How much does RBT certification cost?
How much does RBT certification cost?
$200 – $1,000 total cost of RBT certification
RBT certification cost
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification costs $200 to $1,000 total on average. This includes a 40-hour training course, a $50 non-refundable application fee, a $45 exam fee, and additional expenses like background checks and competency assessments. Paid RBT training courses cost $100 to $1,000, but you can also find free courses online.
| Expense | Average cost |
|---|---|
| 40-hour training course | $0 – $1,000 |
| BACB application fee | $50 (non-refundable) |
| RBT exam fee | $45 |
| Background check | $30 – $60 (varies by location) |
| Competency assessment | $50 – $500 (varies by provider) |
| Study materials (optional) | $20 – $100 |
| In-person tutoring (optional) | $50 – $100 per hour |
| Annual renewal fee | $35 |
| Continuing education (per CEU) | $10 – $50 |
What is RBT certification?
The Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification is a credential for individuals who assist in providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services. RBTs work under the supervision of certified professionals to help improve behaviors and skills for people with developmental challenges, such as autism.
How to get RBT certification
Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) involves completing specific steps to meet the requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). This includes 40 hours of coursework and other essential tasks to ensure you are prepared for the role.
Each step comes with associated costs, which candidates should consider when planning their certification journey.
RBT exam cost breakdown
The costs of RBT certification are more than just the exam fee. Candidates should also budget for application fees, training, assessments, and other expenses like background checks.
Exam and application fee
The cost of obtaining Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification includes a $50 non-refundable application fee and a $45 exam fee. These fees are mandatory for all applicants and must be paid during the certification process.
RBT training cost
Training courses are a key part of RBT certification, requiring completion of a 40-hour course. Costs range from $0 for free online training through the Autism Partnership Foundation to nearly $1,000 for comprehensive paid courses that include additional resources like exam vouchers and study materials.
Background check
The cost of a background check typically ranges from $30 to $60, depending on the provider and location. This mandatory step for RBT certification involves fingerprinting and criminal history screening to ensure candidates meet professional and ethical standards. Applicants should complete the background check before submitting their certification application.
Competency assessment
The RBT Competency Assessment costs $50 to $150, depending on the provider. It evaluates skills in key areas like assessment and behavior reduction through observation and role-playing. Conducted by a qualified assessor, this assessment is a required step for certification.
Some comprehensive training courses include the competency assessment as part of a bundled package, offering a convenient and cost-effective option.
Optional expenses
While the RBT certification training course provides essential knowledge, many candidates benefit from supplemental resources to enhance their exam preparation. These optional tools can improve understanding and confidence. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) also offers free official exam resources to help reduce costs.
Study guides and prep books cost $20 to $50 each and can include comprehensive exam reviews, practice questions, and helpful test-taking strategies.
Practice exams and flashcards cost $10 to $30 and help reinforce key concepts and familiarize you with the exam content. Many online study guides include these resources.
Websites and apps offer interactive study materials, quizzes, and mock exams. Subscription fees or one-time purchase costs may apply.
Private tutoring sessions range from $50 to $100 per hour, depending on the tutor’s qualifications and experience.
RBT renewal
Maintaining RBT certification requires an annual renewal fee of $35 and completion of a Renewal Competency Assessment. A $50 late fee applies if renewal is submitted within 30 days after expiration. Additionally, RBTs must complete 12 hours of continuing education every two years, which may include CEUs or in-service training.
RBT certification cost assistance
Consider exploring these options to potentially reduce your financial burden:
Grants and scholarships: Financial aid may be available to eligible candidates seeking professional development.
Professional organizations: Some organizations offer assistance or resources to support certification costs for their members.
Career development programs: Programs focused on professional development in the ABA field may offer financial support for RBT certification.
Tuition reimbursement: Potential employers may offer tuition reimbursement programs, which can significantly offset training expenses.
FAQs about RBT certification
How long does it take to get RBT certification?
The RBT certification process takes anywhere from 2 weeks to several months, depending on the pace of completing the 40-hour training, competency assessment, and exam scheduling. Factors such as individual learning speed and availability of assessors can affect the timeline.
Where can I get RBT certification?
RBT certification can be obtained through organizations offering BACB-approved training, such as the Autism Partnership Foundation (free) or paid programs like Relias and PBS. Many clinics also provide training and assessments for employees pursuing certification.
How long does RBT certification last?
RBT certification is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The 40-hour training course remains valid for two years, but continuing education and a renewal competency assessment are required to maintain certification.
What jobs can I get with an RBT certification?
RBTs work in roles such as Behavior Technician or Intervention Specialist, providing one-on-one ABA therapy under a BCBA's supervision. They assist clients with autism or developmental disorders in clinics, schools, or home settings.
What comes after RBT certification?
After RBT certification, professionals may pursue advanced roles like Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) or Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), requiring higher education and additional certifications.
Choosing an RBT training course or tutor
Selecting the right RBT training course or tutor is crucial for success. Look for programs and instructors that meet BACB requirements and provide comprehensive, engaging instruction. Follow these additional recommendations:
Training course:
Ensure the course is based on the RBT Task List and meets BACB standards.
Choose programs with interactive components like role-playing and instructor-led discussions.
Confirm the course duration fits within BACB guidelines (40 hours completed in 5 to 180 days).
Review pass rates for previous students to gauge program effectiveness.
Research bundled options that include competency assessments or study materials.
Private tutor:
Verify that the tutor is a BACB certificate holder (BCBA, BCaBA) with experience in RBT training.
Choose a tutor who uses behavior-analytic instructional methods like modeling and feedback.
Seek recommendations or read reviews on Thervo or Google to assess teaching quality.
Ensure availability for personalized support tailored to your learning needs.
Questions to ask an RBT tutor
These questions will help ensure that your tutor aligns with your goals and provides high-quality guidance for certification success:
Are you certified as a BCBA or BCaBA?
Have you completed the required supervision training?
How many RBTs have you successfully trained, and what is your experience with ABA principles?
What strategies do you use to teach concepts like behavior reduction and skill acquisition?
Can you tailor your tutoring sessions to my specific learning needs or areas of difficulty?
Do you provide supplemental study materials, such as practice exams or flashcards?
What is your schedule, and how flexible are you with session timings?
What is the pass rate of your previous students on the RBT exam?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.