ADHD Screening — Inattention, Hyperactivity & Impulsivity Assessment
This free ADHD test uses the ASRS v1.1 (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale), developed by the World Health Organization and validated for screening ADHD in adults. This 10-question screener assesses inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity symptoms to determine if you should seek professional ADHD evaluation.
Difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, disorganization
Restlessness, fidgeting, feeling driven by a motor
Acting without thinking, interrupting, impatience
Screening results + guidance on next steps
✓ WHO-validated ASRS screening tool
✓ Used by psychiatrists and psychologists worldwide
✓ Free guidance on how to get professionally tested for ADHD
The ASRS (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) v1.1 is a screening tool developed by the World Health Organization in conjunction with researchers. It's validated for detecting ADHD symptoms in adults and is widely used by psychiatrists, psychologists, and primary care physicians as a first-line screening instrument. The 6-question Part A screener (used in this test) has 68.7% sensitivity and 99.5% specificity for identifying adults who likely have ADHD and need comprehensive evaluation.
Common ADHD symptoms in adults:
Inattention: Difficulty focusing on tasks, easily distracted, trouble completing projects, forgetfulness, losing items frequently, poor time management, avoiding tasks requiring sustained mental effort, making careless mistakes.
Hyperactivity: Feeling restless, fidgeting or squirming, difficulty sitting still for long periods, feeling internally driven or "revved up," talking excessively, always "on the go."
Impulsivity: Interrupting others, difficulty waiting turns, making hasty decisions without thinking through consequences, impulsive spending, saying things without filtering.
This free ADHD screening test assesses these symptoms. If results suggest ADHD, seek professional diagnosis.
ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is an outdated term. The current medical diagnosis is ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) with three types:
1. ADHD Inattentive Type (previously called ADD):
Primarily inattention symptoms: difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, disorganization, easily distracted. Little to no hyperactivity. Common in adults, especially women. Often undiagnosed until adulthood.
2. ADHD Hyperactive-Impulsive Type:
Primarily hyperactivity and impulsivity: restlessness, fidgeting, impulsive decisions, difficulty sitting still. Little to no inattention. Less common in adults (hyperactivity often decreases with age).
3. ADHD Combined Type:
Both inattention AND hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms present. Most common presentation. Many adults with combined type had obvious symptoms as children but weren't diagnosed.
This free ADHD test online screens for symptoms of all three types.
Step 1: Take this free screening test
Complete the ASRS screening to assess whether your symptoms warrant professional evaluation.
Step 2: Document your symptoms
Keep a journal of ADHD symptoms: when they occur, how they affect your daily life, examples from childhood (ADHD must have been present before age 12 for diagnosis).
Step 3: Choose a healthcare provider
Options: Psychiatrist (can diagnose and prescribe medication), Psychologist (can diagnose, provide therapy), Primary Care Physician (can screen and refer), ADHD Specialist (most experienced). Search "ADHD testing near me" or "adult ADHD testing near me" to find local providers.
Step 4: Schedule comprehensive ADHD evaluation
Professional testing includes: Clinical interview about symptoms, medical and psychiatric history, ADHD rating scales (ASRS, Conners, Vanderbilt ADHD test, Brown), cognitive/neuropsychological testing for ADHD (optional), ruling out other conditions (depression, anxiety, thyroid, sleep disorders).
Step 5: Discuss treatment options if diagnosed
ADHD treatment options: Stimulant medications (methylphenidate, amphetamines - highly effective), Non-stimulant medications (atomoxetine, guanfacine), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT for ADHD), ADHD coaching, Lifestyle strategies (exercise, sleep, organization systems).
Cost and insurance: Many insurance plans cover ADHD evaluation. Costs vary: $100-500 for initial evaluation with psychiatrist/psychologist, $1000-3000 for comprehensive neuropsychological testing for ADHD (usually not required for diagnosis).
Why ADHD is often missed in adults:
• Hyperactivity decreases with age (adults may just feel restless internally)
• Inattentive type ADHD (especially in women) often goes unnoticed in childhood
• Adults develop coping mechanisms that mask symptoms
• ADHD symptoms attributed to personality, laziness, or lack of motivation
• Many adults diagnosed only when their children are diagnosed with ADHD
Impact of undiagnosed ADHD in adults:
• Chronic underachievement despite intelligence and potential
• Job difficulties: frequent job changes, procrastination, missed deadlines
• Relationship problems: forgetfulness, inattention, emotional dysregulation
• Financial issues: impulsive spending, disorganization, unpaid bills
• Low self-esteem from years of feeling "different" or "broken"
• Higher rates of anxiety and depression
Benefits of diagnosis in adulthood: Understanding that struggles are due to ADHD (not personal failure) can be life-changing. Treatment (medication, therapy, strategies) is highly effective. Many adults report dramatic improvement in work performance, relationships, and quality of life after diagnosis and treatment. Taking this free ADHD test for adults is the first step toward getting help.
Gender differences in ADHD:
Women with ADHD:
• More likely to have inattentive type (not hyperactive)
• Symptoms may be less obvious, leading to underdiagnosis
• Often diagnosed later in life (30s-40s)
• More internalized symptoms: daydreaming, mental restlessness, anxiety
• Better at masking symptoms through compensatory strategies
• Hormonal changes (menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause) can affect symptoms
Men with ADHD:
• More likely to have hyperactive-impulsive or combined type
• More externalized symptoms: physical restlessness, impulsivity
• More likely to be diagnosed in childhood
• Higher rates of risky behavior and legal problems
Both genders benefit equally from treatment, but women may need to advocate for evaluation if their symptoms don't match the stereotypical "hyperactive boy" presentation. This online ADHD test is designed for both men and women.
ADHD symptoms in adults include: difficulty focusing or completing tasks, chronic disorganization, forgetfulness (missing appointments, losing items), trouble managing time, chronic lateness, procrastination, restlessness or internal fidgeting, impulsivity (interrupting, hasty decisions), difficulty sustaining attention in conversations or meetings, and emotional dysregulation. This free ADHD test online assesses these symptoms. However, only a healthcare professional can diagnose ADHD through comprehensive evaluation including medical history, symptom assessment since childhood (ADHD must have been present before age 12), ruling out other conditions, and sometimes neuropsychological testing for ADHD.
Yes! Our ADHD test for adults is 100% free with no hidden costs, no sign-up, and no email required. This is the WHO-validated ASRS screening tool used by healthcare professionals. You'll get instant results with personalized recommendations and guidance on how to get professionally tested for ADHD if your screening suggests you should pursue comprehensive evaluation. This free ADHD test online is accessible anytime, anywhere.
To get professionally tested for ADHD: 1) Start with this free online ADHD screening test (ASRS) to assess symptoms, 2) Document your symptoms and examples from childhood (ADHD must have onset before age 12), 3) Search "ADHD testing near me" or "adult ADHD testing near me" to find local providers, 4) Talk to your primary care doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist about your screening results, 5) Request comprehensive ADHD evaluation which includes: clinical interview, ADHD rating scales (ASRS, Vanderbilt ADHD test, Conners), medical and psychiatric history review, ruling out other conditions, and sometimes neuropsych testing for ADHD, 6) If diagnosed, discuss treatment options including ADHD meds (stimulants like Adderall/Ritalin, non-stimulants like Strattera), therapy (CBT for ADHD), and ADHD coaching.
No. The ASRS is a validated screening tool that identifies ADHD symptoms requiring professional evaluation, not a diagnostic test. Only a licensed healthcare professional (psychiatrist, psychologist, or physician trained in ADHD) can diagnose ADHD through comprehensive clinical assessment. The diagnostic process involves detailed clinical interview, rating scales, medical history, childhood symptom history, ruling out other conditions, and functional impairment assessment. This free ADHD test helps you understand whether your symptoms warrant professional ADHD testing near me or with a specialist.
ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is an outdated term no longer used in medical diagnosis. The current official diagnosis is ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) with three types:
1) ADHD Inattentive Type (what used to be called ADD): Primarily difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, disorganization, and distractibility. Little to no hyperactivity or impulsivity. Very common in adults, especially women. Often goes undiagnosed.
2) ADHD Hyperactive-Impulsive Type: Primarily restlessness, fidgeting, impulsivity, and difficulty sitting still. Little to no inattention. Less common in adults as hyperactivity often decreases with age.
3) ADHD Combined Type: Both inattention AND hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms. Most common overall presentation.
This free ADHD test online screens for symptoms of all three types.
This ADHD test (ASRS v1.1) is specifically designed and validated for adults age 18 and older. ADHD assessment for children and adolescents requires different screening tools (like the Vanderbilt ADHD test for kids), rating scales, parent/teacher input, and should be conducted by a pediatrician, child psychiatrist, or child psychologist. If you're concerned your child may have ADHD, consult their pediatrician for appropriate childhood ADHD screening and evaluation. For adults, this free ADHD test online is the ideal first step.
The ASRS v1.1 Part A (6-question screener used in this free ADHD test) is highly validated with 68.7% sensitivity and 99.5% specificity for ADHD in adults. This means it correctly identifies most adults with ADHD (sensitivity) and rarely misidentifies adults without ADHD (specificity). It's widely used by healthcare professionals worldwide and has been validated across diverse populations. However, it's a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. Professional diagnosis involves comprehensive assessment beyond screening, often including neuropsychological testing for ADHD.
The three official ADHD types are:
1. ADHD Inattentive Type (Predominantly Inattentive):
Primary symptoms: Difficulty sustaining attention, easily distracted, forgetfulness, disorganization, losing items, avoiding tasks requiring sustained mental effort, not following through on instructions, making careless mistakes. Minimal hyperactivity or impulsivity. Previously called "ADD." Common in adults, especially women. Often goes undiagnosed until adulthood.
2. ADHD Hyperactive-Impulsive Type (Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive):
Primary symptoms: Fidgeting, inability to sit still, feeling driven by a motor, talking excessively, interrupting others, difficulty waiting turns, acting without thinking. Minimal inattention problems. Less common in adults as hyperactivity often becomes internalized restlessness.
3. ADHD Combined Type:
Both significant inattention AND hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms present. Most common presentation overall. Symptoms from both categories cause impairment.
This free ADHD test for adults screens for symptoms across all three types. Professional evaluation determines which type you have if diagnosed.
If your screening suggests ADHD likelihood:
Immediate steps:
• Use our free AI therapist to discuss ADHD symptoms and coping strategies
• Document your symptoms with specific examples (work, relationships, daily life)
• Recall childhood symptoms (ADHD must have been present before age 12 for diagnosis)
• Research ADHD to better understand the condition
Seek professional evaluation:
• Search "ADHD testing near me" or "adult ADHD testing near me" to find providers
• Schedule appointment with psychiatrist, psychologist, or ADHD specialist
• Bring your screening results and symptom documentation
• Request comprehensive ADHD assessment (may include neuropsych testing for ADHD)
• Ask about treatment options if diagnosed
Treatment options if diagnosed:
• Medication: ADHD meds like stimulants (methylphenidate/Ritalin, amphetamines/Adderall) are highly effective for most adults; Non-stimulants (atomoxetine/Strattera, guanfacine) for those who can't tolerate stimulants
• Therapy: CBT for ADHD, ADHD coaching, skills training
• Lifestyle: Exercise, sleep hygiene, organizational systems, time management strategies
• Accommodations: Workplace/school accommodations under ADA if needed
By diagnostic criteria, ADHD must have onset before age 12 (symptoms present in childhood). However, many adults weren't diagnosed as children for various reasons:
• Inattentive type ADHD (especially in girls/women) often goes unnoticed
• High intelligence can mask symptoms in childhood
• Supportive/structured environments in childhood may have compensated for ADHD
• Hyperactivity decreases with age, making adult ADHD less obvious
If you don't recall childhood symptoms but have significant attention/focus problems as an adult, other conditions could be responsible (depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, thyroid problems, medication side effects). Professional evaluation can determine the cause. Some adults are diagnosed with ADHD after childhood records or parent interviews reveal symptoms they didn't recognize at the time. This free ADHD test online is a good starting point for understanding your symptoms.