# How do I become an RBT? The steps under the 2026 requirements

> Eligibility, the 40-hour training, the competency assessment, the exam and what happens after you pass.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/how-to-become-an-rbt
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** To become an RBT, you must be at least 18 with a high school education, pass background and abuse registry checks, complete a 40-hour training that meets the BACB's 2026 curriculum, complete the RBT Initial Competency Assessment with a qualified assessor, then apply to the BACB and pass the RBT exam. After that, you need ongoing supervision to practice.

**Key takeaways**
- Be **18+** with a **high school education**, and pass **background and abuse registry checks**.
- Complete a **40-hour training** that meets the **2026 curriculum**, over **5 to 180 days**.
- Complete the **Initial Competency Assessment**, then apply and **pass the exam**.
- You need a **supervisor** before and after you're certified.

## What are the steps to become an RBT?

1. **Check eligibility.** You must be at least 18, have a high school-level education or equivalent, and pass a criminal background check and abuse registry check reviewed by an attestor.[1]
2. **Complete the 40-hour training.** It must meet the RBT 2026 curriculum and be designed and overseen by a BCaBA or BCBA who has completed the 8-hour supervision training.[2]
3. **Complete the Initial Competency Assessment.** A qualified assessor observes you performing key skills, after your training.[1]
4. **Create a BACB account and apply.** Upload your training certificate and other documents.[3]
5. **Pass the RBT exam** through Pearson VUE.
6. **Keep a supervisor.** You can only provide services while you're supervised.

## What's in the 40-hour training?

The 2026 curriculum sets minimum hours per section:[2]

| Section | Minimum hours |
| --- | --- |
| Introduction to ABA | 2 |
| Preparing for service delivery | 1 |
| Data collection and graphing | 3 |
| Assisting with behavior assessments | 3 |
| Behavior-change interventions | 20 |
| Documentation and reporting | 3 |
| Ethics and professionalism | 5 |
| Next steps in certification | 1 |
| Flexible hours (any section) | 2 |

Training must include behavioral skills training, like modeling and role-play with feedback. Assigned readings don't count toward the 40 hours.[2]

**Check the certificate.** Your certificate must include the BACB's 2026 approval statement and your trainer's certification number. Ask before
  you enroll.

## How do I find a training and a job at the same time?

Many ABA organizations hire people before they're certified and provide the 40-hour training and competency assessment as part of onboarding. Note that the responsible trainer can't be related to, subordinate to, or employed by you.[2]

**Questions for employers.** Ask: "Do you provide the 40-hour training and competency assessment? Is it paid time? Who will supervise me, and how
  often?"

## How do I prepare for the RBT exam?

The exam is based on the RBT Test Content Outline (3rd ed.). Tips are in [How do I pass the RBT exam?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/rbt-exam-tips)

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] Read the RBT Handbook
- [ ] Create a BACB account
- [ ] Choose a 40-hour training that meets 2026 requirements
- [ ] Line up a supervisor or an employer who provides one

Read next: [What is an RBT?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/what-is-an-rbt)

## Common questions

### How long does it take to become an RBT?

The 40-hour training must take at least 5 days and no more than 180 days. After that come the competency assessment, application review and exam, so many people finish in one to three months.

### Can I take the 40-hour training online?

Yes. The 2026 requirements allow in-person or online training, as long as it covers the curriculum and includes behavioral skills training components.

### Does my old 40-hour training still count?

If you apply on or after January 1, 2026, your training must meet the 2026 requirements. The BACB says there's no bridge course; you'd complete the full new training.

## Sources

1. Behavior Analyst Certification Board: Guidance for meeting RBT requirements during the 2026 transition. https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/RBT-2026-Requirements_250723-a.pdf
2. Behavior Analyst Certification Board: RBT 2026 40-hour training requirements and curriculum outline. https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2026-RBT-40-Hour-Training-Curriculum-260313-a.pdf
3. Behavior Analyst Certification Board: RBT Handbook. https://www.bacb.com/rbt-handbook/

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.