The Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) exam is a requirement if you want to work as a technician in Applied Behavior Analysis. The credential is offered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), and passing this exam signifies a candidate’s competency in the 6 domains required of a RBT. This blog will address commonly asked questions and provide essential information about the RBT exam, including preparation tips, exam structure, and post-exam procedures.
Who Should Take the RBT Exam?
The RBT exam is intended for individuals who want to work directly with clients in the field of ABA, although the exam and certification may be valuable for parents or other practitioners as well. The RBT certification is the most common starting place for those who want to have a career in Applied Behavior Analysis. It is also a valuable first step towards the BCBA certification. While the exam is open to anyone who meets the eligibility requirements, it is especially relevant for paraprofessionals, therapists, and educators working with individuals requiring behavior-analytic services.
What are the Requirements for the Behavior Technician Exam?
To be eligible to take the RBT exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Background Check: Candidates must pass a background check as part of the application process.
- Training: Completion of a 40-hour RBT training course that covers the RBT Task List, ethics, and relevant skills. The training must be conducted by a qualified BCBA or BCaBA.
- Competency Assessment: Candidates must pass an initial competency assessment conducted by a BCBA or BCaBA. This assessment involves demonstrating proficiency in various tasks listed in the RBT Task List.
What Does the RBT Exam Cover?
The RBT exam is currently based on the 2nd edition RBT Task List, which outlines the core competencies required for the role. The exam covers the following areas:
- Measurement (12 questions): Understanding and applying data collection methods, including frequency, duration, and latency measurements.
- Assessment (6 questions): Knowledge of assessment procedures, including conducting preference assessments and identifying client preferences.
- Skill Acquisition (24 questions): Implementing skill acquisition plans, using reinforcement, prompting, and fading techniques.
- Behavior Reduction (12 questions): Understanding behavior reduction strategies, including identifying and implementing antecedent modifications and consequence interventions.
- Documentation and Reporting (10 questions): Accurate data recording, progress notes, and communication with supervisors.
- Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice (11 questions): Adherence to ethical guidelines and understanding the scope of practice for an RBT.
What is the Structure of the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Exam?
The RBT exam is a computer-based test administered at Pearson VUE testing centers. You have one year after your application is approved to take your exam. If you do not pass your exam within that year then you must go through the application process again. The exam costs $45, and the certification application process costs $50. Here’s what you can expect:
- Number of Questions: The exam consists of 85 multiple-choice questions, with 75 being scored and 10 being unscored pilot questions.
- Time Limit: Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the exam.
- Question Format: The questions are designed to test both knowledge and application. They may involve scenarios where candidates must choose the best course of action based on the RBT Task List and ethical guidelines. We recommend our RBT Practice Exams and RBT study guide to help you best prepare for the exam.
Are There RBT Exam Accomodations?
Accommodations are available for people with disabilities. You must use the accommodation request from from the BACB which requires professional documentation of your need for accommodations. Documentation should include your disability, the need for accommodations, and may be in the form of letters, reports, test results, or prior accommodation documentation. The accommodation review typically takes anywhere from 10 to 14 days.
What to Do After You Pass the RBT Exam
After passing the RBT exam, candidates will follow several steps to being their career as an RBT and maintain their good standing with the BACB:
- RBT Certification: You will find out if you passed on the day of the exam. Once you pass the exam, the BACB will notify you, and you will be listed in their online registry as a certified RBT.
- Maintain Certification: To maintain your RBT certification, you must adhere to ongoing supervision requirements, participate in continuing education, and renew your certification annually. Renewal involves redoing the RBT competency assessment and paying the renewal fee.
- Supervision Requirements: RBTs must work under the ongoing supervision of a BCBA. The BACB requires at least 5% of the hours spent providing behavior-analytic services per month to be supervised. It is your responsibility as the behavior technician to keep track of your hours every month and to maintain the proper documentation.
What If You Don’t Pass the RBT Exam?
If you do not pass the RBT exam on your first attempt, don’t be discouraged – it is not uncommon to have to take the exam multiple times. If you do fail, candidates can retake the exam after a 7-day waiting period. It’s important to use this time to review your performance and identify areas that need improvement. A great place to start is the ABA Exam Review YouTube Channel. You should also review the RBT Task List and take practice exams. You can take the exam up to 8 times within your 12-month application time frame.