Are you looking to start a meaningful behavior analysis career or expand your healthcare or education qualifications? Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is an excellent path. In this complete guide, we’ll explore how to get RBT certified—online or in states like Florida, California, Texas, Georgia, and others. Whether you’re wondering about the cost, time, requirements, or where to begin, we’ve got you covered.
What Is RBT Certification?
The RBT Certification is a professional credential offered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). It qualifies individuals to implement behavior analytic services under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Key Features:
- Entry-level credential in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Supports children and adults with autism and developmental disorders
- Supervised by BCBA or BCaBA professionals
Why Become an RBT?
- High demand in healthcare and education
- Flexible certification options, including online training
- Opportunity to work closely with individuals making real-life impacts
RBT Certification Requirements
Before applying for the exam, you must meet these minimum requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be 18 years or older |
| Education | Minimum of high school diploma or equivalent |
| Training | Complete a 40-hour RBT training |
| Background Check | Must pass a criminal background check |
| Competency Assessment | Conducted by a BCBA or BCaBA |
| Pass the RBT Exam | Proctored test through Pearson VUE |
RBT Certification Online: How to Get Started
Looking to get certified from home? Here’s how to get RBT certified online:
Step-by-Step:
- Enroll in a 40-hour online training course (BACB-approved)
- Complete the course in 1–2 weeks or up to 180 days
- Schedule your Competency Assessment via Zoom or in-person
- Submit your application through the BACB Gateway
- Schedule and pass the RBT Exam
Popular Online Training Providers:
- Autism Therapy & Training
- Relias Learning
- Verbal Behavior Institute
Get RBT Certification by State
Here’s a quick overview of how to get RBT certified in specific U.S. states, including special considerations or training hubs:
| State | Notes |
|---|---|
| Florida | Popular for online RBT programs and in-person BCBA support |
| Texas | Growing ABA job market, many bilingual RBTs in demand |
| California | Offers local RBT courses with strong autism support networks |
| Georgia | Large demand in Metro Atlanta, many school-based roles available |
| Arizona | Great telehealth ABA career options for RBTs |
| Maryland | Strong pediatric healthcare sector with RBT opportunities |
| New Jersey (NJ) | Requires state-specific training for some providers |
| Connecticut (CT) | Several community colleges offer prep courses |
| North Carolina (NC) | RBT roles in schools and private ABA clinics |
| New York (NY) | High cost of living but competitive salaries for RBTs |
| Oklahoma | State funding supports ABA for children with autism |
| Utah | Fast-track training options via nonprofits or telehealth |
| Illinois | Many school-based programs hire RBTs year-round |
| Michigan | Medicaid reimbursement supports ABA services, RBTs in high demand |
| Pennsylvania (PA) | Strong support from early intervention programs |
| Nevada | Growing ABA clinics in Las Vegas and Reno areas |
RBT Certification Cost Breakdown
| Item | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| 40-Hour Online Training | $99 – $350 |
| Competency Assessment | $75 – $150 |
| BACB Application Fee | $50 |
| RBT Exam (Pearson VUE) | $45 |
| Total | $269 – $595 |
How Long Does It Take to Get RBT Certified?
Most individuals complete the process in 4–8 weeks. However, it can be done faster depending on your schedule and course format.
| Step | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| 40-Hour Training | 1–4 weeks |
| Competency Assessment | 1–2 days |
| BACB Application Approval | 1–2 weeks |
| Exam Scheduling & Results | 1–2 weeks |
RBT Certification Renewal
The RBT credential must be renewed annually.
Renewal Requirements:
- Complete continuing education (CEUs)
- Update background check
- Submit renewal application and renewal fee
- Conduct annual competency assessment
RBT Certification Lookup
Want to verify someone’s credentials?
- Use the official BACB Certificant Registry
- Search by name or certification number
Summary: How to Become an RBT in 2025
Here’s a quick checklist to guide your RBT certification journey:
- ✅ Meet the age and education requirements
- ✅ Complete the 40-hour training (online or in-person)
- ✅ Pass the background check
- ✅ Complete the Competency Assessment
- ✅ Submit your application via BACB
- ✅ Pass the RBT Exam
- ✅ Start working under BCBA supervision
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re in Florida, California, Georgia, or pursuing RBT certification online, this rewarding career path is accessible, flexible, and in high demand. With the right training and support, you can begin making a difference in the lives of individuals with autism and developmental challenges.
Mark Davis is an experienced education and career writer specializing in behavioral health certifications like the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). He creates accurate, SEO-optimized content that helps aspiring professionals understand the RBT certification process and succeed in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).