Enroll in a BACB-approved curriculum covering all 6 task list domains — measurement, skill acquisition, behavior reduction, documentation, crisis intervention, and professional conduct. Online formats let most candidates finish in 2 weeks.
A BCBA or BCaBA supervisor observes you demonstrating all 20 core RBT task list skills in a live or telehealth session. Every item is signed off individually — failing even one requires a full reassessment from the start.
Log in to the BACB Gateway portal, upload your training certificate and signed Competency Assessment, and pay the non-refundable $50 fee. BACB typically approves complete applications within 3–5 business days.
The 85-question Pearson VUE exam includes 75 scored items and 10 unscored pilot questions; the $45 exam fee is paid at scheduling. You have 90 minutes — first-attempt pass rates run 68–72%, so targeted prep matters.
BACB issues your RBT certificate digitally once results are approved. From day one you must work under a BCBA supervisor and log a minimum of 5% of all monthly service hours in supervised sessions.
Annual renewal requires a renewal fee, continuous supervision documentation, and passing the RBT Renewal Assessment. Missing the deadline causes credential lapse — reinstatement requires a full reapplication, including the $50 fee.
To become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), you must meet BACB eligibility requirements: be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass a criminal background check. You then complete 40 hours of BACB-approved training, pass a competency assessment administered by a qualified BCBA or BCaBA, and pass the RBT exam through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Once certified, you must maintain ongoing supervision and renew annually.
Getting your RBT certification involves five core steps: meet BACB eligibility requirements, complete 40 hours of RBT training based on the BACB Task List, pass a background check, complete an in-person competency assessment with a supervising BCBA, and pass the RBT exam (85 questions, 90 minutes). Most candidates prepare with RBT practice tests to familiarize themselves with the question format before sitting the official BACB exam.
RBT certification is issued exclusively by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) at bacb.com, where you submit your application and schedule your exam through Pearson VUE testing centers nationwide. Many employers — including ABA therapy clinics, school districts, and home health agencies — sponsor candidates through the required 40-hour training and competency assessment as part of the onboarding process.
Start by confirming you meet BACB requirements: age 18+, a high school diploma or GED, and a clean background check. Complete 40 hours of structured RBT training covering the BACB Task List areas (measurement, skill acquisition, behavior reduction, and professionalism), then have a BCBA conduct your competency assessment. After submitting your BACB application and receiving approval, schedule and pass the RBT exam to earn your credential.
You apply for RBT certification directly through the BACB's website (bacb.com), and take the proctored exam at an authorized Pearson VUE test center or via online remote proctoring. The required 40-hour training and competency assessment are typically arranged through your employer or a BACB-approved training provider. Preparing with skill acquisition practice tests can help you build confidence in one of the exam's most heavily weighted domains.
To get RBT certified, complete the BACB's four-step process: (1) verify you meet eligibility requirements (18+, high school diploma, background check), (2) finish 40 hours of RBT training, (3) pass a hands-on competency assessment overseen by a supervising BCBA or BCaBA, and (4) submit your BACB application and pass the 85-question RBT exam. The entire process typically takes four to eight weeks depending on how quickly you complete training and schedule your exam appointment.