PCL-5 Preliminary Assessment
PTSD Checklist for DSM-5-TR
What is the PCL-5?
The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5-TR (PCL-5) is a widely-used, evidence-based screening tool for assessing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Developed in alignment with DSM-5-TR criteria, it asks about 20 symptoms experienced over the past month.
Understanding your results
For clinicians
Send the PCL-5 as a gentle check-in before the session. The score is waiting when you open the chart, and the trend builds itself.
For individuals
This tool provides a preliminary screen only, not a substitute for clinical evaluation. Share your results with a qualified mental health professional for proper follow-up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a positive PCL-5 score?
A PCL-5 score of 31–33 or above is commonly used as a provisional PTSD diagnosis cutoff. The scale ranges from 0–80. A score of 33 has demonstrated good sensitivity and specificity for PTSD in civilian samples.
How many questions does the PCL-5 have?
The PCL-5 has 20 questions corresponding to the 20 DSM-5-TR PTSD symptoms across four clusters: intrusion, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and alterations in arousal and reactivity.
Can the PCL-5 be used to track treatment progress?
Yes. A change of 10–20 points on the PCL-5 is considered a reliable and clinically meaningful change. It is commonly used in measurement-based care to monitor PTSD treatment response over time.
How do you interpret a PCL-5 score?
PCL-5 scores range from 0–80. A score of 31–33 or above is the recommended provisional cutoff for PTSD (National Center for PTSD). Scores below 20 suggest minimal symptoms; 21–32 is subthreshold; 33–49 indicates moderate PTSD symptoms warranting evaluation; 50–80 indicates severe symptoms.
What PCL-5 score indicates PTSD?
A PCL-5 total score of 33 or above meets the provisional threshold for PTSD in civilian populations. Military populations sometimes use a cutoff of 38. Any score in this range should be followed by a detailed clinical evaluation.