RBT Certification Process

Overview

This lecture covers the process of becoming and maintaining certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), including eligibility, application, examination, supervision, ethics, and renewal requirements.

About the BACB and the RBT Role

• BACB is the certifying body for behavior analysts and technicians since 1998.
• RBTs are paraprofessionals who assist with behavior-analytic services under supervision.
• RBTs must always work under a BCBA, BCaBA, or designated supervisor.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Complete a criminal background and abuse registry check within 180 days prior to applying.
• Finish a 40-hour BACB-approved training within 5–180 days.
• Pass the Initial Competency Assessment after training and within 90 days before applying.

Application Process

• Create a BACB account with legal name and personal email.
• Upload all required documents: attestation form, 40-hour training certificate, and Initial Competency Assessment.
• Pay a $50 application fee to BACB and $45 exam fee to Pearson VUE.
• Await approval before scheduling the exam; feedback given via email.

RBT Examination

• Exam is 85 multiple-choice questions (75 scored, 10 unscored), 90 minutes to complete.
• Content includes Measurement, Assessment, Skill Acquisition, Behavior Reduction, Documentation, and Professional Conduct.
• Up to 8 retakes allowed within 12 months after initial approval, with 7 days between attempts.

After Passing the Exam

• Certification is initially inactive; must be added by a supervisor in BACB system to become active.
• Certification status appears in the BACB Certificant Registry for employers to verify.

Certification Maintenance

• Receive ongoing supervision for at least 5% of monthly service hours.
• Supervision must include at least two face-to-face contacts each month.
• Adhere to the RBT Ethics Code (2.0) at all times and self-report required events.

Renewal, Inactive Status, and Appeals

• Renew annually by completing a Renewal Competency Assessment and application in BACB account.
• If not practicing, can apply for voluntary inactive status for up to 2 years.
• Appeals for application and exam decisions must be submitted within set timelines (30 days for applications, 7 for exams).

Key Terms & Definitions

• RBT — Registered Behavior Technician, paraprofessional in behavior analysis.
• BACB — Behavior Analyst Certification Board, credentialing organization.
• Initial Competency Assessment — Skills demonstration required before applying for RBT.
• Supervision — Ongoing oversight by a qualified supervisor for all RBTs.
• Inactive status — Certification is not current; RBT cannot practice or bill.
• Renewal Competency Assessment — Annual skills check needed to renew certification.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Complete required 40-hour training and Initial Competency Assessment.
• Prepare application documents and create BACB account.
• Study for and schedule the RBT examination.
• Ensure ongoing supervision and track hours for certification maintenance.
• Complete annual renewal before expiration to maintain active status.