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Upcoming Changes to BACB® RBT Requirements

Aligned to 2026 BACB® RBT Requirements

RBT® Essentials: 40-Hour Training for Technicians (2026 Edition) meets the BACB’s 2026 RBT (3rd Edition) 40-Hour Training and Curriculum Outline, as well as the 2nd edition requirements . The course prepares learners for the updated exam. For current BACB policies and timelines, please see the BACB website’s RBT page.

FAQ

Is RBT® Essentials provided by the BACB®?

No. This training is offered independent of the BACB®. The BACB does not provide RBT training programs.

Is this course 100% online?

Yes. All coursework is online and self-paced. Learners must complete the training within 180 days and no less than 5 days after starting the course.  These requirements are set by the BACB and cannot be altered for any reason.

What is the RBT® credential?

The Registered Behavior Technician® is a paraprofessional who implements behavior analytic services under the supervision of a qualified BCaBA®, BCBA®, or BCBA-D® . The RBT credential is administered by the BACB®. RBT® Essentials is a noncredit training offered independent of the BACB. 

Why should I become an RBT?

The RBT credential signals training in evidence-based procedures and is commonly required by employers and payers. Demand for behavior-analytic services continues to grow across education, healthcare, and human services.

What are the requirements for the RBT credential?

Requirements are set by the BACB and include: age 18 or older, high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a 40-hour training aligned to the RBT Test Content Outline (3rd Edition) and Curriculum Outline, a completed RBT Initial Competency Assessment with a qualified supervisor, and a background check. For current details and forms, visit the BACB website’s RBT page. https://www.bacb.com/rbt/

How old do I need to be to take the course?

You must be at least 18 years old before starting the course.

Is the Competency Assessment included?

No. RBT® Essentials provides the 40-hour training only. The Initial Competency Assessment must be completed with a qualified supervisor. See the BACB website for current instructions. - https://www.bacb.com/rbt/.

Does completing RBT® Essentials make me an RBT?

No. Completing the 40-hour training is one requirement. You must also complete the Initial Competency Assessment with a qualified supervisor, pass the BACB RBT exam, and meet all BACB application requirements. See the BACB website for details - https://www.bacb.com/rbt/.

Why should I choose Florida Tech for my RBT training?

RBT® Essentials is developed by Florida Tech’s ABA Online program and ABA Technologies, Inc., leaders in online behavior-analytic education. The course covers the RBT Test Content Outline (3rd Edition) and relevant ethics content. Modules are taught by experienced BCBAs and designed for learner engagement.

Who is this course for?

This entry-level course is appropriate for teachers, parents, direct care staff, and anyone supporting individuals with autism or other developmental disabilities who seek foundational behavior analysis skills.

I reside outside the United States.  Can I take the course?

Yes. Anyone may enroll in the training. If you seek RBT certification, please confirm current country eligibility on the BACB website.

I enrolled but did not receive the email invite. How do I log in?

The invite email is sent from notifications@instructure.com and may be filtered. Check spam or junk folders and safelist that address. We recommend safelisting this email address to ensure that you receive important course and account notifications.  Email us at abaessentials@fit.edu with any questions.

What are the time requirements for the RBT training?

The course is built to cover the RBT task list 40-hour training program that is required, the relevant ethical code elements, and an overview of BCBA, BCABA and RBT roles required by the BACB. Students may complete the course in a minimum of 5 days and a maximum of 180 days, beginning at the time of enrollment for the course.  These restrictions are set by the BACB; course access cannot be extended.

What are the computer system requirements?

The course is administered through the Canvas LMS.  Your computer must meet Canvas’ minimum requirements.

You will need a computer and internet connection fast enough to handle the types of media you will view in the course. The type of browser used will impact your experience. We strongly recommend you use Chrome or Firefox from a dedicated PC or laptop. Please review the following page to determine if your system is compatible with the Canvas Instructure LMS requirements. A computer that meets or exceeds the following specifications is required:

  • High-speed internet connection (cable, DSL or better)
  • Operating system:
    • Windows 10 or higher
    • Mac OS 11 Big Sur or higher  
  • Computer must have:
    • Administrative rights on the computer (most home computers) or
    • An IT department that can install necessary software (most work computers)
    • Speakers or headphones to hear audio broadcast
    • Google Chrome (most current version) required, Firefox or Edge will also work
    • PDF reader software such as Adobe Reader

When does my course access start/expire?

Your access begins on the day and at the time of payment.  Your course will expire at the same time as your payment 179 days later (enrollment day is day 1 according to the BACB).

Want to know exactly when your course access expires? 

Login to Canvas on the web (desktop browser only), click on your course, and check the upper left corner of your screen.  Note: this will not work on the Canvas app or mobile browser.

Are there specific textbooks required?

There is no required textbook for the course. You may purchase an optional companion textbook and/or flashcards for review; details are in the course.

Is the RBT course available in Spanish?

Florida Tech does not offer a Spanish version of the RBT course. The BACB only offers their certification exam in English.

What if I fail to complete the course in 180 days?

All course components, including passing the final competency exam, are required to be completed within 180 days. This is a requirement set by the BACB. If any components are not completed successfully within this time frame, a certificate will not be earned. To complete the training, you must repurchase the course and restart from the beginning, as the BACB requires that the training be completed within 180 days. Students will not be allowed to complete only the work they failed to complete the first time they took the course.  Please reach out to us at abaessentials@fit.edu with any questions.

How long does it take to receive the certificate of completion?

Your training program certificate of completion will be sent to the email address you provide within three to five business days (Monday through Friday, excluding university holidays) of your submission of the RBT completion survey, provided all course components have been completed in their entirety.

How can I add my BACB number to the certificate of completion?

Students can enter their BACB number by printing the certificate, hand writing in their number, and scanning it as a file to their computer. It is not a requirement to be added to the certificate for the application process with the BACB.

Additional Questions?

Feel free to reach out to us at abaessentials@fit.edu and we’ll be happy to assist you.  Emails are answered in the order in which they are received.

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