RBT Certification Guide: Requirements, Costs, and Online Options

RBT certification is the first step toward a meaningful career in applied behavior analysis (ABA). Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) support children and adults in developing skills and reducing interfering behaviors to reach their greatest potential. If you’re interested in a career helping people with neurodevelopmental differences thrive, becoming a Registered Behavior Technician might just be for you. This guide breaks down what it takes to get certified and start a career as an RBT.

What is RBT Certification?

RBT certification is a professional credential offered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). This credential confirms that a behavior technician meets the minimum training, assessment, and ethical standards required for the role. 

RBTs deliver behavior-analytic services under the supervision of a BCBA. They help their clients, often autistic children, develop new skills and modify their behaviors to improve their quality of life. It’s a gratifying career path. Earning an RBT certificate demonstrates a dedication to the ABA field and offers greater employment opportunities.

To get an RBT certification, you need to complete the following steps. 

1. Meet the prerequisite requirements, including:

• Be 18 years or older
• Hold a High School Diploma or equivalent

2. Pass a background check and abuse registry check.
   
   
3. Take a 40-hour RBT training course.
   
   
4. Pass a competency assessment. A BCBA or a qualified assistant assessor administers this assessment. During the competency assessment, you’ll have an opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of key ABA concepts through interviews, role-play, and hands-on work with clients. Passing the competency assessment is necessary before moving on to the final exam.
   
   
5. Pass the RBT exam. The exam includes 85 total questions. Ten of these questions aren’t actually scored, as they serve as pilot questions for future exams. You have 90 minutes to complete the exam.

Obtaining RBT certification doesn’t take long. You can complete all of the required steps in as little as a few weeks to a few months.

The 40-hour training is the component that takes the longest to complete. It can be finished in as little as 5 days. However, most people take 2-4 weeks to complete the course. From there, the competency assessment only takes 1-3 days. After passing the competency, you can apply for the RBT certification exam.

Some companies provide internal RBT training courses. If that’s not an option, there are several online 40-hour RBT courses available. Because the quality of courses can vary considerably, we recommend looking at the BACB’s course pass rates to make an informed decision when selecting a course. 

Some of the online RBT courses with the highest pass rates include:

• The University of Kansas
• AppleTree Connection
• Mississippi State University
• Behavior Development Solutions
• ABA Plus®
• OCALI
• ATCC

There are a few costs associated with RBT certification. Let’s break these down. 

• RBT 40-hour course: $0-$150+, depending on the course you select
  
• Competency Assessment: Varies. Most applicants take the competency assessment with a BCBA at their job at no charge. However, those in areas where certification is required before applying for jobs may need to pay a training company to administer the assessment, which can range from $1,000 to $2,500.
  
• Exam application: $50, paid to the BACB
  
• Exam appointment: $45, paid to the Pearson Vue testing center

Note: Starting January 1st, 2026, the exam application fee will increase to $65.

Rescheduling and Cancellation Fees

If you need to change your exam date, be aware of the following Pearson VUE fees:

• 31+ days before: No fee
• 5–30 days before: $27
• 48 hours to 5 days before: $32
• Less than 48 hours: Rescheduling not allowed

Make sure to confirm your availability before booking to avoid additional charges.

Many ABA agencies or healthcare providers cover part or all of the certification costs. When applying for jobs, ask whether the employer:

• Covers or provides the 40-hour training
• Administers the competency assessment
• Reimburses exam fees

Keeping your certification active also requires ongoing supervision and adherence to the RBT Ethics Code.

• Current Renewal Requirement: Annual renewal for $35
• Starting in 2026: Biennial renewal (every two years) for $50

Demand for RBTs is high, making it a rewarding career with job security. Review the RBT Handbook to learn more about getting certified. When you’re ready to pursue certification, you have two options: Apply for positions in your area at companies that provide the training, or reach out to an RBT training company to begin the process. Take the first step today and start your journey toward becoming a certified RBT.