How much the RBT exam and certification cost (2026)
Short answer
In 2026 the BACB certification application fee is $65 and the Pearson VUE exam appointment fee is $45, a total of $110 before training costs. The 40-hour training is priced by third-party providers and is not set by the BACB.
Direct BACB and Pearson VUE costs
- $65 certification application processing fee (BACB, non-refundable).
- $45 examination appointment fee (Pearson VUE) — paid again for each retake appointment.
- $0 to submit a retake application (currently), but you must wait 7 days between attempts.
Costs the BACB does not set
- The 40-hour training: offered by employers, universities and online providers at their own prices. The BACB publishes pass rates by training provider, which is a better signal than price.
- Background and abuse-registry checks: vary by state and vendor.
Renewal
RBT certification renews annually and requires the RBT Recertification Competency Assessment within 45 days of the expiration date; see the Handbook for the current renewal fee.
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Primary references
- RBT Handbook (updated June 2026) — Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) · primary · retrieved 2026-09-21, verified 2026-09-21
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21Next review by: 2026-10-21Draft — pending editorial reviewHow we verify facts