RBT Practice Exam

RBTs or Registered Behavior Technicians are professionals who consult ABA or Applied Behavior Analysis clients. RBTs provide assistance in delivering services related to behavior analysis and work under the close supervision and direction of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA), who is responsible for all work performed by an RBT. In short, just like a highly skilled nurse is to a Doctor, an RBT is to a BCBA. 

To get started with your practice as an RBT, you are first required to pass the RBT certification exam, which is an assessment that measures how efficiently a Registered Behaviour Technician is able to perform the six primary duties defined by the BACB (Behavior Analyst Certification Board). The RBT is a computer-based test administered under Pearson VUE.

You are only allowed to take the RBT examination if you have successfully completed the compulsory 40-hour RBT training and a behavioral therapist has evaluated it in person to ensure that you possess all the essential competencies. Apart from providing you the eligibility to take the RBT exam, it also prepares you for the same, as the training is entirely based on the 6 components that are the foundation of the Registered Behavior Technicians certification assessment. 

Under this comprehensive guide, we will closely analyze every factor of the MBLEx exam, break down the exam procedures, and provide bona fide guidance to help aid your preparation. From the exam’s structure to preparation strategy, everything that has the potential to significantly impact your exam score, we have covered it all in detail. 

Question Types Explained

The BACB’s RBT task list outlines the main responsibilities that an RBT is typically expected to handle with most, if not all, clients. RBT supervisors aren’t allowed to assign tasks outside of what’s listed, given that these are the duties a behavior technician is trained and certified to perform as a Registered Behavior Technician.

The RBT task list forms the core of both the RBT exam and the mandatory RBT training. The table below breaks down the key content areas covered in the RBT task list:

Let’s delve deeper into each section, focusing on making each part substantial and relevant for RBT exam preppers.

A.) Measurement

What is Assessed:
Observable behaviors sit at the heart of ABA. This section dives into the nuanced ways in which such behaviors are measured and recorded, ensuring that you’re not just observing, but quantifying progress and challenges.

Skills Required:

• Preparation for data collection
• Techniques of continuous measurement like duration and frequency
• Mastery of discontinuous measurement, such as partial and complete interval sampling and momentary time sampling
• Grasping intermittent measurement procedures
• Execution of permanent-product recording procedures
• Regularly updating graphs and entering accurate data
• Articulating both the environment and behavior in terms that are both measurable and observable

B.) Assessment

What is Assessed:
Here we gauge your capability to support and enhance the assessment processes crucial to behavioral therapy. This isn’t about replacing the BCBA but complementing their work by being an effective assistant.

Skills Required:

• Skillfully conducting preference assessments
• Assisting with individualized assessment processes, including social, curriculum-based, and developmental evaluations
• Supporting functional assessment procedures

C.) Skill Acquisition

What is Assessed:
This is a robust section focusing on the nuances of behavioral training. It covers the breadth of foundational skills from understanding plans to effective application.

Skills Required:

• Recognizing components of a written skill acquisition plan
• Preparing for sessions
• Using reinforcement, including conditioned and unconditioned reinforcement
• Implementing various teaching strategies from discrete-trial teaching to naturalistic approaches
• Applying task-analyzed chaining and discrimination training
• Transferring stimulus control
• Incorporating prompt and fading methods
• Ensuring maintenance and generalization

D.) Behavior Reduction

What is Assessed:
It’s all about promoting positive behaviors and reducing undesirable ones. This section assesses your competence in implementing behavior modification techniques.

Skills Required:

• Recognizing the crux of a behavior reduction plan
• Identifying standard functions of behavior
• Modifying antecedents, like motivating operations
• Applying differential reinforcement (e.g., DRA, DRO)
• Executing extinction procedures

E.) Documentation and Reporting

What is Assessed:
Your documentation skills are in the limelight here. Good record-keeping ensures progress is tracked, challenges are highlighted, and the entire team is on the same page.

Skills Required:

• Consistently and effectively communicating with supervisors
• Promptly seeking guidance when faced with clinical dilemmas
• Reporting variables affecting the client timely
• Crafting objective session notes

F.) Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice

What is Assessed:
Professionalism is paramount. This section evaluates your understanding of the ethical and professional boundaries as an RBT.

Skills Required:

• Grasping BACB’s RBT supervision requirements
• Responding constructively to feedback
• Keeping open channels of communication with stakeholders, yet preserving boundaries

Preparation Strategies

The process of preparing for the RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) test requires a comprehensive study regimen and effective study methods. Here are a few unique study methods that will improve your results:

1. Utilize Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Resources: The RBT exam’s foundation is ABA. Use ABA resources, including books, journals, and online courses like iPREP to improve your comprehension of the ideas and principles. To expand your understanding, look for case studies and examples from real-world situations.

2. Seek Hands-On Experience: For the RBT test, practical experience is crucial for success. Think about doing volunteer work or employment in ABA therapy-related environments. Your knowledge will be strengthened by practical experience, which will also provide you with important insights into how to use ABA concepts in practical situations.

3. Create Flashcards for Key Concepts: To review key phrases, definitions, and concepts, use flashcards. On one side, type out the phrase, and on the other, its meaning or explanation. To strengthen your comprehension and increase remember throughout the test, periodically review the flashcards.

4. Practice with Scenario-Based Questions: ABA concepts are frequently tested on the RBT exam through scenario-based questions that gauge your ability to apply them in real-world circumstances. Look for practice tests or question banks that include scenario-based questions, then take the time to go through each one, choose the best course of action, and choose your best answer.

5. Form a Study Group: Working together with people who are studying for the RBT test might be helpful. Join forces with other RBT candidates or experts in the topic to form a study group. Your comprehension can be improved, and new angles on difficult subjects can be provided by talking about and discussing concepts with one another.

6. Use Visual Aids and Diagrams: You may visualize complicated concepts and relationships with the use of visual aids like flowcharts, diagrams, and graphs. To improve your comprehension of ABA principles and how they are used, make your own visual aids or discover ready-made ones online.

7. Take Practice Exams under Timed Conditions: By taking practice examinations in a timed environment, you may get more familiar with the format of the exam and improve your test-taking skills. You’ll be able to answer questions more quickly, more efficiently manage your time, and with greater confidence if you do this.

8. Review Ethical Guidelines and Professional Conduct: Ethical issues and professional behavior are topics included in the RBT test. Learn about the moral principles and professional conduct required by the (BACB) Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Pay attention to situations that provide ethical quandaries and learn how to put the rules into practice.

Here’s an advice from a test taker:

“I took my text a few months ago, and my best advice is the less stressed you are, the better mindset you’ll be in and the better you’ll do. also remember how good you do doesn’t affect you, you just have to pass a 70% and a 100% are the exact same.”

Source: Reddit/xoxoemmma

Test Features

Advantages of obtaining RBT certification

There are a number of benefits associated with RBT certification, which include:

• It reflects that you abide by specific requirements which are crucial in providing behavior analysis services.

• It provides better consumer protection as you are required to meet a few eligibility (e.g., meet certain knowledge requirements, pass a background check) and maintenance (e.g., adhere to an ethics code, receive ongoing supervision) requirements to obtain and maintain certification.

• It simplifies for consumers, employers, funders, etc., to verify that you have certain knowledge, abilities, and skills; have appropriate oversight; and no disciplinary sanctions are implemented on you. 

• It is a broadly respected and recognized credential since it is offered by a respected body BACB, the first organization in the nation to provide a certification for behavior analysis professionals.

Examination Rescheduling/Cancellation

A candidate may reschedule or cancel an appointment as per his preference. However, any appointment rescheduled or canceled within 30 days of the initial examination date is subject to a fee. If a candidate is within 48 hours of their appointment, rescheduling or cancellation is not possible, and also, no refunds would be issued for the same. 

The rescheduling and cancellation fee structure is as follows:

Cancellation Time Period	Cancellation/Rescheduling Fee
5 days–48 hours prior to examination appointment	$32
30 da9+ys–5 days prior to examination appointment	$27
31 days or more prior to examination appointment	no fee

Certain Maintenance Requirements

You must meet specified maintenance criteria as an RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) in order to keep your certification. These standards make sure that you get the right kind of supervision, maintain your proficiency in key behavior technician skills, and continue to act ethically. The following are the major upkeep requirements:

Ongoing Supervision: RBTs are required to undergo continuing supervision that complies with the standards for RBT supervision, supervisors, and documentation. In order to continue  offering effective behavior analysis services and get direction from a certified supervisor, this supervision is necessary.

Adherence to the RBT Ethics Code: RBTs are required to abide by the RBT Ethics Code, which describes the moral and professional principles that they should uphold when practicing. The public and customers are protected by these standards, which also guarantee the provision of high-quality services. 

Self-reporting Requirements: Any instances of the RBT Ethics Code being broken or any other unethical activity that RBTs become aware of must be self-reported. A key component of preserving the reputation of the behavior analysis profession is self-reporting.

RBT Renewal Application: Every year, RBTs must complete an application for RBT renewal.  This application contains pertinent data and supporting paperwork to confirm your ongoing adherence to certification standards.

RBT Renewal Competency Assessment: RBTs must complete a Renewal Competency Assessment as part of the renewal procedure. This test measures how well you continue to perform important behavior technician skills.

Payment of Fees: You must pay the required renewal fees as stipulated by the certifying authority in order to keep your RBT certification current.

You may maintain the validity of your RBT certification and continue to deliver efficient behavior analysis services ethically and competently by meeting these maintenance criteria. It’s crucial to be informed about any modifications or updates made to these standards by the applicable certifying body or board.

Changes in RBT Certification

Changes that occurred in the procedures of the RBT certification are summarized in the following table:

Eligibility Requirements	Changes	Implementation Date
Applicant Age (18 years)	No change	N/A
Applicant Education (high school or equivalent)
(high school or equivalent) Background Check
RBT Task List	The following tasks have been added: • Apply shaping procedures • Apply token economy practices • Actively seek clinical guidance from the supervisor, promptly The following tasks have been removed: • Apply stimulus fading process • Assist with stakeholders’ training • Abide by applicable regulatory, legal, workplace reporting requirements.	November 2019
400-hour Training	• 40 hours, including  -3 hours on ethics -1 hour on RBT   supervision requirements  • Training should not be concluded in less than 5 days.	November 2019
	Utilization of assistant trainers.	December 2018
Initial Competency Assessment	The following tasks have been added: • Collect XYZ data  • Apply shaping procedures • Apply token economy practices  • Maintain client dignity (Interview format)  • Be aware of the requirements BACB’s RBT supervision (Interview format)  • Maintain professional boundaries (Interview format) • Seek clinical guidance from the supervisor (Interview format)   The following tasks have been removed:  • Carry out stimulus fading processes • Provide assistance with functional assessment	November 2019
	Utilization of assistant assessors.	December 2018

Technical Facts

Fast Facts (tl;dr)

• The candidates are presented with 85 questions which they are required to solve in 90 minutes. Ten questions, however, are not scored and are utilized to improve the exam’s formatting and question quality in the future. 
• Candidates must obtain 40 hours of qualified training before applying for RBT.
• Multiple Choice Questions for most items. 
• Candidates can opt for either In-Person or Remote Testing. 
• Effective January 1, 2023, only candidates residing in the US, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, can apply for RBT or any other BACB certification. 
• RBT applicants are only permitted eight examination attempts over the course of a one-year authorization period. 

Eligibility Criteria

To earn RBT certification, you must undergo a comprehensive process that includes meeting specific eligibility requirements and successfully passing the RBT certification exam. These requirements are designed to ensure that entry-level behavior technicians possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to deliver behavior analysis services effectively under the supervision of a qualified professional.

To apply for RBT certification, you must meet the following eligibility criteria: 

Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for RBT certification. This age requirement ensures that candidates have reached a level of maturity and responsibility necessary for working in the field of behavior analysis.

Education: Candidates are required to have completed a high school-level education or its equivalent. This basic educational requirement ensures that candidates possess the foundational knowledge and literacy skills needed to engage in behavior analysis services.

Background Check: As part of the application process, candidates must undergo a background check. The purpose of this check is to identify any potential criminal history that may impact your ability to work as an RBT and to ensure the safety of clients and the public.

Qualified Training: To become eligible for RBT certification, candidates need to complete 40 hours of qualified training. This training covers essential topics related to behavior analysis, ethical considerations, and the RBT Ethics Code, preparing candidates for their roles as behavior technicians.

RBT Initial Competency Assessment: After completing the required training, candidates must successfully pass an RBT initial competency assessment. This assessment evaluates your practical skills and understanding of behavior analysis concepts, ensuring that you are prepared to provide effective services under supervision.

Once you have met all the eligibility requirements, you can proceed to take the RBT certification exam

RBT Exam Application Process 

The RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) exam application process involves several steps that candidates need to follow to register for and take the RBT certification exam. Here’s a general outline of the application process:

Create an Account: Visit the website of the certifying organization or board responsible for RBT certification (i.e., the BACB) and create an account. This account will be used for the application process and future interactions with the certification board.

Submit the Application: Fill out the RBT exam application form provided on the website and submit it online through your account. 

Upload the required documents: Once you have filled in all the required details, ensure to upload all the necessary documents demanded by BACB for the RBT application, these documents include:

• Certification of successful completion of the 40-hour RBT program.
• Completed the first RBT Competency Assessment. 
• A copy of your high school diploma or an equivalent document that attests to your completion of that level of education.

Supervisor Verification: Upon submitting your RBT exam application, you will need to inform your supervisor about your application status and request their assistance in verifying specific details. This usually includes confirming your age and background check and a confirmation that they are willing to provide you with ongoing supervision. 

Pay the Application Fee: There is usually an application fee associated with the RBT exam. Pay the fee as specified by the certifying organization during the application process.

Review and Wait for Approval: The certification board will review your application and supporting documentation. If everything is in order and you fulfill all the eligibility criteria, your application will be approved.

Receive Scheduling Information: You will receive instructions on how to schedule your RBT exam once your application is approved. This may involve selecting an exam date, time, and location that is convenient for you.

It is crucial to follow the particular guidelines and instructions provided by the certifying organization or board to ensure a smooth and successful application process for the RBT certification exam. Be sure to check the organization’s website for any updates or changes to the application process or requirements.

In-Person vs Remote Testing

The landscape of education and evaluation is changing, and candidates may now choose between in-person and remote exam styles for the RBT certification exam. 

While in-person testing provides a more traditional and controlled environment, remote testing offers flexibility and convenience. In order to ensure a successful and stress-free exam experience, students should carefully consider the tiny distinctions between each technique. The variables and elements of both testing methods are contrasted in the following table.

Aspect	RBT In-Person Testing	RBT Remote Testing
Testing Environment	Physical testing center or designated location	Any location with a stable internet connection
Proctoring	In-person proctoring	Remote online proctoring
Equipment Needed	Provided by the testing center (e.g., computer)	Candidate’s computer or device
Supervision	In-person supervision during the exam	Remote proctor monitors the candidate via webcam
Scheduling Flexibility	Limited availability of testing centers	Flexible scheduling based on candidate’s availability
Travel Requirements	May require travel to a testing center	No travel required
Exam Experience	Face-to-face interaction with proctor	Virtual exam experience with online proctor
Technical Concerns	Less susceptible to technical issues	Potential for technical issues (internet connection, etc.)
Security Measures	Strict physical security protocols	Online security measures to prevent cheating
Testing Environment	Controlled environment with minimal distractions	Candidates need to create a quiet and distraction-free space
Interaction	Limited interaction with other candidates	Minimal interaction with remote proctor
Identification	In-person ID verification	Remote ID verification (may require additional steps)

Comparison of ABAT and RBT Certification Tests

Here’s a detailed comparison of the ABAT (Applied Behavior Analysis Technician) and RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) certification tests:

Criteria	ABAT (Applied Behavior Analysis Technician)	RBT (Registered Behavior Technician)
Certifying Body	QABA (Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board)	BACB (Behavior Analyst Certification Board)
Eligibility Requirements	– High school diploma or equivalent	– High school diploma or equivalent
	– 40-hour training program	– 40-hour training program
	– Competency assessment by a QBA or QASP-S	– Competency assessment by a BCBA or BCaBA
Application Process	– Complete application on QABA website	– Complete application on BACB website
	– Submit training verification and competency assessment	– Submit training verification and competency assessment
Exam Content	– Based on QABA’s ABAT task list	– Based on BACB’s RBT task list
Exam Format	– Multiple-choice questions	– Multiple-choice questions
Number of Questions	– 125 questions (100 scored, 25 unscored)	– 85 questions
Time Allotted	– 2 hours	– 90 minutes
Content Areas	– Measurement	– Measurement
	– Assessment	– Assessment
	– Skill Acquisition	– Skill Acquisition
	– Behavior Reduction	– Behavior Reduction
	– Documentation and Reporting	– Documentation and Reporting
	– Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice	– Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice
Cost	– Application and exam fee: $125	– Application fee: $50, Exam fee: $45
Recertification Requirements	– Every 2 years, 12 CEUs	– Annual renewal, 5 hours of continuing education
	– Renewal fee	– Renewal fee
Supervision Requirements	– Ongoing supervision by a QBA or QASP-S	– Ongoing supervision by a BCBA or BCaBA

Key Similarities:

• Both require a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Both require a 40-hour training program.
• Both require a competency assessment.
• Both exams are multiple-choice and cover similar content areas.
• Both require ongoing supervision and continuing education for recertification.

Key Differences:

• ABAT is certified by QABA, while RBT is certified by BACB.
• ABAT exam time is 2 hours compared to RBT’s 90 minutes.
• ABAT exam consists of 125 questions, while RBT has 85 questions.
• The specific supervisors differ: ABAT supervision by QBA or QASP-S, RBT by BCBA or BCaBA.

Results Scale and Interpretations

Preparing for the RBT exam can be a rigorous process. However, once you’ve taken the test, the anticipation of the results can be just as intense. Here’s what you can expect post-examination and how to interpret your results:

Examination Results

Upon finishing the examination, most candidates will receive immediate notification of their results at the testing site. It provides an initial glimpse into how you’ve performed. But, remember, this is not your final confirmation.

Within roughly a week after completing your test, the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) will further confirm your results. This confirmation is dispatched via email, ensuring you have a digital record of your performance. Additionally, if you took the test online, you can log into your Pearson VUE account to view the results shortly after the examination.

Post-Examination Process

Documentation:

If you’re curious about what kind of verification you will get once you pass the RBT examination, the process is pretty straightforward:

• At the Test Center: Once done with the examination, you will receive a pass/fail report. This report offers a quick insight into your performance.
• Via Email: Should you successfully pass the examination, the BACB will send you an email within approximately 24 hours. This email will have an attached certificate letter. This certificate letter is crucial as it holds detailed information about your RBT certification. It includes your certification number, its expiration date, and other pertinent details.
• BACB Account: For added convenience, you can also log into your BACB account to check your certification status and details.

What score do you need to pass the RBT exam? 

The RBT exam is scored on a scale of 0-250 points. To pass the examination, a candidate is required to score at least 200 points. A candidate may not enjoy the comfort of knowing exactly how many questions you are required to correctly answer in order to pass the examination (or vice-versa- how many questions you afford to get wrong in order not to fail the examination). Every exam has a particular passing score constructed on the base of the modified Angoff method. 

Historical RBT Examination Results

As per the BACB annual data reports, the first-time pass rate has constantly decreased over the years, with fewer candidates passing on their first attempt every year. The reason for the decreasing pass rate is unclear. Still, increasing difficulty or unprepared candidates– whether because of improper training, lacking study efforts, or perhaps the combination of both, could be some of the reasons. Hence it is recommended to be very cautious while selecting a 40-hour training program and pay close attention to the pass rate of that program. 

Year	First-Time Pass Rate
2022	77%
2021	83%
2020	84%
2019	87%

What Happens if You Fail the RBT Exam on the First Try? 

If you fail the exam on your first attempt, following your initial examination approval, you are allowed to repeat the test a maximum of eight times in a 12-month period. Within 48 hours of each unsuccessful exam attempt, an Examination Retake Application will be made accessible online via your BACB account. After submitting the Examination Retake Application within 48 hours, you will get an email with further details on how to schedule a new examination session. However, it would be best if you waited seven days after your initial try before doing so. There is presently no price associated with retaking the test.

Suppose you fail to pass your examination after 8 attempts and your 12-month authorization is not over yet. In that case, it will be required for you to wait for your 12-month authorization period to get over before you apply again for the RBT certification exam

Here’s what a test-taker has to say about the assessment:

“the mock exams are much harder than the actual test! don’t get discouraged also because if you remember anything from any psychology classes you’ve taken, you’re in the clear. when taking the test and in doubt, ALWAYS ASK YOUR BCBA!”

Source:  Reddit/nicxlis

RBT EXAM FAQs

RBT Exam Test Tips

Preparing for the RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) exam requires a comprehensive study plan and effective strategies. Here are a few unique preparation strategies that can help you succeed:

1. Take deep breaths: Taking some deep breaths prior to and during the exam can help calm your nerves and increase oxygen flow to your brain, keeping you alert and focused.

2. Use positive self-talk: The way you talk to yourself affects your mindset and confidence levels. Using positive self-talk can help reduce anxiety and keep you motivated throughout the exam.

3. Manage your time effectively: As mentioned earlier, the RBT exam is time-limited, so it’s essential to manage your time effectively. Ensure to  allocate enough time for each question and section, avoiding spending the majority of your time on one question or section.

4. Get a good night’s sleep: Ensure you get a restful night’s sleep before the exam day. A well-rested mind will help you stay focused and retain information more effectively.

5. Eat a balanced meal: Fuel your body and brain with a nutritious meal before the exam. Avoid heavy or sugary foods that can cause energy crashes. Opt for foods that provide sustained energy and mental clarity, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

6. Read questions carefully: It’s important to read each question carefully to understand what it’s asking for before answering it. Rushing through questions may cause you to miss critical details or misunderstand what is being asked.

7. Take breaks if necessary: If you feel overwhelmed or need a quick break, take a few seconds to close your eyes, stretch, or take a sip of water before continuing with the exam.

Here’s what a Reddit user has to say about the test:

“The resources and practice tests I used to study actually made everything easy for me. The test isn’t hard , it’s just tricky because there’s going to be two answers that sound correct ( but ofcourse only one could be right ) and yes if you sign up for the test before November I think you have 4 chances to retake it but the retake test has to be a week from when you initially took the test. I just wish they would show which questions I got right/wrong. I didn’t even get to see my score”

Source: Reddit/Capitalkd

Administration

Test Administrators: On behalf of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), Pearson VUE administers the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification examination. Pearson VUE is a well-known organization that offers computer-based testing services for a variety of professional certification and licensing tests in many disciplines and businesses. They collaborate with several professional associations to provide safe and standardized tests in testing facilities worldwide.

Test Schedule:  Once your application has been approved, an email including instructions on scheduling your RBT examination with Pearson VUE will be sent to you.  

Test Format: Multiple choice and computer-based

Test Materials: You won’t be allowed to bring any sort of material inside the testing facility apart from a valid ID proof. 

Cost: While applying for the examination, you are required to pay a $50 fee to BACB, and you need to pay another $45 to Pearson VUE while scheduling your appointment. 

Retake Policy: You are allowed to repeat the test a maximum of eight times in a 12-month period

Test Provider

The BACB, or Behavior Analyst Certification Board, is the organization that offers the RBT certification. The RBT certification is created for individuals working in direct support roles with people receiving ABA treatments. The BACB is a nonprofit organization that develops and upholds standards for behavior analysis practitioners.

Information Sources

• BACB
• Pearson Vue

Disclaimer – Every study guide and tutoring guide on iPREP is accurate and was written with the aim of offering assistance. iPREP is not affiliated with the Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT) certification exam, Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) (the provider of MBLEx), Pearson VUE (Test Administrators of RBT exam), or any other brands or businesses mentioned in the content above.