What Happens If My RBT Certification Expires?
If your Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification has expired, don’t worry—there are steps you can take to get back on track.
📅 How Long Is RBT Certification Valid?
Your RBT certification is valid for one year from the date you passed the exam. After that, you need to renew it.
- Grace Period: If you miss the renewal deadline, you have an additional 30 days to renew without penalty.
- After 30 Days: If you don’t renew within the grace period, your certification becomes inactive, and you’ll need to reapply for certification.
✅ Requirements to Maintain RBT Certification
To keep your RBT certification active, you must:
- Receive Supervision: Work under the supervision of a qualified BCBA or BCaBA.
- Supervision Hours: Get supervision for at least 5% of the hours you spend providing behavior-analytic services.
- Monthly Meetings: Have at least two face-to-face meetings each month with your supervisor.
- Observation: Your supervisor must observe you delivering behavior-analytic services at least once.
- Follow Ethics: Adhere to the RBT Ethics Code 2.0 guidelines while working with clients.
🔄 Steps to Renew Your RBT Certification
If your certification hasn’t expired or is within the 30-day grace period:
- Complete Competency Assessment: Schedule and complete the RBT Renewal Competency Assessment with a certified BCBA. This assessment evaluates your skills and knowledge.
- Submit Renewal Application: Log in to your BACB account and submit the renewal application.
- Pay Renewal Fee: Pay the $35 renewal fee online or by mail.
- Wait for Confirmation: After submission, it may take up to two weeks to process your renewal. You’ll receive confirmation once your certification is renewed.
⚠️ If It’s Been More Than 30 Days Since Expiration
If your certification has been expired for more than 30 days:
- Reapply for Certification: You’ll need to complete the entire certification process again, including:
- 40-Hour Training: Complete a 40-hour training program based on the current RBT Task List.
- Competency Assessment: Pass the RBT Renewal Competency Assessment.
- RBT Exam: Retake and pass the RBT exam.
- Submit New Application: Apply for certification through your BACB account.
💡 Tips to Avoid Certification Lapse
- Plan Ahead: Start the renewal process at least 45 days before your certification expires.
- Keep Records: Maintain accurate records of your continuing education and supervision hours.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check your BACB account for updates and reminders.
