# What changed for RBTs in 2026?

> The new 40-hour training, the updated competency assessment, 2-year recertification and professional development units.

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

**Short answer:** Since January 1, 2026, new RBT applicants need a 40-hour training that follows the BACB's 2026 curriculum and an updated Initial Competency Assessment. RBTs are moving from a 1-year to a 2-year recertification cycle, and instead of an annual competency assessment they'll complete 12 professional development units (PDUs) per cycle. Supervision rules stay the same.

**Key takeaways**
- 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]

1. **In-service training** from the organization where the RBT works
2. **ACE provider** events
3. **Behavior-analytic university coursework** with a C or better

**For supervisors and clinic leaders.** Plan in-service trainings that count as PDUs. Topics RBTs value: assent-based practice, naturalistic teaching, data
  collection and visual supports.

## 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 individual[1]

**Inactive status.** RBTs returning from voluntary inactive status complete a Reentry Competency Assessment. Check the BACB guidance for
  how the 2-year cycle applies to you.

## What should I do now?

- [ ] Check your next recertification date in your BACB account
- [ ] Plan how you'll earn 12 PDUs
- [ ] Ask your employer which in-services count

Read next: [How do I become an RBT?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/how-to-become-an-rbt)

## Common questions

### When do current RBTs start earning PDUs?

Current RBTs recertify in 2026 using the RBT Recertification Competency Assessment, then move to a 2-year cycle. They need 12 PDUs before their next recertification, which for most will be in 2028.

### Where can RBTs earn PDUs?

Through in-service training at the organization where they work, events from ACE providers, or behavior-analytic university coursework with a C or better.

### Did RBT supervision rules change?

No. RBTs still need supervision for at least 5% of service hours each month, including two face-to-face contacts, one of them individual.

## 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

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