Everything you need to know to gain certification and start an exciting career!
Research the field of Applied Behavior Analysis
Before jumping into certification, it is always smart to do your research. The internet is full of blogs and accounts that explain the purpose of ABA therapy and what you can expect working as an RBT. There are also numerous Facebook groups dedicated to ABA and working as RBTs. It may also be valuable to research the experience of autism based on accounts from autistic individuals themselves.
Understand the Requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB)
The BACB (https://www.bacb.com/) is the main credentialing body of professionals working in the field of ABA. The BACB certifies professionals at the high school, undergraduate, and graduate levels. The BACB sets the requirements, reviews applications, and monitors ongoing certification status. Full details on the requirements to become an RBT can be found in the RBT Handbook https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/RBTHandbook_230622-a.pdf
At least 18 years of age
High School Diploma or equivalent
Passing of a Background Check and an Abuse Registry Check
Completion of 40 Hour RBT Training Course
Completion of Initial Competency Exam
Once these requirements are met, you can create an application on the BACB's website. If your application is approved, you will then sit the the RBT examination.
40 Hour RBT Training
To begin the process, you must complete a 40 Hour RBT Training. The purpose of this training is to provide you with the foundational knowledge you need to work in the field of ABA. The 40 Hour RBT Training Course will cover content from the RBT Task List https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/RBT-2nd-Edition-Task-List_230130-a.pdf and the RBT Ethics Code 2.0 https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/RBT-Ethics-Code-230120-a.pdf.
Choosing the Right Training
There are many options online and in person. We partnered with Hi Rasmus to develop a leading RBT Training https://www.impactbehavior.com/services-6. Our training is interactive and structured around evidence-based teaching strategies. It also features exciting guest speakers, including Dr. Kelsey Ruppel, PhD, BCBA-D, Dr. Michael Mueller, PhD, BCBA, and Catherine Horton, MS, CCC-SLP.
When you sign up for the course, be sure to use your full name as it appears on your ID. Once you complete the 40 Hour Training, you will receive a certificate. It is important that you keep this certificate as you will need it to create your application. It is important to note that once you begin the 40 hour training, you must complete the training within 180 days.
Initial Competency Assessment
After you complete the 40 Hour RBT training, you will need to complete an Initial Competency Assessment. This is a skill assessment to determine assess your performance of ABA Strategies taught in the 40 hour course. The Competency Assessment may be done online or in person. There are 20 skills to be evaluated. Some may be observed in role play, while others need to be observed with a client. A client is anyone who may be a recipient of ABA services. There are several questions that are answered interview-style. The Competency Assessment Packet can be found here https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/RBT_Competency_Assessment_Initial-230309-a.pdf
Finding a Supervisor
A BCBA or a qualified Assistant Assessor working under the supervision of a BCBA will evaluate your performance during the Competency Assessment. If you do not pass, you are allowed to try again another day. If you are employed at an organization, oftentimes one of the BCBAs at the organization will perform your Competency Assessment. If you are not currently employed at an organization with a BCBA on staff, you can find one in your local area or online. We offer 100% Remote Competency Assessments if you need support getting yours done! https://www.impactbehavior.com/general-1
Apply Online
Visit https://gateway.bacb.com/Account/Login.aspx to create an account. Be sure to use your full name as it appears on your ID. Once you have an account you can access different tabbed pages. The profile page will list your BACB ID. You will need to provide this number to the supervisor completing the Initial Competency Assessment. The RBT tab has a tab to apply for the certification. In your application, you will be asked to upload your 40 hour course certificate and initial competency assessment form. You will also be asked to identify a qualified RBT Supervisor or RBT Requirements Coordinator. This is the person who will provide you with ongoing supervision. This may or may not be the same individual who performed your competency assessment. After you identify your RBT supervisor, the BACB will contact the RBT Supervisor and ask them to provide some information. After both you and your RBT Supervisor have completed the application, it may take up to two-weeks for the BACB to review and approve the application. The application fee is $50.
Take the Exam
Once your application is approved, you will be eligible to take the RBT exam. If you are not approved, you will have 90 days to resubmit your documents or make any corrections needed. If you are approved, you will be given instruction to sign up for the exam. Beginning September 1st, 2023 all RBT exams must be done at an authorized in-person testing site. You will have a 1-year testing window and are allowed a mazimum of 8 attempts. You will receive your results right away. The exam is currently offered in English. The testing fee is $45.
The exam covers content from the 2nd Edition RBT Task List. There are 85 multiple choice questions (including 10 questions that are un-scored and are being tested for use in future tests. A breakdown of the exam content and example questions can be found in the RBT Handbook. https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/RBTHandbook_230622-a.pdf
Studying for the Exam
There are many study groups on Facebook. There are also free and paid RBT mock exams to help prepare for the exam.
Passing the Exam
Congratulations!! You passed the exam and are just about ready to begin working. Within a few days you should receive an email from the BACB with you RBT Certificate. This will include your certification number. Once you have your certificate you are ready to begin working as an RBT. Be sure to always have an RBT supervisor to oversee your work keep your supervisor up to date on your BACB account.
Maintaining Certification
While practicing as an RBT, be sure to maintain regular contact with your supervisor and maintain the required amounts of supervision. You must adhere to the RBT Ethics Code at all time. It is your responsibility to stay up to date on the latest updates and changes to the certification. This can be done by monitoring the BACB's website and reviewing newsletters. Every year will need to complete a renewal application, complete a Renewal Competency Assessment, and pay a renewal fee to the BACB.