The registered Behavior Technician (RBT) test is the only official test required for certification in the area of applied Behaviour Analyse (ABA). RBTs are directly involved with individuals and children with autism or other developmental issues providing therapy using strategies developed by an expert
Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA).
Simply put it's you who puts the plan in place. It doesn't matter if it's helping children to communicate more effectively or reducing problematic behaviors or reducing the likelihood of problems, the RBT responsibility is hands-on and crucial.
The exam is intended to make sure you're ready for the job.
Who Can Take the RBT Exam in 2025?
It's not for everyone to walk into the test center and be able to take an exam. You'll need to satisfy certain minimum eligibility requirements that the Board of Certification for Behavior Analysts (BACB) is updating frequently. From 2025, here are the current requirements for certification:
Age and Education
• It is required to be at least 18 or older.
• At a minimum, you need a high school diploma or equivalent.
Background Check
• A thorough background check is required. It must be completed within the first 180 days of applying.
• It is done to guarantee the client's security and ensure compliance with ethical standards.
40-Hour RBT Training Course
• You must take an approved 40-hour course of training through the BACB.
• It covers all the areas within The RBT Task List (2nd Edition).
• The course should be completed within not less than 5 days and not over 180 consecutive days.
Competency Assessment
• It is a real-world test that a trained BCBA or BCaBA examines and evaluates your capability to carry out important RBT tasks.
• The application must be submitted within 90 days of submitting the application.
After all the steps have been completed and properly documented you are able to formally submit your RBT request to BACB.
What's on the RBT Exam in 2025?
The RBT test is a computer-based exam that consists of 85 multiple-choice tests. The test can be administered in person at the Pearson VUE testing center or online via secure proctoring.
Of 85 of them:
• 75 points are not scored.
• 10 are not scored (trial questions for use in the future)
• You will have 90 minutes to finish the test.
The questions are straight from RBT Task List (2nd Edition) which covers six major domains:
1. Measurement
• Collecting data accurately
• Graphing trends in behaviour
2. Assessment
• Assisting with assessments of preference
• Recording and observing behaviours
3. Skill Acquisition
• Implementing skill plans
• Instructing new behaviours
4. Behaviour Reduction
• Recognizing the signs of trouble
• Utilizing techniques to de-escalate
5. Documentation & Reporting
• Notes for writing sessions
• Recording incidents in a professional and clear manner
6. Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice
• Respecting the ethical code of the BACB
• Be aware of your limits and when to call
Every question will test your knowledge of the real world and not only memorized facts. This is why it's important to prepare.
How to Prepare for the RBT Exam: 2025 Edition
Many people think that they are able to improvise.
However, under-preparing is the most common mistake RBT candidates make. The test may look easy at first glance but it is a test of the ability of candidates to apply their knowledge in real-world situations.
Here's how to make it happen:
1. Follow the RBT Task List
Don't simply skim through it. Divide it into pieces and go through each section one at one time.
2. Complete Practice Exams
They simulate the actual test. They also reduce anxiety during the test.
3. Flashcards Work Wonders
Use them to remember abbreviations, terms and ethical codes.
4. Teach What You Learn
If you are able to explain an idea clearly to another person, then you can already know the concept.
5. Study Every Day
Consistent, short sessions (30-45 minutes daily) are superior to weekend marathons.
6. Don't Ignore Ethics
Ethics-related questions pop up and a lot of people avoid going over the questions. Don't be one of them.
Need help? Read a complete guide on
How to Make an RBT Study Plan that is weekly in order to prepare for Examiners of the RBT Exam.
Step-by-Step Guide to RBT Exam Registration
When you're ready to apply, be sure to follow the steps carefully. Inadequately following a step could result in delays to the approval process.
Step 1: Finish Your 40-Hour Training
Find the certification. Check to make sure it's issued by an authorized provider of BACB.
Step 2: Complete Your Competency Assessment
It can be done in person or by video conference using a BCBA or BCaBA qualified BCBA as well as BCaBA.
Step 3: Make a BACB Account
Visit www.bacb.com and sign up for a free account. This account will be used to submit documents and get updates.
Step 4: Submit All Documents
Upload:
• Your certificate of training for 40 hours
• Form for assessing competence
• Checking the background of the applicant
• Government-issued ID
Step 5: Pay the Fees
• Application: $50 (non-refundable)
• Exam: $45
• Be sure to check for price adjustments through the official BACB website
Step 6: Book Your Exam Date
Once you've been approved, you'll receive an authorization email via Pearson VUE. Select your test location (online or at a centre) and choose a suitable time.
After the RBT Exam: What Happens Next?
If you pass -- congratulations! You're now officially an RBT.
Your name will be added to your name in the BACB public registry. This means that you are now able to be working in ABA settings, including:
• Schools
• Clinics for behaviour
• Home therapy
• Day centres, community programmes or even day camps.
However, it doesn't end here.
You'll need:
• Regular supervision by an BCBA (monthly minimum number of hours)
• The annual renewal of your certification and includes new competence checks
Many RBTs are also able to further study and become BCBAs in the future.
What If You Don't Pass the Exam?
It occurs.
The best part? You can have up to eight attempts in a year.
If you don't pass:
• You'll be provided with a breakdown of performance by domain
• Utilize it to modify only those areas that are weak.
• At least a week before applying for another
Don't forget that failing once does not mean you can't do it again. Don't make the same mistakes over and over again.
Read our article: Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid studying for the RBT Exam for more tips.
Final Thoughts: Is Becoming an RBT in 2025 Worth It?
If you're looking to work in the field of behavioural therapy, there's a better place to begin than with the RBT certification.
It's inexpensive, efficient, practical, and highly sought-after.
But it's not a good fit for everyone.
You require a lot of patience, integrity and a passion to help others.
The RBT exam scheduled for 2025 is only the beginning but it's an important first step towards an appropriate direction.
Follow this guide to keep your eyes on the ball stay clear of common pitfalls and be prepared with confidence.
