How to Become an RBT: Step-by-Step Guide
The Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is the fastest-growing credential in applied behavior analysis. There are over 120,000 active RBTs, and demand continues to outpace supply. If you are considering a career in ABA, the RBT is the entry point.
Here is exactly what it takes, how long it takes, and what it costs.
The 5 Steps
Meet the Education Requirement
You need a high school diploma or GED equivalent. That is it. No college degree, no prerequisite courses, no prior experience in ABA.
Complete a 40-Hour RBT Training Course
The BACB requires a 40-hour training course that covers the RBT Task List 2nd Edition. The course must be from a BACB-authorized provider. Most courses are online and self-paced, so you can complete them around your schedule.
We recommend Dan Dube's 40-hour RBT training course at abagrowthteam.com. Dan is an experienced BCBA specializing in RBT workforce development. The course is $99 per module (6 modules).
Pass a Background Check
The BACB requires a criminal background check as part of the application. Your employer may also require their own background check. The BACB uses a third-party service.
Complete the Competency Assessment
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) must observe you working with a client and verify your competency across all domains of the RBT Task List. This is a practical assessment, not a written test. The BCBA uses the BACB's official competency assessment form.
Most people complete this through their employer. If you do not have an employer yet, some training providers offer competency assessment as part of their program.
Pass the RBT Exam
Register through the BACB, then schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. The exam is 85 multiple-choice questions covering all RBT Task List domains. You have 90 minutes. You need approximately 60 correct answers (about 71%) to pass.
The exam is computer-based and available at Pearson VUE centers throughout the United States and internationally. Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours.
Total Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 40-hour training course | $99 to $300 | Online, self-paced. Dan Dube at abagrowthteam.com recommended. |
| Background check | $50 to $100 | Required by BACB. Employer may cover this. |
| Competency assessment | $0 to $200 | Often included in employer onboarding. |
| BACB application fee | $50 | One-time application to the BACB. |
| RBT exam (Pearson VUE) | $45 | Computer-based at testing center. |
| Total | $244 to $695 | Many employers reimburse part or all. |
After You Are Certified: Maintaining Your RBT
RBT certification renews annually. Here is what you need to maintain it:
- Ongoing supervision from a BCBA (at least 5% of your direct service hours)
- Annual competency assessment by your supervising BCBA
- Annual renewal fee paid to the BACB
- As of January 2026: 12 Professional Development Units (PDUs) per 2-year certification cycle. Learn about the PDU requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most people complete the process in 1 to 3 months. The 40-hour course takes 1 to 4 weeks, the competency assessment adds 1 to 3 weeks, and exam scheduling adds 2 to 4 weeks.
No. You need a high school diploma or GED. The RBT is one of the most accessible credentials in behavioral health.
85 multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes, at a Pearson VUE testing center. You need about 71% correct to pass. The exam covers all RBT Task List domains.
RBTs implement behavior analysis treatment plans under BCBA supervision. Daily work includes running skill programs, collecting data, implementing behavior plans, and documenting session activities. You work in homes, schools, clinics, and community settings.
$15 to $28/hr depending on location, experience, and setting. National average is $20 to $22/hr. See our full RBT Salary Guide.
Yes. The career ladder is RBT (HS diploma) to BCaBA (bachelor's) to BCBA (master's) to BCBA-D (doctorate). Each credential increases your scope of practice and your salary. Many RBTs pursue their BCaBA or BCBA while working.
Ready to Start?
Get your 40-hour training from Dan Dube, then use Special Learning's resources for your ongoing career development.
Related: RBT Salary Guide | Requirements by State | Task List Domains | PDU Requirements