumption or your minimum consumption, but what is most common.

Some questions may ask about experiences that feel uncomfortable to acknowledge, such as being unable to remember what happened while drinking, injuring yourself or someone else due to drinking, or having others express concern about your alcohol use. These questions are included because they assess important consequences of alcohol use that indicate a need for intervention. Answer them honestly, remembering that the information is for your benefit and can help guide decisions about seeking help if needed.

Calculating Your Score

After completing all ten questions, calculate your total score by adding up the points for each response. Each question is scored from zero to four points, with specific point values assigned to each response option. The AUDIT form includes scoring information, or you can refer to the scoring guidelines on our AUDIT overview page. Your total score will range from zero to forty points.

Take time to review your responses before calculating your final score. Ensure you have answered all questions and that you have recorded the correct point value for each response. If you are unsure about any response, consider whether it accurately reflects your drinking behavior over the past year. It is better to take a few extra minutes to ensure accuracy than to rush through and obtain results that do not truly represent your situation.

Once you have your total score, you can interpret it using the risk categories described below. Remember that the AUDIT is a screening tool designed to identify potential problems and guide decisions about seeking further evaluation or treatment. It is not a diagnostic instrument, and a healthcare professional should conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine whether you meet criteria for an alcohol use disorder.

Understanding Your Results

Your AUDIT score provides valuable information about your drinking patterns and their associated risks. The score places you into one of four risk categories, each corresponding to specific recommendations for action. Understanding what your score means and what steps to take next is essential for using the AUDIT effectively.

Score 0-7: Low Risk

A score in this range indicates that you are drinking within generally accepted low-risk guidelines or that you abstain from alcohol. You are not currently experiencing significant alcohol-related problems, and your drinking patterns do not suggest immediate cause for concern. However, this does not mean that alcohol is without risk for you personally, and it is important to remain aware of situations in which even low-risk drinking may be inappropriate.

Certain individuals should avoid alcohol entirely, regardless of their AUDIT score. This includes pregnant women or women trying to conceive, as no amount of alcohol has been proven safe during pregnancy. Individuals taking medications that interact with alcohol should abstain or consult with their healthcare provider about safe limits. People with certain medical conditions, including liver disease, pancreatitis, certain heart conditions, and some mental health disorders, may need to avoid alcohol completely. Those with a personal or family history of alcohol use disorders may be at higher risk of developing problems even with low-level consumption.

If your score is in the low-risk range, consider this an opportunity to maintain healthy drinking patterns. Be mindful of standard drink sizes, pace your drinking, alternate alcoholic beverages with water or other non-alcoholic drinks, and ensure you have alcohol-free days each week. Stay informed about low-risk drinking guidelines and be aware that these guidelines represent population-level recommendations; individual risk may vary based on personal factors.

Score 8-15: Hazardous Drinking

A score in this range indicates hazardous or risky drinking, meaning your current alcohol consumption patterns are increasing your risk of future harm even if you have not yet experienced serious problems. This is an important time to make changes, as research demonstrates that intervention at this stage can be highly effective at preventing progression to more severe alcohol use disorders.

Hazardous drinking increases your risk for numerous health problems, including liver disease, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, digestive problems, weakened immune system, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. It also increases risk of injuries, including motor vehicle accidents, falls, and violence. Even if you feel fine now and have not experienced obvious negative consequences, continuing to drink at hazardous levels significantly increases the likelihood of future problems.

Consider implementing strategies to reduce your alcohol consumption to low-risk levels. Set specific, measurable goals for yourself, such as limiting drinking to certain days of the week, setting a maximum number of drinks per occasion, or reducing the frequency of heavy drinking episodes. Keep track of your drinking using a journal or smartphone app to increase awareness of your actual consumption. Identify situations or emotions that trigger heavy drinking and develop alternative coping strategies.

Many people at this level benefit from brief counseling with a healthcare provider. Brief interventions, which typically involve one to four sessions focused on motivation and goal-setting, have been shown to help many individuals successfully reduce their drinking. Your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on your specific situation, help you set realistic goals, and provide follow-up support as you work to change your drinking patterns. Treatment resources are available through HVATC.com and Every1Center.com.

If you find it difficult to reduce your drinking despite genuine effort, this may indicate that your relationship with alcohol is more problematic than your score suggests. Do not hesitate to seek additional help. What starts as hazardous drinking can progress to dependence if not addressed, and early intervention is always preferable to waiting until problems become more severe.

Score 16-19: Harmful Drinking

A score in this range indicates harmful drinking, meaning that alcohol is already causing damage to your physical health, mental health, or social functioning. You may be experiencing health problems related to alcohol use, difficulties in relationships or at work due to drinking, or other negative consequences. At this level, professional guidance is strongly recommended, as self-directed change is often difficult without support.

Harmful drinking requires more intensive intervention than brief advice. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible for a comprehensive evaluation. They can assess the extent of alcohol-related harm, screen for medical complications that may require treatment, and recommend appropriate interventions. This may include referral to an addiction specialist, participation in a structured counseling program, or consideration of medications that can help reduce drinking.

Medical evaluation is particularly important at this level because harmful drinking can cause serious health problems that may not be immediately apparent. Liver damage, cardiovascular problems, nutritional deficiencies, and neurological complications can develop gradually and may be present even if you feel relatively well. Early detection and treatment of these conditions can prevent more serious complications and improve long-term health outcomes.

Treatment at this level often involves regular counseling sessions focused on understanding the factors that contribute to your drinking, developing skills to manage triggers and cravings, addressing co-occurring mental health issues, and building a support network for recovery. Many individuals benefit from participation in support groups where they can connect with others facing similar challenges. Resources such as LongIsland.Rehab and LongIslandAddictionResources.com can help you find appropriate treatment and support services.

Score 20+: Possible Alcohol Dependence

A score of twenty or above suggests possible alcohol dependence, a condition characterized by loss of control over drinking, physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, increased tolerance requiring more alcohol to achieve desired effects, and continued use despite harmful consequences. This level of severity typically requires comprehensive professional treatment and medical supervision.

If you score in this range, it is crucial to seek help immediately. Do not attempt to stop drinking abruptly without medical supervision, as alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures and delirium tremens, can occur in individuals with significant physical dependence. Medical detoxification in a supervised setting ensures safety and provides medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications. Learn more about safe detoxification on our alcohol detox page.

Following medical detoxification, most individuals with alcohol dependence benefit from participation in a rehabilitation program that addresses the multiple dimensions of addiction. Treatment typically includes individual counseling, group therapy, education about addiction and recovery, development of coping skills, and planning for ongoing support after completing the program. Programs may be inpatient (residential) or outpatient, depending on the severity of dependence, presence of co-occurring medical or mental health conditions, and individual circumstances. Our alcohol rehab page provides detailed information about different levels of care.

Recovery from alcohol dependence is a long-term process that extends well beyond initial treatment. Ongoing support through counseling, participation in support groups, and sometimes medication can help maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. Many people find that recovery involves not just stopping drinking but also making broader changes in lifestyle, relationships, stress management, and overall approach to life. Resources such as InterventionNY.com and IntegrityTreatmentPartners.com can connect you with comprehensive treatment services and ongoing support.

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

While the AUDIT provides valuable screening information, it is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation. Several situations warrant consultation with a healthcare provider regardless of your AUDIT score. Understanding when to seek professional help ensures that you receive appropriate care and support for your specific situation.

Immediate Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical care if you are experiencing symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including tremors, sweating, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, confusion, hallucinations, or seizures. These symptoms indicate physical dependence and require medical management to ensure safety. Do not attempt to manage severe withdrawal symptoms on your own, as complications can be life-threatening without proper medical intervention.

Emergency medical attention is also necessary if you have experienced an alcohol-related injury, alcohol poisoning, or if you have thoughts of harming yourself or others. Alcohol use can exacerbate mental health conditions and increase risk of suicide, particularly during periods of heavy drinking or withdrawal. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or go to your nearest emergency department immediately.

Routine Medical Consultation

Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if your AUDIT score is eight or above, even if you are not experiencing obvious problems. Early intervention can prevent progression to more severe alcohol use disorders and can address health issues before they become serious. Your provider can conduct a more comprehensive assessment, screen for alcohol-related health problems, and recommend appropriate interventions based on your individual circumstances.

Consultation is also appropriate if you are concerned about your drinking regardless of your AUDIT score. Some individuals experience problems related to alcohol use even with relatively low consumption, particularly those with certain medical conditions, those taking medications that interact with alcohol, or those with a history of alcohol use disorders. Your healthcare provider can help you determine whether your drinking is appropriate for your specific situation and can offer guidance on making changes if needed.

If you have tried to reduce or stop drinking on your own but have been unsuccessful, this indicates a need for professional support. Difficulty controlling alcohol use despite desire and effort to do so is a hallmark of alcohol dependence and suggests that additional help is necessary. Your healthcare provider can discuss treatment options, including counseling, medication, and referral to specialized addiction treatment programs.

Discussing AUDIT Results with Your Provider

When meeting with your healthcare provider to discuss your AUDIT results, be prepared to provide detailed information about your drinking patterns, including frequency, quantity, circumstances of drinking, and any problems you have experienced. Bring your completed AUDIT form if possible, as this provides a structured starting point for the conversation. Be honest about your alcohol use, as accurate information is essential for your provider to offer appropriate recommendations.

Your provider may ask additional questions to better understand your situation, including questions about your medical history, family history of alcohol use disorders, mental health, medications, and social circumstances. They may conduct a physical examination and order laboratory tests to screen for alcohol-related health problems. This comprehensive assessment helps determine the most appropriate course of action for your specific needs.

Do not feel embarrassed or ashamed about discussing alcohol use with your healthcare provider. Alcohol use disorders are medical conditions, not moral failings, and healthcare providers are trained to address these issues with compassion and without judgment. Many people struggle with alcohol use, and seeking help is a sign of strength and self-awareness, not weakness.

Next Steps After Taking the AUDIT

Completing the AUDIT is an important first step in understanding your relationship with alcohol, but it is what you do with that information that ultimately matters. Taking action based on your results can help prevent future problems, address current issues, and improve your overall health and well-being.

For Low-Risk Scores

If your score indicates low-risk drinking, use this as an opportunity to maintain healthy patterns. Review low-risk drinking guidelines and ensure you understand standard drink sizes. Be mindful of situations in which even low-risk drinking may be inappropriate, such as before driving, during pregnancy, when taking certain medications, or when you have certain medical conditions. Consider having regular alcohol-free days and be aware of how alcohol affects your sleep, mood, and overall health.

Even with a low-risk score, it is worth reflecting on why you drink and whether alcohol is serving a positive role in your life. Some people find that reducing or eliminating alcohol, even when consumption is within low-risk guidelines, improves their energy, sleep quality, mental clarity, and overall sense of well-being. There is no requirement to drink alcohol, and choosing to abstain is always a valid and healthy choice.

For Hazardous Drinking Scores

If your score indicates hazardous drinking, take action now to reduce your consumption before problems become more serious. Set specific goals for reducing your drinking, such as limiting the number of days per week you drink, setting a maximum number of drinks per occasion, or eliminating heavy drinking episodes. Track your progress and adjust your strategies as needed. Consider discussing your drinking with your healthcare provider, who can offer personalized advice and support.

Identify triggers that lead to heavy drinking and develop alternative coping strategies. If you drink to manage stress, explore other stress-reduction techniques such as exercise, meditation, or talking with a friend. If you drink in social situations, practice strategies for moderating consumption, such as alternating alcoholic drinks with water, eating before and during drinking, and planning how you will get home safely. If you drink out of boredom, find engaging activities that do not involve alcohol.

Many people find it helpful to enlist support from friends or family members as they work to change their drinking patterns. Let trusted individuals know about your goals and ask for their encouragement. Some people benefit from working with a counselor who specializes in alcohol use issues, even if they do not meet criteria for an alcohol use disorder. Brief counseling can provide motivation, accountability, and practical strategies for making lasting changes.

For Harmful Drinking or Dependence Scores

If your score indicates harmful drinking or possible dependence, seek professional help as soon as possible. Contact your healthcare provider to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and discuss treatment options. If you do not have a regular healthcare provider, call our helpline at (914) 594-5851 to be connected with treatment resources in your area. Do not delay seeking help, as alcohol-related problems typically worsen over time without intervention.

Be prepared for the possibility that changing your drinking may require more than willpower alone. Alcohol dependence involves changes in brain chemistry that make it difficult to control use despite desire and intention to do so. Professional treatment addresses these neurobiological changes along with the psychological, behavioral, and social factors that contribute to continued drinking. Treatment is effective, and many people achieve lasting recovery with appropriate support.

If you are concerned about the cost of treatment, know that many options are available. Most health insurance plans cover alcohol treatment services, and many treatment programs offer sliding scale fees based on ability to pay. Some programs accept Medicaid or offer charity care for individuals without insurance. Do not let financial concerns prevent you from seeking help; treatment providers can work with you to find affordable options. Resources such as our treatment options page provide information about accessing care.

Additional Resources

Learn more about alcohol use, treatment, and recovery:

• Understanding the AUDIT Test - Comprehensive information about AUDIT scoring and interpretation
• How to Stop Drinking - Evidence-based strategies for reducing or quitting alcohol
• Alcohol Withdrawal - Understanding withdrawal symptoms and timeline
• Medical Detox - Information about safe alcohol detoxification
• Alcohol Rehab - Comparing inpatient and outpatient treatment programs
• Treatment Options - Comprehensive guide to therapies and medications
• Getting Sober - Practical guidance for early recovery
• About Our Helpline - Learn about our confidential support services

External Resources

Additional information from trusted public health organizations:

• World Health Organization (WHO) - International health guidance and research
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Alcohol and public health information
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) - Research and education about alcohol
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - Treatment resources and support
• SAMHSA National Helpline - 1-800-662-4357 (free, confidential, 24/7)