Free RAADS-R Autism TestOnline Self-Assessment ToolBased on Ritvo et al. Clinical Research
Based on Ritvo et al. (2011) peer-reviewed research. Published in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. PubMed
This test is a screening tool and not a diagnostic instrument. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for a formal evaluation.
Last updated: • Score ranges informed by a 2025 NovoPsych technical analysis (Hegarty et al.)
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Meaning of RAADS-R Scores
Score ranges draw on the original RAADS-R validation study (Ritvo et al., 2011) and a 2025 NovoPsych technical analysis. The RAADS-R is a screening tool and cannot diagnose autism.
0-64: Below Threshold
Scores below 65 are below the original RAADS-R research threshold and are associated with a lower likelihood of autism based on the available research. A score below this threshold does not rule out autism, particularly when clinical history or other information raises concern.
65-105: Gray Zone
A gray zone. Scores in this range may reflect autistic traits, but can also be associated with ADHD, anxiety, depression or trauma-related experiences. A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified professional can help clarify what is contributing to the score.
106-139: Elevated Autistic Traits
RAADS-R results in this range are associated with elevated autistic traits and may warrant comprehensive assessment. In a 2025 NovoPsych technical analysis, this range showed approximately 81% specificity when evaluated against AQ-based criteria, which is psychometric data rather than evidence of a diagnosis. The RAADS-R on its own cannot diagnose autism.
140+: Pronounced Traits
Higher RAADS-R scores indicate greater endorsement of autistic traits. A high score may provide a reason to pursue a comprehensive autism evaluation, but it is not diagnostic and should be interpreted in the context of developmental history, clinical interview, and other relevant information.
Maximum Score: 240
The absolute maximum score attainable on the RAADS-R scale. Each of the 80 questions can score 0-3 points.
RAADS-R Research and Limitations
This test uses the RAADS-R, published in 2011 after a validation study of 779 adults (201 autistic, 578 comparison) at nine centers. In that sample the 65 cutoff showed 97% sensitivity and 100% specificity; later studies in clinical populations found many more false positives, so a score is not a diagnosis.
📚 Ritvo, R.A., et al. (2011). The Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised (RAADS-R): A Scale to Assist the Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adults: An International Validation Study. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 41(8), 1076-1089.
📚 Hegarty, D., Buchanan, B., & Baker, S. (2025). A Review of the Clinical Utility and Psychometric Properties of the Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale – Revised (RAADS-R): Updated Clinical Thresholds. NovoPsych technical report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the RAADS-R assessment
What is the RAADS-R test?
The RAADS-R (Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised) is a self-report questionnaire designed to help assess the presence of autistic traits in adults. It serves as a comprehensive screening tool for autism spectrum characteristics.
How accurate is the RAADS-R test?
In the original RAADS-R validation study (Ritvo et al., 2011), a score of 65 or above showed high sensitivity and specificity in that study sample. Subsequent research in clinical populations has found substantially more false-positive results, so these figures should not be interpreted as the likelihood that an individual user has or does not have autism. Scores below 65 are associated with a lower likelihood of autism but do not rule it out, and scores between 65 and 105 overlap with ADHD, anxiety and other conditions. A 2025 NovoPsych technical analysis reported approximately 81% specificity for scores of 106 and above when evaluated against AQ-based criteria, which is psychometric data rather than diagnostic evidence. Only a qualified professional can diagnose autism.
Is the RAADS-R test reliable?
The RAADS-R is one of the more widely researched self-report screening questionnaires for autistic traits in adults. In its original validation study it showed high sensitivity and specificity in that study sample, along with good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Subsequent research in clinical populations has found substantially more false-positive results, so a score should be read as an indication of traits, not a diagnosis. Scores in the 65-105 range in particular need careful professional interpretation to distinguish autism from other conditions.
How to take the RAADS-R test?
The RAADS-R test is typically a self-report questionnaire. It can be administered online or in a paper format. To take the test, one can follow the instructions provided with the questionnaire.
Is the RAADS test accurate and reliable?
Similar to the RAADS-R, the accuracy and reliability of the RAADS test may vary. Consulting with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation is recommended.
How to interpret RAADS-R test results?
Interpretation of RAADS-R test results should be done cautiously. It is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough analysis and interpretation.
Is the RAADS-R autism test accurate?
The accuracy of the RAADS-R autism test can vary. While it can be a useful screening tool, a definitive diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional.
Is there a RAADS-R test for ADHD?
The RAADS-R is primarily designed for assessing autistic traits and is not specifically tailored for ADHD. Different assessments are available for ADHD diagnosis, and consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended.
How long is the RAADS test, and how many questions are on it?
The RAADS-R test typically takes 20-30 minutes to complete. It includes a comprehensive set of questions designed to assess various aspects of autistic traits. It's important to answer all questions thoughtfully for the most accurate results.
Where can I take the RAADS-R test online?
The RAADS-R test is available online on our website and others. It is essential to ensure that the platform is reputable and that results are interpreted by a healthcare professional for accuracy.
Is the RAADS-R test free?
Yes! The RAADS-R test is completely free on our website. While some platforms may charge for access, we believe in making this screening tool accessible to everyone who needs it.
How to read RAADS-R test results?
Reading RAADS-R test results requires careful interpretation. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is recommended for a comprehensive understanding of the results.
How to score the RAADS-R paper test?
Scoring the RAADS-R paper test involves following the scoring guidelines provided with the questionnaire. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate interpretation.
What does my RAADS-R score actually mean?
Your RAADS-R score reflects how strongly you endorsed autistic traits; it is not a diagnosis. As a general guide: 0-64 is below the original research threshold and associated with a lower likelihood of autism, but does not rule autism out; 65-105 is a gray zone that can also reflect ADHD, anxiety or other conditions; 106-139 is associated with elevated autistic traits and may warrant comprehensive assessment; and 140+ indicates greater endorsement of autistic traits. Any of these results is best interpreted with a qualified professional.
Can the RAADS-R test detect ADHD or other conditions?
The RAADS-R is specifically designed to assess autism spectrum traits, not ADHD. A 2025 NovoPsych technical analysis noted that scores in the 65-105 range have lower specificity, because the traits measured can overlap with ADHD, anxiety disorders or trauma-related conditions. If you score in this range, a professional evaluation can help differentiate between autism and other conditions.
Can I get a false positive on the RAADS-R test?
Yes. False positives are possible at every score level. Subsequent research in clinical populations has found substantially more false-positive results than the original validation study, particularly in the 65-105 range, where elevated scores may reflect ADHD, anxiety, depression or trauma rather than autism. Even high scores are not diagnostic and should be interpreted alongside developmental history and a clinical interview.
What's the difference between RAADS-R and the AQ (Autism Quotient) test?
Both are research-based autism screening questionnaires, but they differ significantly. The RAADS-R has 80 questions with a unique 4-point scale asking about traits 'now' versus 'when younger', providing developmental context; in its original validation study it showed high sensitivity in that study sample. The AQ has 50 questions with simpler agree/disagree responses. The RAADS-R provides dimensional scores across four domains, while the AQ gives a single total.
Why might my RAADS-R score be higher than expected?
Several factors can contribute to elevated scores: (1) You may have undiagnosed autism - many adults are identified later in life. (2) Overlapping conditions like ADHD, social anxiety, or trauma can elevate scores, particularly in the 65-105 range. (3) Current mental health status affects responses. (4) High self-awareness may lead to more 'symptomatic' responses. Consider discussing results with a professional.
Is the RAADS-R test accurate for women and those who mask autism traits?
The RAADS-R was not developed specifically for women, but its 'now vs. when younger' question format can help bring out traits that people have learned to mask, a pattern more commonly reported in women. Highly effective maskers may still score lower than their experience or in the 65-105 range, and a professional evaluation can help.
What is the recommended RAADS-R cutoff score for autism?
The original 2011 study used a cutoff of 65. A 2025 NovoPsych technical analysis proposed updated interpretive ranges for clinical use: below 65 (below the original threshold and associated with a lower likelihood of autism, but not ruling it out), 65-105 (a gray zone), 106-139 and 140+. In that analysis, the 106+ thresholds showed approximately 81% specificity when evaluated against AQ-based criteria. These ranges are psychometric guidance, not diagnostic cut-offs.
Can anxiety, depression, or trauma affect my RAADS-R score?
Yes, mental health conditions can influence scores. Research, including a 2025 NovoPsych technical analysis, suggests that scores in the 65-105 range may reflect anxiety disorders, depression or trauma-related conditions rather than (or in addition to) autism. Social anxiety can cause difficulties similar to autistic traits; trauma can affect sensory processing. If you have a history of these conditions, a professional can help determine the best explanation for your experiences.
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