Autism Screening Tests
Take these scientifically validated autism screening tests to better understand your traits. Note that these are screening tools, not diagnostic tools.
RAADS-R
An 80-question self-rating scale of autistic traits for adults. Takes about 15-20 minutes to complete.
80 questions • 15-20 minutes
AQ-10
A brief 10-question screening tool that takes only 2-3 minutes to complete.
10 questions • 2-3 minutes
Important Disclaimer
This screening tool is not a diagnostic tool. A high score does not mean you have autism, and a low score does not mean you don't. These tests are designed as screening tools to identify individuals who may benefit from a comprehensive diagnostic assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person perceives and socializes with others, leading to challenges in social communication and interaction.
Autism is a spectrum condition, meaning it affects people in different ways and to varying degrees. Some autistic individuals may live independently, while others may need substantial support with daily activities. The spectrum includes what was previously diagnosed as separate conditions: autism, Asperger's syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).
According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States has been identified with ASD. It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, and is about 4 times more common among boys than girls. Autism is a lifelong condition, but early intervention and appropriate support can significantly improve quality of life.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Autism
Autism affects individuals differently, but certain patterns of behavior are common across the autism spectrum.
Social Interaction
- Difficulty making and maintaining eye contact
- Challenges understanding social cues and body language
- Preference for solitary activities over group interactions
- Difficulty forming and maintaining friendships
- Limited understanding of personal space
- Challenges with understanding others' perspectives
- Literal interpretation of language and difficulty with sarcasm
- Appearing aloof or disinterested in others
Communication Patterns
- Delayed speech and language development
- Unusual tone, pitch, or rhythm when speaking
- Repetitive use of phrases or sentences
- Difficulty starting or maintaining conversations
- Challenges understanding jokes, idioms, or abstract concepts
- Preferring written over verbal communication
- Difficulty expressing emotions or needs
- Taking things literally without understanding implied meaning
Behavioral Patterns
- Repetitive movements (hand flapping, rocking, spinning)
- Strong need for sameness and resistance to change
- Intense, focused interests in specific topics
- Unusual reactions to sensory experiences (sounds, textures, lights)
- Strict adherence to routines and rituals
- Difficulty with transitions between activities
- Collecting or organizing objects in specific ways
- High attention to detail but difficulty seeing the big picture
Who Should Take an Autism Screening Test?
While autism screening tests are not diagnostic tools, they can be helpful for individuals who suspect they might be autistic or want to better understand their traits. Consider taking a screening test if you:
- Have always felt "different" from peers but couldn't explain why
- Experience significant challenges in social situations despite wanting to connect with others
- Have intense, focused interests that others find unusual
- Are highly sensitive to sensory input (sounds, lights, textures, smells)
- Prefer predictable routines and become distressed by unexpected changes
- Find it difficult to understand unwritten social rules and expectations
- Have been told you communicate in an unusual or direct manner
- Experience mental health challenges (anxiety, depression) that may be related to undiagnosed autism
- Have family members who are autistic or have autistic traits
- Are a woman or gender-diverse person who has been overlooked for assessment (autism often presents differently in these populations)
Note: These screening tools are particularly valuable for adults who may have gone undiagnosed in childhood, especially those who learned to mask their autistic traits. However, remember that only a qualified healthcare professional can provide an autism diagnosis.
RAADS-R vs AQ-10: Choosing the Right Test
We offer two scientifically validated autism screening tests. Each has different strengths and is suited for different purposes:
RAADS-R (Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised)
A comprehensive 80-question assessment that evaluates autism traits across four domains: language, social relatedness, sensory-motor, and circumscribed interests. Developed by Dr. Riva Ariella Ritvo and colleagues, it's specifically designed to identify adults on the autism spectrum.
Best for: Adults seeking a thorough evaluation of autistic traits across multiple areas of functioning
Duration: 15-20 minutes
AQ-10 (Autism Spectrum Quotient-10)
A brief 10-question screening tool that provides a quick initial assessment. The AQ-10 is a shortened version of the full 50-question Autism Spectrum Quotient developed by Simon Baron-Cohen and colleagues at the Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge.
Best for: Quick screening for individuals who want an initial indication before pursuing more comprehensive assessment
Duration: 2-3 minutes
How to Interpret Your Test Results
Understanding your screening test results is an important first step, but it's crucial to interpret them correctly and know what to do next.
Important: Online screening tests are NOT diagnostic tools. A high score does not mean you have autism, and a low score does not mean you don't. These tests identify traits commonly associated with autism but cannot provide a clinical diagnosis.
Review your score in context
For RAADS-R, scores above 65 suggest significant autistic traits. For AQ-10, a score of 6 or higher indicates traits commonly associated with autism. However, these are guidelines, not definitive diagnoses.
Consider your lived experience
Reflect on whether the questions resonated with your day-to-day challenges and experiences. The subjective experience of autism is just as important as quantitative scores.
Understand test limitations
These tests measure self-reported traits and may not capture the full picture. Factors like mental health conditions, cultural background, and gender can affect how autism presents and how individuals respond to questions.
Seek professional guidance
If your results indicate significant autistic traits and resonate with your experiences, consider consulting a healthcare professional who specializes in autism assessment for adults.
Next Steps After Taking the Test
Based on your test results, here are recommended actions to take:
Consult with a Healthcare Professional
If your results indicate significant autistic traits, schedule an appointment with a psychologist, psychiatrist, or specialist who has experience in adult autism diagnosis. Bring your test results to share during the consultation.
Pursue Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment
A full autism assessment typically includes detailed developmental history, standardized testing, observation, and sometimes input from family members. The process may take several sessions.
Connect with the Autism Community
Many autistic adults find value in connecting with others who share similar experiences. Online and local support groups can provide community, understanding, and practical strategies.
Learn About Autism from Autistic Perspectives
Read books, articles, and blogs by autistic authors. Understanding autism from those who live it can provide valuable insights and help you recognize your own experiences.
Consider Your Support Needs
Whether or not you pursue formal diagnosis, reflect on areas where you might benefit from support or accommodations—at work, in relationships, or in daily life.
The Autism Diagnostic Process
If you decide to pursue a formal autism diagnosis, understanding the process can help you prepare:
Find a Qualified Professional
Look for psychologists, psychiatrists, or developmental specialists with specific training and experience in adult autism assessment. Ask about their assessment tools and approach.
Initial Consultation
The first appointment typically involves discussing your concerns, your developmental history, and current challenges. Be prepared to describe specific examples of traits and difficulties.
Comprehensive Assessment
This may include standardized diagnostic instruments (like ADOS-2 or ADI-R), cognitive testing, questionnaires for you and possibly family members, and clinical observation.
Developmental History
The clinician will gather information about your childhood development. If possible, input from parents or early caregivers can be helpful, though it's not always necessary for adult diagnosis.
Differential Diagnosis
The professional will consider other conditions that might explain your traits, such as ADHD, social anxiety, or learning disabilities. Many of these can co-occur with autism.
Results and Recommendations
You'll receive a detailed report with findings, diagnosis (if applicable), and recommendations for support, accommodations, or interventions that might be helpful.
The diagnostic process can take weeks to months and may be costly. However, many find that a formal diagnosis helps them understand themselves better, access support services, and receive accommodations in educational or workplace settings.
Resources and Support Networks
Whether you're newly discovering autism in yourself or supporting someone who is autistic, these organizations offer valuable information and community:
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
Led by and for autistic people, ASAN provides advocacy, resources, and community from an autistic perspective.
Autism Society
Offers resources, support groups, and information for autistic individuals and their families across the United States.
National Autistic Society (UK)
Provides information, support, and advocacy for autistic people in the UK and their families.
Autism Research Institute
Focuses on research, education, and providing evidence-based information about autism.
AANE (Asperger/Autism Network)
Specializes in supporting autistic adults, with programs, resources, and community connections.
Autism Women's Network
Dedicated to supporting autistic women, girls, and non-binary individuals.
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