How long is the RBT training required?

The BACB requires a 40-hour RBT training program; training must be logged over at least 5 days and no more than 180 days.

Do I need to pass background checks?

Yes. Criminal and abuse/neglect registry checks are required (often within 180 days before application). Some states use fingerprint-based checks.

How To Become A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)

How to Become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)? To become an RBT, you must be 18 or older, have a high school diploma, complete 40 hours of RBT training, pass a competency assessment, clear a background check, and pass the official RBT exam from the BACB.

How to Become an RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) — Step-by-step & State Guide

State RBT Mini-Guide — Select your state

Choose your state to see a short, practical checklist of local things to check (fingerprinting, specific background checks, state touches). The national process is shown below.

Select your state

Quick notes / personal reminder

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Select a state from the dropdown, then click “Show mini guide” to see the quick state-specific checklist.

General RBT Certification Steps (USA)

Eligibility: Be 18+ with a high school diploma or equivalent.
Background checks: Complete required criminal & abuse/neglect checks (often required within 180 days of application).
40-hour training: Complete a BACB-approved 40-hour RBT training program and obtain a certificate of completion.
Initial competency assessment: A qualified BCBA or BCaBA observes and signs off on your competency (must be completed within 90 days before applying).
Apply to BACB: Submit the RBT application and pay the processing fee in USD (check current BACB amounts before applying).
Schedule & take the exam: Once authorized, schedule the exam at an approved test center (in-person exam), pay the exam fee, and pass.
Start work & renew: Work under BCBA/BCaBA supervision, complete required supervision and renewal annually.

Costs, Timing & Practical Notes

BACB fees: application processing fee and exam fee are charged in U.S. dollars (verify current amounts before applying).
Training costs: 40-hour course prices vary widely — many online options are low-cost or free; university courses can cost more.
Background checks: Typically $30–$100 depending on state and whether fingerprinting is required.
Timing: Training must be logged over at least 5 days (and within a max window); competency assessment must be within 90 days before application; certification is valid for one year and requires annual renewal.
Work & pay: RBT salaries vary by market and employer; many RBTs work in clinics, schools, home-based services, or agencies.

State highlights

Florida: Same BACB steps apply. Florida commonly requires FDLE fingerprinting that can satisfy criminal/abuse checks; keep your FDLE receipt for the BACB application. Many Florida providers run low-cost or employer-paid training.

Georgia: Follow BACB requirements. Georgia requires a state background check (GBI) or equivalent; local providers often offer free or employer-sponsored 40-hour training and paid internships. After certification, supervise under a BCBA/BCaBA and renew annually.

If your state is not Florida or Georgia, the national steps remain the authority. Check local fingerprint/background rules, some states require fingerprint cards or different agencies for checks.

Next steps & practical checklist

Confirm eligibility (age & education).
Plan training (choose BACB-aligned 40-hour course) and line up a BCBA assessor for competency.
Schedule background checks early (some fingerprint slots fill fast).
Apply to the BACB only after training and competency are finished.
Schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE test center when you get authorization to test.
After passing, begin supervised practice and track renewal requirements.