What is the AUDIT test? Check your drinking in 10 questions
AUDIT stands for the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. It's a 10-question check developed by the World Health Organization, and it's the standard tool GPs and UK alcohol services use to see whether someone's drinking is putting their health at risk. The UK version asks about your drinking in units. (GOV.UK)
What the questions cover
The questions fall into three areas: how often and how much you drink, signs that you might be becoming dependent, and problems your drinking may be causing. (Drinkaware)
There is also a shorter version, AUDIT-C, made up of the first three questions on how much you drink. A score of 5 or more on AUDIT-C is the point at which the full 10 questions are recommended.
What your score means
Each answer scores between 0 and 4, giving a total out of 40. The UK uses four bands:
- 0 to 7: lower risk
- 8 to 15: increasing risk
- 16 to 19: higher risk
- 20 or more: possible dependence
AUDIT is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. A score of 8 to 15 usually means cutting back is worth doing, and practical strategies are often all it takes. If you score 16 or more, speak to your GP or a local alcohol service such as WithYou before changing how much you drink.
Where to take the test
Drinkaware's free Drinking Check is based on AUDIT and takes two to three minutes online. The official form is also published on GOV.UK if you'd rather score it yourself.
To see how your weekly units compare with the guidelines, read UK alcohol guidelines explained.
Want to talk through your results?
Alastair is happy to talk through your score and what it means for you. Email hello@cutbackdrinking.com, call 020 3916 5869 or WhatsApp 07719 513014. Everything you share is kept confidential.