How to Become an RBT (Registered Behavior Technician): The Complete Guide

Introduction

If you’re interested in a fulfilling career in applied behavior analysis, becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a fantastic way to begin. RBTs are essential in providing therapy, especially for kids with autism and other developmental issues. This guide offers clear steps to get you started, including the eligibility criteria, exam details, costs involved, how long everything takes, and what you need to do to keep your certification active. Plus, we’ll touch on job opportunities in the field.

What Is an RBT?

An RBT, or Registered Behavior Technician, is a paraprofessional certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). RBTs work under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) to implement ABA-based behavior intervention plans.

Typical tasks of an RBT include:

• Implementing behavior reduction and skill acquisition programs
• Collecting data on client progress
• Communicating with clients and caregivers
• Ensuring ethical and professional conduct

RBTs are typically employed in clinical settings, schools, and home environments, serving individuals with behavioral challenges, most commonly children with autism.

There are several compelling reasons to pursue RBT certification:

• Low barrier to entry: No college degree required
• Fast certification: Many complete the process in 1-3 months
• High demand: RBTs are needed across the U.S.
• Rewarding work: You help improve clients’ quality of life
• Career advancement: It’s a stepping stone to higher ABA credentials like BCaBA or BCBA

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, behavior technician jobs are expected to grow significantly due to the increasing need for ABA therapy.

Who Certifies RBTs?

The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) is the governing body that issues the RBT credential. The BACB sets standards for:

• Training and supervision
• Competency assessments
• Ethics and professional conduct

All RBT candidates must follow BACB guidelines and pass the RBT certification exam to become credentialed.

Website: https://www.bacb.com

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become an RBT

Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Before beginning the training, you must meet the following BACB eligibility criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Education: Possess a high school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED).
• Background: Pass a criminal background check and must not be listed on any governmental debarment lists.

Tip: Some states have additional requirements, so check with your local regulations or employer.

Step 2: Complete a 40-Hour RBT Training Program

The next step is to complete a 40-hour training program that aligns with the BACB RBT Task List (2nd Edition).

What Does the Training Cover?

• Measurement (data collection, continuous & discontinuous measurement)
• Assessment (preference assessments, functional behavior assessments)
• Skill acquisition (discrete trial training, chaining, prompting, generalization)
• Behavior reduction (antecedent strategies, extinction, differential reinforcement)
• Documentation and reporting
• Professional conduct and scope of practice

Training Rules:

• Must be conducted by a BACB-qualified instructor
• Must be completed within 180 days of starting
• Can be online or in-person
• Must include interactive activities and assessments

Popular RBT Training Providers:

• Autism Partnership Foundation – Free online training
• Relias Academy
• Florida Tech ABA Online
• CentralReach Institute

Some employers offer this training as part of the hiring or onboarding process.

Step 3: Complete the RBT Initial Competency Assessment

After finishing your training, you need to complete the Initial Competency Assessment with a qualified supervisor (BCBA or BCaBA).

Key Features:

• Covers all 20 tasks on the RBT Task List
• Requires both role-play and client observations
• Can be conducted in-person or via secure video conferencing
• Must be completed within 90 days of submitting your RBT application

The assessment involves your supervisor observing and rating your performance on tasks such as:

• Prompting techniques
• Data collection accuracy
• Session documentation
• Responding to client behavior ethically

Note: A signed Competency Assessment Form must be submitted with your application to the BACB.

Step 4: Pass a Criminal Background Check

All RBT applicants must pass a criminal background check within 180 days of applying. This ensures that candidates:

• Have no history of abuse or neglect
• Have not been convicted of serious offenses

Requirements may vary depending on state or employer policies. You may need to:

• Submit fingerprints
• Provide identification documents
• Authorize disclosure of criminal history

Step 5: Submit an Application to the BACB

With training and assessments completed, you’re ready to apply for RBT certification through the BACB.

You Will Need:

• Certificate of 40-hour training completion
• Completed Initial Competency Assessment form
• Proof of high school diploma or GED
• Valid photo ID
• Background check documentation
• Application fee (~$50)

Create an account through the BACB Gateway (https://gateway.bacb.com) to submit your materials and fees. Once approved, you’ll receive authorization to take the RBT exam.

Step 6: Schedule and Pass the RBT Exam

The RBT exam is administered by Pearson VUE testing centers or can be taken online with remote proctoring.

Exam Details:

• Duration: 90 minutes
• Format: 85 multiple-choice questions (75 scored, 10 unscored)
• Content Areas:
  • Measurement
  • Assessment
  • Skill acquisition
  • Behavior reduction
  • Documentation and reporting
  • Ethics and professional conduct

Tips to Prepare:

• Use RBT exam prep online resources or flashcards
• Review your 40-hour training materials
• Take practice exams

Passing the exam grants you official RBT certification.

Cost Breakdown for Becoming an RBT

Some employers cover part or all of the certification costs.

Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

Maintaining Your RBT Certification

RBT certification must be renewed annually. Maintenance includes:

1. Ongoing Supervision:
   • Must receive supervision for at least 5% of monthly hours worked
   • Supervision must be documented by a BCBA or BCaBA
2. Renewal Competency Assessment:
   • Conducted annually by a qualified supervisor
3. Renewal Application & Fee:
   • Submit through the BACB Gateway
   • Pay renewal fee (~$35-$50)
4. Adherence to Ethics:
   • Follow the RBT Ethics Code (2.0)

Career Outlook and Opportunities

RBTs are employed in diverse settings, including:

• Autism clinics
• Public and private schools
• In-home ABA therapy
• Early intervention programs
• Pediatric hospitals

Salary Expectations:

• Hourly: $18 to $25+
• Annual: $35,000 to $50,000 depending on region and experience

Experienced RBTs often pursue further education to become:

• Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBA)
• Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA)

Tips for Excelling as an RBT

• Stay organized with your data collection and documentation
• Ask for feedback regularly from your supervisor
• Keep learning through webinars, courses, and certifications
• Maintain professional boundaries with clients and families
• Use ethical judgment in challenging situations

Conclusion

Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a great way to jumpstart a career in applied behavior analysis. The requirements are straightforward, and there’s a real need for professionals in this field. Following the BACB’s guidelines makes the process easy, from training to the exam. Once you get your certification, you can build your experience and really make a difference in people’s lives as you advance in your career.