The path to becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) in Georgia involves a structured process of training, practical assessment, and a final certification exam. This paraprofessional credential is the recognized entry point for individuals seeking to work in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA). This guide outlines the steps to earn the certification and begin a career supporting individuals with developmental needs in Georgia.
Understanding the Registered Behavior Technician Role
The Registered Behavior Technician is a paraprofessional who works directly with clients to implement treatment plans created by a certified supervisor. RBTs focus on the direct delivery of behavior-analytic services in various settings, rather than designing intervention plans. This role requires the RBT to work consistently under the guidance of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA).
The RBT scope of practice centers on implementing skill acquisition programs, such as teaching communication or daily living skills, and using behavior reduction strategies. The role involves meticulous data collection and reporting on client progress. This data is used by the supervisor to adjust the treatment plan. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) sets the national standards for all RBTs.
Initial Eligibility and Background Check Requirements
Before beginning formal training, candidates must meet specific prerequisites established by the BACB. An applicant must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a GED. These standards ensure a baseline level of maturity and foundational education necessary for the technical and ethical demands of the profession.
A satisfactory criminal background check is a mandatory requirement that must be completed no more than 180 days before submitting the certification application. This check is required because RBTs often work with vulnerable populations, including children and those with developmental disabilities. Although the BACB mandates a standard check, many employers in Georgia conduct their own checks prior to hiring.
Completing the Mandatory RBT 40-Hour Training
The first step toward certification is completing a standardized 40-hour training course, which must be overseen by a qualified BCBA. This curriculum is based on the RBT Task List and covers the foundational principles of applied behavior analysis. The training must be completed within a 180-day period, but cannot be finished in fewer than five days to ensure adequate pacing.
The training content is divided into core areas:
- Measurement
- Skill acquisition
- Behavior reduction
- Professional conduct
Three hours of the coursework are dedicated to the RBT Ethics Code to prepare technicians for ethical dilemmas and professional boundaries. Training options are flexible, with many providers offering the course in online, in-person, or employer-sponsored formats.
Mastering the RBT Competency Assessment
Following the 40-hour training, applicants must pass the RBT Initial Competency Assessment, which demonstrates their learned skills. This hands-on evaluation is administered by a qualified BCBA or BCaBA who directly observes the candidate performing various tasks. It ensures the applicant can translate theoretical knowledge into effective, real-world application with a client.
The assessment covers 20 specific tasks across the four main domains: measurement, assessment, skill acquisition, and behavior reduction. Competency is demonstrated by working with a client or through role-playing scenarios with the assessor. This assessment must be completed no more than 90 days before the final certification application is submitted to the BACB.
Registering and Passing the RBT Certification Exam
After the competency assessment is completed, the applicant is authorized by the BACB to register for the final RBT Certification Exam. The exam is administered in a proctored setting and consists of 85 multiple-choice questions, 75 of which are scored. Candidates are given 90 minutes to complete the test, which assesses their knowledge of the RBT Task List.
Content on the exam is drawn from all areas of the RBT Task List, including documentation, reporting procedures, professional conduct, and scope of practice. Preparation should focus on measurement techniques and the principles of skill acquisition, as these constitute the largest section of the test. Reviewing the RBT Task List provided by the BACB is the most direct way to prepare for the examination.
Maintaining Your RBT Certification
Maintaining the RBT credential is an annual process requiring continued adherence to the BACB’s professional and ethical standards. RBTs must receive ongoing supervision from a qualified BCBA or BCaBA for a minimum of five percent of the total time spent providing behavior-analytic services each month. This supervision must include at least two face-to-face contacts monthly, ensuring consistent professional oversight.
The annual renewal process requires submitting a renewal application and fee to the BACB. Documentation of a satisfactory renewal competency assessment must also be included. This assessment is conducted by a qualified supervisor and confirms the RBT’s skills remain current. Technicians must also follow the BACB Ethics Code for RBTs, which outlines the professional and ethical boundaries for service delivery.
Working as an RBT in Georgia
RBT certification through the BACB is the recognized standard for practice, as Georgia does not impose an additional state-level licensing requirement. Once certified, an individual can immediately begin applying for RBT roles across the state. The job market for RBTs in Georgia is experiencing high demand, particularly in metropolitan areas such as Atlanta and its surrounding suburbs.
Employment settings are varied and include schools, specialized clinics, and in-home therapy services. RBTs in Georgia provide services to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities. The high demand offers numerous opportunities for career growth within the behavior analysis field.