Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
It doesn't require fasting.
Some conditions, like anemia, recent blood loss, pregnancy, or some hemoglobin variants, can make A1C less accurate.
Why it's done
- Screening for diabetes, usually starting at age 35 or earlier with risk factors
- Diagnosing prediabetes or diabetes
- Checking diabetes control, often every 3 to 6 months
Getting ready and what happens
- No fasting is needed.
How the test is done
- A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.
- Some clinics use a finger-prick test.
What the results mean
| Result | Typical range for adults |
|---|---|
| Normal | Below 5.7% |
| Prediabetes | 5.7% to 6.4% |
| Diabetes | 6.5% or higher (usually confirmed with a second test) |
| Common goal for many adults with diabetes | Below 7% (your goal may differ) |
Normal ranges vary from lab to lab and can differ by age, sex, and pregnancy. Your report lists your lab's own range next to each result. A result a little outside the range is often not a problem.
Prediabetes range
You have a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes. Losing a small amount of weight and being more active can lower that risk a lot.
Diabetes range
Your provider will confirm it and talk about a treatment plan.
Average glucose
An A1C of 7% matches an average blood sugar of about 154 mg/dL; 8% is about 183 mg/dL.
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
- What A1C goal is right for me?
- How often should I be tested?
- Could anything make my A1C inaccurate?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related medicines
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.