- New applicants need the 2026 40-hour training and the updated competency assessment.
- RBTs move to a 2-year recertification cycle.
- Instead of an annual competency assessment, RBTs complete 12 PDUs per cycle.
- Supervision rules didn't change: 5% monthly, 2 contacts, 1 individual.
What changed for new RBT applicants?
If you apply on or after January 1, 2026:1
- Your 40-hour training must follow the 2026 curriculum and include the new approval statement on the certificate.
- Trainers must be active BCBAs or BCaBAs who've completed the 8-hour supervision training. Assistant trainers need RBT certification or higher.
- The RBT Initial Competency Assessment was updated, and assistant assessors must hold RBT certification or higher.
- The training takes at least 5 days and no more than 180 days, and at least 20 of the 40 hours cover behavior-change interventions.2
There's no bridge course: if your old training doesn't meet 2026 requirements, you complete the full new training.1
What changed for current RBTs?
| Year | Current RBTs | New RBTs |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Recertify with the Recertification Competency Assessment; next date is 2 years later | 2-year window from certification |
| 2027 | No recertification needed; start uploading PDUs | 2-year window |
| 2028 | Complete 12 PDUs and apply (no competency assessment) | 2-year window |
Source: BACB 2026 transition guidance.1
How do RBTs earn PDUs?
Three ways:1
- In-service training from the organization where the RBT works
- ACE provider events
- Behavior-analytic university coursework with a C or better
What stayed the same?
- Eligibility: 18+, high school education, background and abuse registry checks
- Supervision: at least 5% of service hours per month, two face-to-face contacts, one individual1
What should I do now?
0 of 3 done
Read next: How do I become an RBT?
