Person completing the CAGE alcohol questionnaire, AUDIT-C test, CRAFFT, and TICS, on a tablet

Scoring & Interpretation (CRAFFT)

  • Score = number of “Yes” answers (0–6).
  • 0: Low immediate indication; continue routine monitoring.
  • 1: Offer brief advice and schedule follow-up.
  • ≥2: Positive screen — arrange a full substance-use assessment and brief intervention.

CRAFFT Questions

Answer honestly for the past 12 months. This is a screening tool only.

In the past 12 months, have you used alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs (not counting a few sips)?

If No → low immediate risk; you may stop here. If Yes → complete the six CRAFFT questions below.

C — Have you ever ridden in a CAR driven by someone (including yourself) who was high or had been using alcohol or drugs?
R — Do you ever use alcohol or drugs to RELAX, feel better about yourself, or fit in?
A — Do you ever use alcohol or drugs while you are by yourself, ALONE?
F — Do you ever FORGET things you did while using alcohol or drugs?
F — Do your FAMILY or FRIENDS ever tell you that you should cut down on your drinking or drug use?
T — Have you ever gotten into TROUBLE while you were using alcohol or drugs?
Safety: If the adolescent shows signs of severe intoxication, withdrawal, or expresses self-harm thoughts, call emergency services immediately.

Hakron Specialist Care Center

CRAFFT Screening Test

CRAFFT Screening Test offers clinicians a fast, validated way to detect risky alcohol and drug use in adolescents. In other words, CRAFFT screens adolescents for problematic alcohol and drug use. This tool has become a significant instrument for effective drug rehab program. Complete the prescreen and, if needed, answer six CRAFFT items. The tool flags youth who need full assessment.

How CRAFFT WORKS

First, ask the prescreen question about past-year substance use. Next, if the youth reports any use, ask the six CRAFFT items (Car, Relax, Alone, Forget, Family/Friends, Trouble). Then sum the “Yes” responses. Finally, use the score to guide follow-up.

Safety, Limits, & Next Steps

CRAFFT screens risk; it does not diagnose. If the adolescent shows severe intoxication, withdrawal, or suicidal ideation, call emergency services. If CRAFFT returns positive, document findings, deliver brief intervention, and refer for assessment.

Who should use CRAFFT

  • Primary care clinicians for adolescent well checks.
  • School-based counselors for quick triage.
  • Behavioral health teams during intake.

Sources:

  • Knight, J. R., Shrier, L. A., Bravender, T. D., Farrell, M., Vander Bilt, J., & Shaffer, H. J. (1999). A new brief screen for adolescent substance abuse. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, 153(6), 591–596

For more technical background and evidence, check out the comprehensive article on Wikipedia.

Disclaimer

  • This test screen provides educational information only. It does not replace professional diagnosis. If you worry about alcohol use, contact a qualified healthcare provider.
  • All calculations regarding CRAFFT occur on your device. No information you enter is transmitted to our servers.

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