How to Register for the RBT Exam And RBT Exam Registration

To register for the RBT exam, complete a 40-hour training course, pass the competency assessment, and then apply online via BACB for $50. After approval, schedule your test with Pearson VUE, pay $45, and take the in-person exam at a U.S. testing center.
RBT Exam Registration Steps:
- Complete a 40-hour RBT training course.
- Pass the Initial Competency Assessment.
- Apply online through BACB and pay $50.
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT).
- Schedule the exam with Pearson VUE.
- Pay $45 and take the in-person test.
When I first decided to get my RBT certification, the registration part honestly felt like a maze.
I didn’t know where to start, which forms I needed, or even how the exam was scheduled. If you’re feeling the same, STOP stressing.
I’ve gone through it, and I’ll walk you through exactly how to register and apply for your RBT exam without missing a step.
Take our free Mock:
Step 1: Make Sure You’re Eligible
Before you even think about registering, check these boxes:
- Age: At least 18 years old
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Training: Completed a 40-hour RBT training course approved by BACB
- Competency: Passed an Initial Competency Assessment with a BCBA or BCaBA (has to be within 90 days of applying)
If you don’t have that 40-hour training yet, finish that first. I couldn’t even apply until mine was done.
Step 2: Apply Through the BACB Website
- Go to the BACB (Behavior Analyst Certification Board) site and create an account.
- Upload three things:
- Proof of your 40-hour training
- The completed competency assessment form
- Your diploma or equivalent
- Pay the $50 application fee
Double-checking your uploads. BACB is strict, and any mistake delays your approval.
Step 3: Wait for Your Authorization to Test (ATT)
Once BACB reviews everything, they send you an Authorization to Test email.
This is your ticket to schedule the actual exam.
When I got mine, it felt like a huge relief because it meant all my documents were finally accepted.
Step 4: Schedule Your Exam with Pearson VUE
- Create a Pearson VUE account
- Find a testing center near you (they’re all over the U.S.)
- Pick your date and time
- Pay the $45 exam fee
Heads-up: You can’t take this test online.
It’s in-person only at a Pearson testing site. A friend of mine thought it was virtual and had to reschedule, so don’t make that mistake.
Step 5: Exam Day Checklist
When the big day comes:
- Bring two valid IDs (driver’s license, passport, SS card)
- Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and security
- Expect 85 multiple-choice questions (10 don’t count toward your score)
- You’ll have 90 minutes to finish
You will get your results right on-screen after the test.
If You Don’t Pass
Trust me, there are a lot that don’t pass on their first exam. It’s not just you, don’t panic.
You can retake the exam up to 8 times in 12 months. Each retake will cost you $45, and you have to wait at least 7 days between attempts.
A colleague of mine failed the first try, studied weak areas, and passed on her second attempt with no problem. So, trust in yourself, prepare for the RBT Exam well, and give your all.