Streamlining the RBT® Certification Process: Key Changes Coming in 2025

Dec 19 / Barbie Mendoza, BA, Certified ECE

Upcoming Changes to the RBT® Certification Application Process

Starting January 2, 2025, the RBT® certification application will undergo key updates to simplify and streamline the process:

  1. Single-Step Application: The new application can be completed in one sitting by the applicant, eliminating the need for supervisor logins.
  2. Attestation Form: A BCBA- or BCaBA-certified attestor will confirm the applicant’s age, background check, and education requirements on a new form, which applicants will upload.
  3. Education Proof Simplified: Applicants will no longer submit a diploma; attestations will suffice.
  4. Supervisor Identification Shift: Ongoing supervisors are no longer identified during application. Certification remains inactive until supervisors link supervisees post-exam.

BOARD CERTIFIED ASSISTANT BEHAVIOR ANALYST® (BCaBA®)

What is BCaBA® Certification?
The Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst® (BCaBA®) is a certification for professionals with undergraduate-level training in behavior analysis. BCaBAs work under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts® (BCBAs®) and may oversee the work of Registered Behavior Technicians® (RBTs®). This role ensures proper implementation of behavior-analytic services under the guidance of a qualified BCBA®.

Explore the BCBA® Application
Self-Assessment Tool

Are you pursuing BCBA® certification or supervising someone who is? The BCBA® Application Self-Assessment Tool can help you navigate the process, outline next steps, and connect you with valuable resources. 

RBT® Supervisor Structure

RBT® Supervisors are responsible for overseeing RBT® services and ensuring monthly supervision requirements are met.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Providing monthly supervision that includes observations and supervision contacts.
  • Overseeing all services provided by the RBT®.
  • Offering feedback, training, and professional development.
  • Listing all RBT®s supervised in their BACB account and maintaining accurate records.
  • Removing RBT®s they no longer supervise and ensure compliance during audits.

RBT® Requirements Coordinator Structure
In this model, the RBT® has one Requirements Coordinator and multiple Supervisors.
The Coordinator ensures all supervision requirements are met, and only they are listed in the BACB account. Supervisors work together to meet supervision needs.

Considerations for the Coordinator Model
For successful implementation, consider:
  • Transparent processes for tracking supervision compliance.
  • Clear communication systems among Supervisors.
  • Documentation systems for audits.
  • Verification of supervisor qualifications before supervision.

Recent and Upcoming Changes

Have you heard about the recent and upcoming updates to the certification requirements? If not, now is the perfect time to explore and familiarize yourself with the changes to the BACB®'s guidelines to ensure you stay informed and prepared.

Introducing the 2025 BCBA® and
BCaBA® Examinations

The BACB® has announced the introduction of the 2025 BCBA® and BCaBA® examinations, bringing significant updates to the certification process.
These new exams are designed to align more closely with current standards and practices in applied behavior analysis, ensuring that newly certified professionals are well-prepared to meet the demands of the field. The updated examinations reflect advancements in research and practice, with a focus on maintaining the highest quality and rigor in the certification process.
The announcement includes a detailed timeline to help candidates transition smoothly to the new exam format. To support preparation, the BACB® plans to release updated task lists and practice resources, providing candidates with the tools they need to succeed. This initiative highlights the BACB®’s ongoing commitment to fostering professional excellence and adapting to the evolving landscape of behavior analysis.
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