Substance Use
Fagerström Nicotine Dependence
6-item nicotine dependence test.
The Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence is a six-item questionnaire developed by Karl-Olov Fagerström and colleagues. It scores how physically dependent you are on cigarettes from 0 to 10. It does not measure how much harm smoking has already caused your body; it helps estimate how strong the quit support you may need is likely to be.
- How soon after waking do you smoke your first cigarette? (Within 5 min, 6-30 min, 31-60 min, After 60 min)
- Do you find it hard to refrain from smoking where it is forbidden?
- Which cigarette would you hate most to give up? (The first one in the morning, Any other)
- How many cigarettes per day? (1-10, 11-20, 21-30, 31+)
- Do you smoke more frequently in the morning?
- Do you smoke even when ill?
What your score means
0-2 — Very low dependence. Quitting now should be relatively manageable for most people.
3-4 — Low dependence. Some behavioural support, such as a quit plan or counselling, can make stopping easier.
5 — Moderate dependence. Consider speaking with a doctor and using a quit-line or support group.
6-7 — High dependence. Nicotine replacement therapy (patch or gum) alongside counselling is often helpful.
8-10 — Very high dependence. Strong dependence. Ask a doctor about cessation support and whether nicotine replacement or other treatment is appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
Does this test tell me if smoking has damaged my lungs?
No. It only measures dependence — how strongly your body is attached to nicotine. Damage to lungs, heart or blood vessels needs separate clinical checks.
What help is available to quit?
Counselling, quit-lines and nicotine replacement therapy are all worth asking a doctor about. The right support depends on your score and your preferences.
Are my answers stored?
They stay in your browser unless you sign in and choose to save the result to your account.