RBT 40-Hour Training: What You Need to Know

If you are interested in becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), you will need to complete a minimum of 40 hours of training approved by the behavior analyst Certification Board (BACB). Many people search for free options to complete this training. Here is what you need to know about RBT training requirements, costs, and available options.

RBT Training Requirements

The BACB requires all RBT candidates to complete the following steps:

1. 40-Hour Training. Complete at least 40 hours of training based on the RBT Task List (2nd Edition). Training must be completed within 180 days of starting.
2. Competency Assessment. Pass a competency assessment conducted by a BCBA or BCaBA. This assessment evaluates your ability to apply the skills covered in training.
3. Background Check. Complete a criminal background check through the BACB.
4. RBT Exam. Pass the RBT certification exam administered by the BACB. The exam costs $45.

Are There Free RBT Training Programs?

Truly free, comprehensive 40-hour RBT training programs are rare. However, several options can reduce or eliminate the cost:

Employer-Sponsored Training

Many ABA therapy providers, including Treetop ABA Therapy, provide free RBT training to employees. This is the most common way to get free training. When you are hired as a behavior technician, the company covers the cost of your 40-hour training and often provides supervision for the competency assessment as well.

This approach has several advantages:

• No out-of-pocket training costs
• Training is supervised and hands-on
• You gain practical experience alongside classroom learning
• The employer typically covers the exam fee and background check costs

Nonprofit and Community Organizations

Some nonprofit organizations focused on autism awareness and behavioral health offer free or subsidized RBT training workshops. Availability varies by region and may require checking with local autism organizations or community centers.

Free Online Resources (Partial Training)

Several websites offer free educational content related to ABA and the RBT task list. These resources can supplement formal training but typically do not satisfy the BACB’s 40-hour requirement on their own. To count toward certification, training must be conducted or supervised by a qualified BCBA.

Paid Training Options

If employer-sponsored training is not available to you, several organizations offer paid 40-hour RBT training programs:

Provider	Format	Approximate Cost
Relias Academy	Online, self-paced	$99
Special Learning	Online, self-paced	Varies
BehaviorFront	Online, self-paced	$79

Note: Prices are approximate and may change. Always verify with the provider that their program meets current BACB requirements before enrolling.

What the 40-Hour Training Covers

The RBT 40-hour training is based on the BACB’s RBT Task List (2nd Edition) and covers the following areas:

• Measurement and Assessment. Collecting and recording data on behavior.
• Skill Acquisition. Teaching new skills using ABA techniques like discrete trial training, naturalistic teaching, and task analysis.
• Behavior Reduction. Understanding why problem behavior occurs and implementing strategies to reduce it through positive approaches.
• Documentation and Reporting. Maintaining accurate records and communicating with supervising BCBAs.
• Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice. Understanding the RBT Ethics Code and working within the scope of the RBT role.

Tips for Choosing a Training Program

• Verify that the program is aligned with the current BACB RBT Task List.
• Check whether the program includes the competency assessment or if that must be arranged separately.
• Look for programs that include practice exercises, quizzes, and real-world examples.
• If choosing an online program, confirm it meets the BACB’s requirements for distance training.

Careers in ABA Therapy

Becoming an RBT is often the first step in a career in ABA therapy. RBTs work directly with children with autism under the supervision of a BCBA, implementing therapy plans and helping children build essential skills.

At Treetop ABA Therapy, we provide comprehensive training and ongoing supervision for our RBTs. We are always looking for passionate individuals to join our team across multiple states. Visit our careers page to see current openings.

For information about RBT compensation, see our guide to average RBT salaries by state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get RBT training for free?

The most common way to get free RBT training is through an employer. Many ABA therapy companies, including Treetop ABA Therapy, provide the 40-hour training at no cost to employees hired as behavior technicians.

How long does RBT training take?

The training requires a minimum of 40 hours and must be completed within 180 days of starting. Many online programs can be completed in one to two weeks of full-time study.

Is the RBT exam hard?

The RBT exam tests your understanding of ABA principles and the RBT task list. With thorough preparation through a quality training program and study of the BACB’s RBT Task List, most candidates pass on their first attempt.

What is the difference between an RBT and a BCBA?

An RBT is an entry-level position that requires 40 hours of training and a high school diploma. A BCBA requires a master’s degree, additional coursework, and supervised fieldwork hours. BCBAs design treatment plans and supervise RBTs.

Does Treetop ABA Therapy hire and train RBTs?

Yes. We hire behavior technicians and provide the 40-hour RBT training as part of onboarding. We offer competitive pay and benefits. View our current openings or contact us to learn more.