Substance Use
AUDIT-C Alcohol Screening
3-question WHO-validated alcohol use screening.
AUDIT-C is the three-question consumption short form of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, which was developed for the World Health Organization. It asks how often you drink, how much you drink on a typical day, and how often you drink heavily on one occasion. Cut-offs differ for men and women, and the result indicates a risky drinking pattern rather than diagnosing a disorder.
- How often do you have a drink containing alcohol? (Never, Monthly or less, 2-4 times a month, 2-3 times a week, 4+ times a week)
- How many drinks on a typical day when drinking? (1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-9, 10+)
- How often do you have 5 or more drinks on one occasion? (Never, Less than monthly, Monthly, Weekly, Daily or almost daily)
- Sex (for adjusted cutoff) (Male, Female)
What your score means
0 — No alcohol use. You reported never drinking, no drinks on a typical day and no heavy occasions.
Men 0-3 / Women 0-2 — Low risk. Your reported drinking pattern falls below the usual screening cut-off.
Men 4-7 / Women 3-5 — Hazardous use. Above the screening cut-off. Cutting back is likely to reduce health risk.
Men 8-12 / Women 6-12 — Harmful use. A pattern associated with substantial harm. Speaking with a doctor is recommended.
Frequently asked questions
Why are the cut-offs different for men and women?
Body composition and alcohol metabolism differ, so the same intake carries more risk for women. The screening thresholds reflect that.
Does a positive screen mean I am dependent on alcohol?
No. AUDIT-C flags a drinking pattern that raises risk. Dependence is a clinical diagnosis that needs a proper assessment.
How often should I retake this?
Every few months, or whenever your drinking pattern changes noticeably.
Are my answers stored?
They stay in your browser unless you sign in and choose to save the result to your account.