CAC Study Guide 2026

Everything you need to pass the CAC exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.

📋 CAC Exam Format at a Glance

150
Questions
180 min
Time Limit
67.00%
Passing Score

📚 CAC Topics to Study (23)

✍️ Sample CAC Questions & Answers

1. Which tool is specifically designed to identify a client's individual high-risk relapse triggers?
The Situational Confidence Questionnaire (SCQ)

The Situational Confidence Questionnaire (SCQ) assesses a client's self-efficacy across various high-risk situations, helping identify specific relapse triggers.

2. Which neurotransmitter is MOST centrally involved in the reward pathway dysregulation that underlies addiction?
Dopamine

Dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens (the brain's reward center) is the primary neurochemical mechanism through which addictive substances produce euphoria and reinforce use.

3. Which document bridges assessment findings and the actual treatment services a client will receive?
Treatment plan

The treatment plan translates assessment data into individualized goals, objectives, and interventions that guide the client's care.

4. Which statement about electronic health records (EHR) and 42 CFR Part 2 is accurate?
EHR systems must be configured to segment and restrict SUD records from being shared without specific Part 2 consent

Electronic records containing SUD information must be segmented and access-controlled within EHR systems to prevent unauthorized disclosure in violation of 42 CFR Part 2.

5. When a counselor uses a 'double-sided reflection' in Motivational Interviewing, what are they doing?
Reflecting both the client's ambivalence and their reasons for change

A double-sided reflection acknowledges both sides of a client's ambivalence, validating their hesitation while highlighting their own change talk.

6. Which option correctly represents the Stages of Change Model?
Pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action and maintenance

The Stages of Change Model was developed by Prochaska and DiClemente in the 1970&'s to allow professionals to gauge a client&'s readiness for change to aide in treatment planning.

🎯 Free CAC Practice Tests

📖 CAC Guides & Articles

Your CAC Study Path
1. Learn with Flashcards → 2. Drill Practice Tests → 3. Take the Full Exam Simulation