RBT Renewal 2026: Step-by-Step Guide
Every year around the same time, I see RBTs panicking in my inbox:
“Crystal… is my certification about to expire?”
“Do I need CEUs?”
“Has BACB changed the rules again?”
If you’re feeling the same, breathe — renewal is much easier in 2025 than most people think. I’ve walked many new and seasoned RBTs through their renewals, and once you understand the process, you’ll never stress over deadlines again.
This complete guide covers:
- What the renewal requires
- Updated BACB rules for 2025
- CEU expectations
- How long RBT certification lasts
- Renewal fees
- The step-by-step renewal process
- Competency assessment requirements
- Real tips I give to my own students
Let’s break it all down clearly.
How Long Does RBT Certification Last?
Your RBT certification is valid for 1 year (12 months) from your initial certification date — not from the date you took training or passed your exam.
Example:
If you became an RBT on March 14, 2025, then your certification expires March 14, 2026.
If you’re unsure about your timeline, review the full RBT certification pathway here:
https://ihatecbts.net/rbt/
Quick Renewal Facts
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Expiration timeline | Every 12 months |
| Must complete new competency? | Yes — annual renewal competency required |
| Renewal fee | $35 (BACB fee) |
| Supervision requirement | Ongoing monthly supervision |
| CEUs required? | No — RBTs do not earn CEUs |
One misconception I correct often is this:
RBTs do NOT need CEUs for renewal.
That applies to BCBAs and BCaBAs only.
Official BACB page:
https://www.bacb.com/rbt/
RBT CEU Requirements for 2025–2026
Let me say it clearly:
- RBTs do not complete CEUs.
- BCBAs complete CEUs.
- RBTs complete a Renewal Competency Assessment plus supervision.
Why the confusion exists:
- Some agencies say “training hours”
- Clinics schedule CEU-style meetings
- Some supervisors call workshops “CEUs” even when they aren’t
Actual RBT Renewal Requirements (2026)
- Monthly supervision: minimum 5% of hours
- Updated background check (every 12 months)
- Annual Renewal Competency Assessment
- Online renewal application + $35 fee
- Supervisor attestation confirming all requirements
If you want to review the full competency expectations, use this guide:
https://ihatecbts.net/rbt-competency-assessment-2024-initial-renewal-checklist-examples/
Step-by-Step RBT Renewal Process (2026)
This is the exact breakdown I give to learners every renewal season.
Step 1 — Calculate Your Renewal Window
You can renew 45 days before your expiration date.
BACB sends reminders, but do not rely on them.
If you want to confirm your original certification path, review:
https://ihatecbts.net/rbt-exam/
Step 2 — Complete Your Renewal Competency Assessment
A BCBA must evaluate your skills using the Renewal Competency checklist.
This includes:
- measurement
- documentation
- following Behavior Intervention Plans
- implementing reinforcement
- running skill-acquisition programs
- professionalism
For help mastering these tasks:
- Measurement (ABC data, recording): https://ihatecbts.net/rbt-study-guide-unit-a-measurement/
- Behavior Reduction: https://ihatecbts.net/rbt-study-guide-unit-d-behavior-reduction/
- Documentation expectations: https://ihatecbts.net/unit-e-documentation-and-reporting/
Step 3 — Update Your Background Check
Your background check must be no more than 6 months old at the time of renewal.
Step 4 — Ensure Monthly Supervision Was Completed
You must have:
- 5% of ABA hours supervised
- at least 2 meetings per month
- at least 1 client observation
This aligns with the professional expectations here:
https://ihatecbts.net/unit-f-professional-conduct-and-scope-of-practice-for-rbts/
Outbound reference:
https://childmind.org/
Step 5 — Submit Your Online Renewal to BACB
Inside your BACB account:
- upload the competency form
- upload background check
- submit supervisor attestation
- pay the $35 fee
Approvals typically take 1–3 days.
RBT Renewal Requirements (2026 Full Table)
| Requirement | New RBT | Renewing RBT (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| 40-hour training | Required | Not required |
| Initial competency | Required | Not required |
| Renewal competency | Not required | Required |
| Monthly supervision | Required | Required |
| Background check | Required | Required |
| Renewal fee | After certification | $35/year |
| CEUs | Not required | Not required |
Common Renewal Questions (From Real Students)
Do I need to retake the RBT exam?
No — unless your certification fully expires.
Review exam details:
https://ihatecbts.net/rbt-exam/
Can I renew without a supervisor?
No, a BCBA must provide attestation.
How long does the renewal competency take?
Usually 1–3 hours depending on agency procedures.
What if I miss my renewal date?
BACB gives a 30-day grace period, but you cannot work during it.
Do RBT hours expire?
No — only your certification expires.
Personal Advice I Give Every Student
Do not wait until the last two weeks to renew.
Supervisors get busy, and delays can cause accidental lapses.
I always recommend keeping a folder titled “RBT Renewal 2026” with:
- competency form
- supervision notes
- background check copy
- renewal receipt
It makes every renewal easier.
Final Words for Your Readers
Renewal isn’t something to fear — hundreds of RBTs complete it successfully every year.
If you stay:
- supervised
- organized
- up-to-date with documentation
…you will never have issues with BACB.
The 2026 renewal system is clearer and smoother than ever.
