Quick answers about the RBT exam, using details from the BACB’s RBT Handbook and the 3rd Edition Test Content Outline.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the RBT exam?
The RBT exam has 85 multiple-choice questions: 75 are scored and 10 are unscored pilot questions. You have 90 minutes, and each question has four options.
What is the passing score for the RBT exam?
The BACB does not publish the passing score. The commonly quoted 80% is an estimate, not an official cutoff, because the BACB sets the standard with a modified Angoff method.
How much does it cost to become an RBT?
The total is $110: a $65 application fee to the BACB and a $45 exam fee to Pearson VUE.
How many times can I retake the RBT exam?
You can take the exam up to 8 times in 12 months, with a 7-day wait between attempts. Pearson VUE charges $45 for each attempt.
What are the cancellation fees?
Cancelling 31 or more days ahead is free. Cancelling 5 to 30 days ahead costs $27, and 48 hours to 5 days ahead costs $32.
What changed in the RBT exam in 2026?
The exam moved to the 3rd Edition Test Content Outline on January 1, 2026, and recertification changed to a 2-year cycle with 12 PDUs. See the 2026 changes page for details.
How much supervision does an RBT need?
RBTs need at least 5% of monthly service hours supervised, with 2 real-time contacts a month, at least one with direct observation and at least one individual.
2026 changes · How to become an RBT · RBT renewal · Exam outline · Glossary
Independent study resource, not affiliated with the BACB or Pearson VUE. Rules and fees can change, so confirm them in the current RBT Handbook at bacb.com.
Looking for the “task list”? See all 43 items of the 3rd Edition outline explained in plain English.