ADC Practice Test 2026 — Free ADC Exam Prep Questions
The IC&RC ADC exam is the reciprocal credentialing exam that member boards use to certify entry- to mid-level substance use disorder counselors. This practice set follows the four domains of the current ADC candidate guide, with client vignettes on pharmacology, DSM-5-TR diagnosis, ASAM placement, counseling methods, medications for addiction treatment, and confidentiality and ethics.
A counselor files a required report after a client discloses leaving bruises on their child. The child protective services caseworker then requests the client's full treatment record. The counselor should
ADC format, scoring & key facts
Computer-based through Prometric, at a Prometric test center or by remote proctoring where your administering board allows it. Not adaptive. No books or reference materials allowed.
| Questions | 150 multiple choice (125 scored + 25 unscored pretest) |
|---|---|
| Time | 3 hours |
| Answer choices | 3 or 4 per question, one best answer |
| Passing score | 500 on a 200–800 scale |
| Blueprint | Based on the 2022 IC&RC ADC Job Analysis; current candidate guide effective November 2022 |
| Delivery | Prometric test center, or remote proctoring if your board allows it |
| Retakes | Wait at least 90 days |
| Recertification | IC&RC minimum: 40 CE hours every 2 years (set by your board) |
Facts last verified Oct 21, 2026. Source: internationalcredentialing.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ADC-Candidate-Guide-2022.pdf. Always confirm details with IC&RC before your exam.
When can you take the ADC?
Apply to your administering board first. Once it approves you, you receive pre-registration instructions and book a Prometric appointment within your testing window.
What the ADC covers
Every PrepBanq ADC test mirrors the official domain weights.
Domain distribution
% of the exam| Content domain | Weight | ≈ Questions on exam | Our practice questions |
|---|---|---|---|
Scientific Principles of Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders | 25% | ~31 | 38 questions → |
Evidence-Based Screening and Assessment | 20% | ~25 | 30 questions → |
Evidence-Based Treatment, Counseling, and Referral | 30% | ~38 | 45 questions → |
Professional, Ethical, and Legal Responsibilities | 25% | ~31 | 37 questions → |
How to register for the ADC
Retake policy
Wait at least 90 days after a failed attempt (some boards require longer). After four consecutive failed attempts, boards require remedial action before you test again.
Score release
A preliminary score appears on screen right after the exam. Your board then sends the official score report, which shows your scaled score and your percent correct in each domain.
Credential renewal
Your board sets the renewal rules. IC&RC's minimum standard is 40 continuing education hours every two years.
Your path to passing the ADC
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ADC FAQ
How many questions are on the ADC?
The ADC has 150 questions (125 of them scored) and you have 3 hours to finish. Question types: Multiple choice with three or four answer choices and one correct or best answer. 125 questions are scored and 25 are unscored pretest questions mixed in and not identified. No penalty for guessing..
How long is the ADC exam?
Testing time for the ADC is 3 hours.
What is the passing score for the ADC?
ADC passing standard: 500 on a 200–800 scaled score. Score range: 200–800.
How much does the ADC cost?
The ADC registration fee is Set by your IC&RC member or administering board. Rescheduling or cancelling costs $35 and must be done at least 5 days before the exam. Check the official site for current fees before you register.
What is on the ADC?
The ADC covers Scientific Principles of Substance Use and Co-Occurring Disorders (about 25%), Evidence-Based Screening and Assessment (about 20%), Evidence-Based Treatment, Counseling, and Referral (about 30%), Professional, Ethical, and Legal Responsibilities (about 25%).
Who administers the ADC?
The IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC) Exam is administered by IC&RC. Delivery: Computer-based through Prometric, at a Prometric test center or by remote proctoring where your administering board allows it. Not adaptive. No books or reference materials allowed.
Can you retake the ADC?
Wait at least 90 days after a failed attempt (some boards require longer). After four consecutive failed attempts, boards require remedial action before you test again.
Is there a free ADC practice test?
Yes. PrepBanq has 15 free ADC practice tests with 150 exam-style questions in the real ADC formats, and every answer is explained. No credit card is needed.
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