RBT CEUs in 2026: What You Need to Know About the New BACB Requirements
Major RBT® Certification Updates Coming in 2026
The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) is implementing major updates to the Registered Behavior Technician® (RBT®) credential starting January 1, 2026. If you’re an RBT, supervisor, or agency leader, these changes will directly affect how you maintain your certification moving forward.
This guide breaks down what’s changing, when it happens, and how to stay compliant with the new RBT CEU requirements.
What’s Changing for RBTs in 2026
Until now, RBTs renewed their certification annually by completing a Competency Assessment and submitting an annual renewal application. That process is being replaced.
Beginning January 1, 2026, the BACB will transition to a two-year recertification cycle and introduce continuing education (CEU) requirements in place of the Competency Assessment.
Summary of Major Updates:
- Renewal Cycle: Changes from one year to two years.
- Competency Assessment: Eliminated after December 31, 2025.
- New Requirement: RBTs must complete 12 hours of Continuing Education (CEUs) every two years.
- Training Updates: The 40-hour RBT training for new applicants will be revised to reflect the latest ABA standards.
This aligns RBTs with BCBA and BCaBA renewal systems, emphasizing ongoing professional growth.
Why the BACB Is Making These Changes
The BACB aims to ensure that credentialed professionals continue to develop their skills beyond initial certification. Ongoing professional development helps RBTs:
- Stay current with evidence-based practices
- Improve quality of client care
- Strengthen career advancement opportunities
- Align with broader professional standards in applied behavior analysis
By moving toward a CEU-based renewal system, the BACB reinforces the importance of continuous learning in behavior analysis.
How to Stay Compliant with the New RBT CEU Rules
If your renewal date falls in 2026 or later, you’ll need to complete and document 12 hours of CEUs within your two-year cycle.
Acceptable CEU Activities Include:
- Online CEU courses from BACB-approved providers
- Webinars or workshops in applied behavior analysis
- In-service trainings hosted by qualified supervisors
- Coursework that enhances professional and ethical practice
At Online ABA Training, we’re preparing new RBT CEU courses designed to meet the 2026 BACB requirements — flexible, affordable, and fully online so you can stay compliant from anywhere.
Key Dates to Remember
| Date | Change | What It Means for You |
|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2025 | Final day the Competency Assessment applies | If you renew before this date, you’ll follow the current rules. |
| January 1, 2026 | New CEU-based recertification system begins | All renewals will require 12 CEUs over a two-year cycle. |
| Throughout 2026 | CEU opportunities open | Approved providers will begin offering RBT-focused CEU content. |
Start Preparing Now
Even though these updates don’t take effect until 2026, it’s smart to prepare early. Here’s how you can get ready:
- Mark your renewal date and note if it falls after January 1, 2026.
- Start planning your CEUs — choose reputable, BACB-recognized sources.
- Monitor the BACB website for official updates and approved CEU options.
The Bottom Line
The new BACB RBT rules mark a major shift in how RBTs maintain their certification one that focuses on professional growth instead of repetitive assessments.
By understanding these RBT recertification changes early and planning ahead, you’ll stay compliant, confident, and prepared to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of the individuals you serve.
