If you’re looking to start a career in behavior analysis, you’ve probably come across three popular entry-level certifications: IBT, RBT, and ABAT. While all three prepare you to work with individuals with autism or developmental disabilities using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), each credential is governed by a different organization—and has unique requirements, recognition, and career pathways.
So how do you choose the right one for your goals? In this post, we break down the differences between IBT (International Behavior Therapist), RBT (Registered Behavior Technician), and ABAT (Applied Behavior Analysis Technician) to help you make an informed decision.
What Do All Three Roles Have in Common?
Whether you become an IBT, RBT, or ABAT, your responsibilities will typically include:
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Working 1:1 with clients under supervision
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Implementing behavior intervention plans (BIPs)
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Teaching social, communication, and daily living skills
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Collecting and recording data
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Collaborating with families and supervisors
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Upholding ethical guidelines
All three certifications require 40 hours of training, an exam, and ongoing supervision.
IBT: International Behavior Therapist
Credentialing Body: International Behavior Analysis Organization (IBAO)
Best for: Those working internationally or seeking a culturally responsive, global credential
Key Highlights:
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Recognized worldwide
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Focus on cultural responsiveness and diversity
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Fully online 40-hour training and exam
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Ideal for global therapists, digital nomads, or professionals outside the U.S.
Requirements:
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18+ years old
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High school diploma or equivalent
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Complete 40-hour IBAO-approved course
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Pass the IBT exam
RBT: Registered Behavior Technician
Credentialing Body: Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
Best for: U.S.-based professionals working in regions where BACB credentials are required
Key Highlights:
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Highly recognized in the United States
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Must be supervised by a BCBA or BCaBA
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Certification is limited to certain countries (no longer available to new candidates outside the U.S., Canada, and Australia as of 2023)
Requirements:
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18+ years old
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High school diploma
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Complete 40-hour BACB-approved course
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Pass the RBT Competency Assessment
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Pass a proctored exam through Pearson VUE
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Complete annual renewal and supervision hours
ABAT: Applied Behavior Analysis Technician
Credentialing Body: Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA)
Best for: Professionals working in organizations that use QABA credentials or in specific states that recognize ABAT
Key Highlights:
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Focus on evidence-based practice and professional growth
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Offers a pathway to mid-level and advanced QABA credentials (QASP-S, QBA)
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Certification recognized in a growing number of U.S. states and abroad
Requirements:
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18+ years old
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High school diploma or equivalent
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Complete 40-hour QABA-approved course
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Pass ABAT exam
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Supervision by a QABA-certified supervisor
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Renew every 2 years with CEUs
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | IBT | RBT | ABAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organization | IBAO | BACB | QABA |
| Recognition | International | U.S./Canada/Australia only | Growing U.S. & International |
| 40-Hour Training | Required (IBAO-approved) | Required (BACB-approved) | Required (QABA-approved) |
| Exam | Online via IBAO | In-person via Pearson VUE | Online or in-person via QABA |
| Supervisor Credentials | IBA, IBA-S | BCBA, BCaBA | QBA, QASP-S |
| Cultural Competency | ✅ Strong emphasis | ⚪ Medium focus | ⚪ Medium focus |
| Portability | ✅ High (global) | ❌ Limited (U.S./Canada/Australia) | ⚪ Moderate |
| Renewal/CEUs | Every 2 years | Every year | Every 2 years |
Which Behavior Tech Credential Should You Choose?
Choose IBT if:
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You want an internationally recognized certification
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You work (or want to work) outside the U.S.
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You value diversity, inclusion, and global standards in ABA
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You prefer an online, flexible training and testing process
Enroll in the 40-Hour IBT Course and start your ABA journey today.
Choose RBT if:
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You live in the U.S., Canada, or Australia
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Your employer or state requires BACB credentials
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You plan to eventually become a BCBA
Choose ABAT if:
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Your organization recognizes QABA certifications
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You want to grow within the QABA credentialing system
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You prefer a balanced blend of structure and flexibility
Final Thoughts
Each credential opens the door to meaningful work in ABA, but the right fit depends on your goals, location, and career path. If you’re seeking global flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and a modern approach to certification, the IBT is a powerful choice.
Start your IBT certification today with our 100% online, IBAO-approved course:
https://behaviortechcourse.com/product/ibt-40-hour-online-training-course-for-aba-therapists-ibao-approved-international-behavior-therapist-certification/