BACB Changes in 2026: Key Updates for RBTs, Supervisors, and ACE Providers
- Ashleigh Evans (BCBA)
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
If it feels like something is always changing with BACB requirements, you're not alone. With several BACB changes recently being implemented and more on the way, it can be hard to keep up. As 2026 is quickly approaching, let's review what's changing in the new year. This article will break down what to expect, including major changes to RBT certification.
RBT Certification and Maintenance
Starting January 1, 2026, the new 3rd Edition RBT Test Content Outline (TCO), formerly known as the Task List, will go into effect. With this, all new applicants in 2026 must take a 40-hour RBT training that's based on the 2026 40-Hour Training Requirements and Curriculum Outline. With 2026 is only weeks away, aspiring behavior technicians and ABA practices must plan accordingly to ensure courses are aligned with the correct version, depending on when they apply.
Here's an overview of what's changing with RBT certification.
General Eligibility: No Changes
The BACB isn’t making any updates to basic eligibility requirements. RBT applicants must still:
Be at least 18 years old
Hold a high school diploma or GED
Pass a criminal background check and abuse registry check
RBT Course Changes
Come 2026, all 40-hour courses must meet the new requirements. The content must align with the 3rd edition TCO and include minimum durations for each content section. For example, half of the 40 hours has to be dedicated to Domain E: Behavior-Change Interventions.
The other changes to the course are related to trainer qualifications. Responsible trainers, who can be a BCaBA, BCBA, or BCBA-D, must have completed the 8-hour supervision training. If assistant trainers help out, they must hold a BACB certification of RBT or higher.
What this means for RBT candidates: The main thing you want to pay attention to before you take an RBT training is which version it is. If you're 100% confident that you'll be able to finish your course and all other requirements with enough time to apply to take the exam before December 31, 2025, then you can choose a 2nd edition course. If it's more likely you won't apply until after the new year, choose a 3rd-edition course. Some training providers, like ATCC, meet the requirements of both editions, which is a good option if you're unsure of exactly when you'll be applying.
What this means for ABA providers: Ensure your team is ready with a 3rd-edition-compliant training course.
RBT Initial Competency Assessments
There will be a few minor revisions to the RBT Initial Competency Assessment. Also, assistant assessors must now hold RBT certification or above. Non-certified clinicians cannot administer or assist in the evaluation.
What this means for RBT candidates: The step between the 40-hour course and exam is a competency assessment. There aren't any major changes happening with this, but if you're familiar with the competency assessment, you may notice a few slight changes.
What this means for ABA providers: Make sure you use the updated version of the competency assessment when evaluating candidates in 2026. A simple error, like using the old version, can result in a denied application. Also, ensure assistant assessors are RBT-certified.
RBT Maintenance & Recertification
Beginning in 2026, RBTs will move to a 2-year cycle, similar to BCBAs and BCaBAs. Additionally, the RBT Renewal Competency Assessment is being eliminated for everyone except those returning from voluntary inactive status. That assessment is being replaced with a requirement to complete 12 hours of professional development to recertify.
With these changes, the cost to apply for certification and recertification is going up. The original application fee will be $65, and recertification will be $50. But don't forget, RBTs will only need to renew every other year. $50 every 2 years is less than $35 every year!
What this means for RBT candidates: You'll have more time in between certification renewals, won't have to complete annual competency assessments, and you'll get to further develop your skillset through professional development.
If you're a current RBT, don't worry about continuing education just yet, though! You won't start counting professional development hours until after your 2026 renewal. In 2026, all RBTs who got certified in 2025 or prior will do one last renewal with a competency assessment. Once that renewal is approved, your 2-year cycle will start, and you can begin accumulating professional development units.
What this means for ABA providers: Prepare for one last round of competency assessment renewals in 2026. Additionally, if you haven't yet, begin identifying professional development opportunities for your staff.
Pathway 2 Changes
ABAI's Verified Course Sequence (VCS) system will be discontinued. However, individuals can still apply through Pathway 2. To do so, they'll need a university faculty member who is designated as a Pathway 2 Program Contact to submit a coursework attestation.
What this means for BCBA and BCaBA candidates: Be cautious when selecting a program. When considering programs, ensure they have a Pathway 2 Program Contact who can attest that the program met the minimum qualifications.
International Certification
As of January 1st, 2026, UK residents can no longer apply for BACB certification. Current certificants can maintain their certification.
As of July 1st, 2026, Ontario residents can no longer apply for BCBA/BCBA-D certification. Current certificants can maintain their certification.
ACE Event Changes & Provider Requirements
While this may not impact many, it's worth highlighting that the BACB is making changes to Authorized Continuing Education (ACE) events and provider requirements. On July 1, 2026, the following changes go into effect:
Reading an article with a knowledge check cannot count as an ACE event.
Co-presenters who aren't qualified as an ACE instructor can only present a portion of the event.
Organization-level ACE providers need to be legal entities.
ACE instructor qualifications:
Hold an active BCBA certification, a doctorate in behavior analysis, or a doctorate + other requirements
Demonstrated expertise in the topic they're presenting on (e.g., peer-reviewed research, 5+ years of practical experience, 3+ years teaching on the subject, or a combination).
BACB Updates: Preparing for 2026 and Beyond
These updates represent a shift in how the field trains and supports clinicians. As 2026 quickly approaches, now is the time to ensure you understand updates to BACB requirements. Because certification standards continue to evolve, RBTs, BCBAs, BCaBAs, and ABA organizational leaders should stay informed about upcoming changes. Be sure to subscribe to BACB emails, so you get updates on future newsletters.
Additional Resources
Explore the following resources to learn more about recent and future changes from the BACB.
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