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Free autism test · AQ-10 · Private result

Free autism test for adults

A 10-question AQ-10 screening questionnaire for adults who are wondering, 'am I autistic?' Get an instant private score and clear UK next steps.

Private

Runs in your browser. Your answers are not sent to us or saved.

2 minutes

Ten short questions with an instant score on screen.

AQ-10 based

A recognised screening scale for autistic traits in adults.

What this adult autism test measures

This free autism test is based on the AQ-10, a short screening tool used to look for traits associated with autism spectrum conditions in adults. It asks about sensory sensitivity, social communication, reading other people, switching attention, attention to detail and focused interests.

It is not a diagnosis and it cannot tell you for certain whether you are autistic. It can help you decide whether your experiences are worth exploring through a full adult autism assessment, especially if you have spent years masking, feeling socially exhausted, or wondering why everyday situations seem harder than they do for other people.

Please answer based on your usual life, not just a difficult week. Choose the option that feels most accurate overall.
Progress0/10
Q1 · Sensory sensitivity

I often notice small sounds when others do not.

Q2 · Attention to detail

I usually concentrate more on the whole picture, rather than the small details.

Q3 · Switching attention

I find it easy to do more than one thing at once.

Q4 · Task switching

If there is an interruption, I can switch back to what I was doing very quickly.

Q5 · Social communication

I find it easy to read between the lines when someone is talking to me.

Q6 · Social cues

I know how to tell if someone listening to me is getting bored.

Q7 · Social imagination

When I am reading a story, I find it difficult to work out the characters' intentions.

Q8 · Focused interests

I like to collect information about categories of things, such as types of car, bird, train or plant.

Q9 · Reading facial expression

I find it easy to work out what someone is thinking or feeling just by looking at their face.

Q10 · Social understanding

I find it difficult to work out people's intentions.

Signs of autism in adults

  • · Feeling drained after social situations, even when they go well.
  • · Taking language literally or finding indirect hints confusing.
  • · Strong need for routine, predictability or time to prepare.
  • · Sensory sensitivity to sound, light, smell, texture or busy places.
  • · Deep interests that are calming, absorbing or unusually detailed.
  • · Masking traits in public and feeling exhausted afterwards.

Autism and ADHD can overlap

Some adults are exploring autism after an ADHD diagnosis, while others take both tests because their experiences do not fit one neat label. ADHD is more linked with attention regulation, impulsivity and restlessness. Autism is more linked with social communication differences, sensory processing, routines and focused interests. Many people experience both.

Take the ADHD test

How to get tested for autism as an adult in the UK

A formal adult autism assessment usually includes a clinical interview, developmental history, examples from everyday life, and a review of other explanations that can look similar. The aim is not just to produce a label, but to understand your profile and what support, adjustments or onward care may be appropriate.

  1. 1Start with screeningUse the AQ-10 result as a prompt, not a diagnosis. Note examples from childhood, education, work, relationships and sensory life.
  2. 2Discuss assessment optionsYou can speak to your GP about local pathways, or consider a private adult autism assessment if waiting times are difficult.
  3. 3Review the outcomeA clinician should explain whether autism is confirmed, what else may be relevant, and what practical next steps could help.

A screening score is only one part of the picture

A high AQ-10 score can reflect autistic traits, but anxiety, trauma, burnout, sensory differences, ADHD or long-term stress can also affect how people answer. A low score can miss people who have learned to mask. If your difficulties are affecting daily life, the safest next step is a full clinical assessment.

Frequently asked questions

Is this autism test free?

Yes. The adult autism screening questionnaire is free, gives an instant on-screen result, and does not ask for your name, email address or payment details.

Can an online autism test diagnose autism?

No. An online autism test can only indicate whether autistic traits may be present. A diagnosis requires a full autism assessment with a suitably qualified clinician, including developmental history and clinical interview.

What is the AQ-10 autism test?

The AQ-10 is a short 10-question version of the Autism Spectrum Quotient. It is commonly used as a screening tool to help decide whether a fuller autism assessment may be appropriate.

What score suggests autism traits may be present?

A score of 6 or more out of 10 is usually treated as a positive AQ-10 screen. It does not confirm autism, but it suggests that a formal assessment may be worth considering.

Does a low score rule out autism?

No. Some autistic adults score below the threshold, especially if they mask, have learned coping strategies, or find the questions do not reflect their life well. If you still recognise autistic traits, a professional conversation can still be useful.

Can autism and ADHD overlap?

Yes. Many adults have overlapping autism and ADHD traits, such as sensory sensitivity, emotional overwhelm, executive function difficulties or social exhaustion. The conditions are different, but they can occur together.

How do I get tested for autism as an adult in the UK?

You can speak to your GP about NHS referral options or arrange a private adult autism assessment. A proper assessment looks at childhood history, current traits, daily-life impact and whether another explanation fits better.

Is my answer data stored?

No. The questionnaire runs in your browser. Your answers are not sent to ADHD Active and are not saved anywhere.

Where to go next

Free consultationTalk through your result and what an assessment could involve.Free ADHD testA separate adult ADHD screening if attention symptoms overlap.Adult ADHD assessmentHow a full ADHD assessment works at ADHD Active.UK assessment locationsSee online private assessment information for your area.

Reference: S. Baron-Cohen, S. Wheelwright, R. Skinner, J. Martin and E. Clubley (2001), The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ): Evidence from Asperger Syndrome/High Functioning Autism, Males and Females, Scientists and Mathematicians. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders 31:5-17.