Can You Take The RBT Exam in Spanish | Beginners Guide
No, you cannot take the RBT exam in Spanish. The RBT certification exam is only offered in English. However, Spanish-speaking candidates can prepare using bilingual training programs and Spanish-language study materials designed to support success on the English exam.
For those of you who have Spanish as your first language, you’re wondering how much of the RBT process you can actually do in Spanish.
Is the RBT Exam Offered in Spanish?
Unfortunately, No. The RBT exam is only available in English and not Spanish..
But you can take training in Spanish, and the final test you take through Pearson VUE will be in English.
That includes all questions, instructions, and the computer interface. So, there’s currently no translated version.
Can You Train for the RBT in Spanish?
Yes, you can complete your 40-hour training in Spanish.
That part’s flexible.
A few programs offer it:
- Skillometry has Spanish-speaking instructors and offers a bilingual training option.
- Some ABA agencies provide in-house training with Spanish support.
- ABA Technologies used to offer “Esenciales RBT®,” a fully Spanish course, but it’s no longer available.
But, just keep in mind that even if you train in Spanish, you’ll still be tested in English on your exam day.
How Much Does It Cost?
Here’s the full cost breakdown if you’re preparing with Spanish training:
| Step | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 40-Hour Course (Spanish option) | $250–$450 |
| Competency Assessment | $100–$150 |
| BACB Application Fee | $50 |
| RBT Exam (Pearson VUE) | $45 |
How Do You Apply If You Trained in Spanish?
Even if your course was bilingual, the application process with BACB must be in English.
I have compiled a step-by-step guide on how you can go about it.
- Finish your training with an approved provider in Spanish if they are available.
- Complete your competency assessment with a BCBA or BCaBA (also accepted in Spanish if the assessor is fluent).
- Submit your BACB application online and which includes background check documentation, certificate of completion, and assessment verification.
- After approval, schedule your exam through Pearson VUE.
- Pick a test center, select a date, and pay the $45 exam fee.
What If You’re Not Comfortable Testing in English?
Trust me, you’re not alone on this. A lot of bilingual RBT candidates feel nervous about it.
That said, currently, BACB doesn’t offer language accommodations unless it’s for a disability (under ADA).
Language support alone doesn’t qualify.
So, my personal advice would be to:
- Take extra practice tests in English
- Ask your trainer for key vocabulary lists in both languages
- And use mock exams to build confidence with the phrasing used on the test.
I have compiled a few mock tests that you can try before your exam.
Can I take the actual RBT exam in Spanish?
No. The exam is only provided in English, with no exceptions for Spanish and other languages.
Can I submit application documents in Spanish?
No, all documentation must be in English or officially translated.
Can my competency assessment be in Spanish?
Yes, if your assessor is fluent and it meets BACB’s standards.
Will BACB accept my Spanish training?
Yes, if it follows the official RBT Task List and is from a verified provider.
What’s the total cost if I train in Spanish?
It can cost you anywhere from $445 to $695, depending on your provider and package.
My expert opinion would be that you train in Spanish, but do a lot of mock tests in English.
As of now, there’s no Spanish version of the RBT exam yet, and no timeline for when that might change.
And Good luck, Amigos!
