Do Current RBTs Need to Take a 3rd Edition RBT Course in 2026?
- Ashleigh Evans (BCBA)
- 4 hours ago
- 3 min read
With the shift to the RBT 3rd Edition training requirements, many people have had questions, and unfortunately, misinformation has spread. One question that comes up frequently is whether current RBTs must meet the 3rd Edition requirements, including completing a new 40-hour training course.
The short answer is: No! If you're already an actively certified RBT, you don't need to take a new 40-hour RBT course to recertify.
Once you earn BACB certification, you don't need to meet new training requirements when a new edition exists. Eligibility requirements are for those who are applying for certification, not those already certified.
What If My RBT Certification Lapsed?
If you became RBT-certified prior to 2026 but missed recertification, you need to reapply for certification. In this case, you would need to meet the current 3rd edition criteria, including taking a new course.
What If I'm On Voluntary Inactive Status?
If you've been approved for a voluntary inactive status, you don't need to take a new training course when you return. However, you will need to complete a reentry competency assessment with your BCBA.
When Do RBT Training Certificates Expire?
RBT training certificates only "expire" when a new edition is implemented. There's a common misconception that when you complete an RBT training, that certification is only good for 6 or 12 months.
The truth is, when you pass an RBT 40-hour training course, you receive a certificate of completion verifying you have successfully completed the course. You need that certificate to apply for RBT certification. That certificate only expires when the BACB initiates a new training curriculum (about every 5-7 years).
With this, if you completed a 3rd edition course early in 2026, but never got around to doing the competency assessment and applying for certification until a year later, you could still use that course completion certificate to apply.
An initial competency assessment, however, does expire. It must be completed within 90 days of applying for certification.
What Changed in the 3rd Edition?
You can learn more about what changed with the shift to the 3rd edition in this article.
Can You Still Apply for Certification Under the 2nd Edition?
No! All RBT applicants moving forward must have a 3rd edition course certificate before applying for certification.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect for Certification Maintenance
Initial eligibility isn't the only major change that hit the field this year. There are also changes to certification maintenance, creating confusion. Let's break down what to expect.
In 2026, all existing RBTs will complete a renewal competency assessment before they can apply for recertification. Then their 2-year cycle will begin, and they can start accruing professional development units (PDUs). You can't count PDUs before your 2-year cycle starts, so keep that in mind when planning ahead. Note: NEW RBTs do not need to complete a renewal competency assessment, but the requirement for an initial one has not changed.
In 2027, there won't be any recertifications. RBTs will continue attending professional development events and gaining PDUs.
In 2028, RBTs certified in 2026 or earlier will complete recertification with their 12 PDUs. No renewal competency assessments will be completed unless someone is returning from a voluntary inactive status.
Note of clarity: RBTs certified in 2027 will have a recertification date in 2029.
Changes to certification and maintenance change, so keep an eye on communication from the BACB. As always, ABA Resource Center is committed to keeping our readers informed when changes arise as well. Click here to subscribe to our emails, so you don't miss future updates.