To become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), you must complete a 40-hour training program, pass a background check, demonstrate applied skills through a competency assessment, apply to the BACB, and pass the official certification exam.
If you’re passionate about helping individuals with autism and other developmental disorders, becoming an RBT is a rewarding, entry-level path into the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
RBTs play a crucial role in implementing behavior intervention plans and working directly with clients under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
This guide outlines every step you need to take to become an RBT, from training to certification, with clear explanations and helpful tips to set you up for success.
What Is a Registered Behavior Technician?
An RBT is a credentialed paraprofessional who delivers ABA services designed to improve social, communication, and learning skills.
RBTs work under the guidance of BCBAs or BCaBAs (Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts). They do not design treatment plans, but they implement them by collecting data, managing client behavior, and teaching replacement skills.
Their responsibilities often include:
- Teaching daily living or communication skills
- Reducing challenging behaviors
- Recording data on client progress
- Working in homes, schools, or clinics
Because of the high demand for behavioral health support across the country, RBTs are needed in a wide variety of settings.
Step-by-Step: How to Become an RBT
1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
You must meet three basic criteria to qualify for RBT certification:
- Age: At least 18 years old
- Education: Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Background Check: Pass a criminal background check and abuse registry screening
The background check must be completed within 180 days of applying for certification. You should also be legally eligible to work in your jurisdiction.
2. Complete the 40-Hour RBT Training
You must complete a 40-hour training program that meets all BACB curriculum requirements.
The RBT training is a comprehensive course covering the fundamentals of ABA. It is divided into eight major content areas:
| Content Area | Minimum Hours |
|---|---|
| Introduction to ABA | 2 hours |
| Preparing for Service Delivery | 1 hour |
| Data Collection and Graphing | 3 hours |
| Assisting with Behavior Assessments | 3 hours |
| Behavior-Change Interventions | 20 hours |
| Documentation and Reporting | 3 hours |
| Ethics and Professionalism | 5 hours |
| Next Steps in the Certification Process | 1 hour |
2 additional hours can be distributed flexibly across any content area to meet the full 40-hour requirement.
Training must be delivered by a qualified Responsible Trainer who is a BCaBA, BCBA, or BCBA-D and has completed supervision training. Assistant Trainers must hold RBT certification or higher.
Where to take the training:
- ABA-specific platforms (e.g., CentralReach, Relias, Florida Tech)
- Employers who offer internal training for new hires
- Online programs with self-paced modules
Some employers provide this training for free, while others charge between $50 and $400.
3. Complete the Initial Competency Assessment
After training, you must pass an Initial Competency Assessment with a qualified assessor.
This assessment tests your ability to apply what you’ve learned. It includes tasks such as:
- Data collection
- Reinforcement procedures
- Implementing behavior plans
- Responding to emergencies
- Understanding ethical guidelines
Key rules:
- Must be completed after the 40-hour training
- Must be completed within 90 days of submitting your application
- Must be overseen by a Responsible Assessor who is a BCaBA, BCBA, or BCBA-D with supervision training
- The assessor and the applicant must be employed by or contracted with the same organization providing ABA services
- Assistant Assessors must be certified RBTs or higher
The assessment includes interview and performance-based components. In some cases, interview options may substitute for skills you haven’t practiced directly (e.g., crisis procedures).
Pro Tip: If you’re applying through an ABA company, they’ll often provide this assessment for free.
4. Complete the Background Check
You must pass a criminal background check and an abuse registry screening.
This ensures that RBTs working with vulnerable individuals do not pose a safety risk. The check must be:
- Completed within 180 days of applying
- Comparable to what’s required for teachers, childcare workers, or home health aides
Costs vary by state or provider, usually ranging from $30 to $80. If you’re employed, your organization may cover it.
5. Submit Your Certification Application to the BACB
Once you complete training, background check, and your competency assessment, submit your official application through the BACB’s online portal.
You’ll need to:
- Upload your certificate of completion for the 40-hour training
- Include your completed competency assessment documentation
- Verify that your background check meets the BACB’s standards
- Provide employer contact information (if applicable)
Application fee: $65
This is a non-refundable fee and must be paid online when submitting your application.
Once submitted, the BACB will review your materials and approve or deny your application. Most applicants receive a decision within a few weeks.
6. Schedule and Pass the RBT Exam
After your application is approved, schedule your RBT exam with Pearson VUE.
The exam includes:
- 75 scored multiple-choice questions
- 10 unscored pilot questions
- 90 minutes to complete
The exam is based on the official RBT Test Content Outline, which includes:
- Data Collection and Graphing
- Behavior Assessment
- Skill Acquisition
- Behavior Reduction
- Documentation and Reporting
- Ethics
Exam fee: $45
This fee is paid directly to Pearson VUE when you register for your test.
If you pass, you’ll officially become a Registered Behavior Technician. If you don’t pass, you may retake the exam, but you’ll need to pay again and possibly wait for a new test window.
7. Maintain Your RBT Certification
Once certified, RBTs must meet specific supervision and professional development requirements.
Ongoing Supervision
- Minimum 5% of monthly behavior-analytic hours must be supervised
- Must include at least 2 face-to-face contacts per month
- At least 1 contact must be individual
- Must be supervised by a BCaBA, BCBA, or BCBA-D
Recertification Requirements
- Recertify every 2 years
- Submit a $50 recertification application
- Complete 12 hours of professional development
- Examples: in-service training, CEUs, or university courses
Note: The Renewal Competency Assessment is no longer required unless returning from voluntary inactive status.
How Long Does It Take to Become an RBT?
Most people can complete the RBT certification process in 1 to 3 months.
Here’s a rough timeline:
- Training: 1 to 6 weeks (depending on format)
- Competency assessment: 1 to 2 days
- Application review: 1 to 3 weeks
- Exam scheduling and results: 1 to 2 weeks
Some employers fast-track the process for new hires by providing training and assessments in-house.
How Much Does It Cost to Become an RBT?
Total cost to become an RBT ranges from $145 to $560 or more.
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 40-hour training | $0 – $400 |
| Background check | $30 – $80 |
| Competency assessment | $50 – $150+ |
| BACB application fee | $65 |
| Exam fee (Pearson VUE) | $45 |
| Total Estimate | $145 – $560+ |
Costs can be significantly reduced if your employer covers some or all of these steps.
Final Thoughts: Becoming an RBT
Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician is a rewarding way to start a career in ABA and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. With a clear pathway, modest cost, and strong job prospects, the RBT credential is one of the most accessible professional certifications in behavioral health.
Follow each step carefully, seek support from experienced professionals, and be sure to stay organized with your documentation. Once certified, you’ll join a growing field where your work has a direct impact on individuals, families, and communities.