Changes to RBT Requirements 2026

This month, Connec-to-Talk is exploring the 2026 changes to the requirements for Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs). These changes to the RBT certification process will impact both current RBTs and those ABA Therapists that are interested in pursuing their RBT certification! Luckily, Connec-to-Talk is here to walk you through the adjustments made by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). 

What is a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)? 

• An RBT is an ABA Therapist who has completed a 40 hour training course, completed a competency assessment, and has passed an exam.
• According to the BACB, to be eligible you, “Must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school-level education or equivalent, and undergo a criminal background check and an abuse registry check reviewed by an attestor.”

What changes to eligibility or maintenance are taking place in 2026?

• Recertification

• • • Recertification will be completed every two years instead of annually going forward.
    • There will be no more annual competency assessments for recertification going forward. Instead, RBTs will need to complete 12 hours of professional development units in each two year cycle.

• 40 Hour Training Course Curriculum

• • The training for the 40 hour RBT course will now be based on the 3rd Edition Test Content Outline! 
  • In order to test for your RBT certification in 2026, you will need to complete the course based on the 3rd edition. 2nd edition applications are no longer accepted.
    • The only exception to take the exam with the 2nd edition course is if your application was approved prior to January 1, 2026 and not longer than 12 months ago.
• Assessor Requirements
  • All therapists in pursuit of their RBT must undergo an initial competency assessment. The main RBT coordinator may use an assistant assessor to help complete these assessments. 
  • As of January 1, 2026, all assistant assessors must also, at a minimum, be Registered Behavior Technicians. 

When did these changes go into effect?

• All outlined changes took effect as of January 1, 2026.

Does Connec-to-Talk provide pathways for me to get the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Certification?

• Yes, Connec-to-Talk can help you get your RBT certification! We have an in-house RBT Coordinator that will guide you through the entire process from course registration all the way to your exam. Connec-to-Talk is compliant with all outlined changes, meaning no hiccups for you on your way to growing your ABA career!

Did you know that Connec-to-Talk is ACE accredited and will be designing its own RBT continuing education courses? Stay tuned for more updates this year!