The Basics
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) will need to complete 12 Professional Development Units (PDUs) during each two-year recertification cycle.
These PDUs help RBTs maintain and improve their skills in behavior analysis, ethics, and professional practice.
What Are PDUs?
PDUs (Professional Development Units) are continuing education activities completed after certification.
Examples include:
- Online training courses
- Workshops or webinars
- Employer-provided training
- Professional skills workshops
Unlike the 40-hour RBT training, PDUs are completed throughout the certification cycle.
RBT Recertification Requirements
To maintain certification, RBTs must complete:
- 12 total PDUs
- Within a two-year recertification cycle
This ensures RBTs stay current with effective practices, ethical standards, and intervention strategies.
When Do RBT PDUs Start?
The PDU requirement is being phased in.
- RBTs recertifying before 2027 may not need PDUs
- RBTs recertifying after January 1, 2027 will need PDUs
Because of this, starting early is a smart approach.
What Types of Training Count as PDUs?
PDUs must be job-relevant and help build skills related to the RBT role.
Common topics include:
- Ethics and professional conduct
- Data collection and graphing
- Behavior intervention strategies
- Communication and feedback skills
- Cultural responsiveness and DEI
- Client dignity and assent
The key requirement is that training is job-relevant and skill-building.
Can RBTs Complete PDUs Online?
Yes. Online courses are one of the easiest and most flexible ways to complete PDUs.
Benefits include:
- Self-paced learning
- Immediate access
- Certificates for documentation
- Flexible scheduling
Many RBTs choose structured programs to complete all 12 PDUs efficiently.
Do PDUs Replace Supervision?
No. PDUs and supervision are separate requirements.
- Supervision is ongoing oversight of your work
- PDUs are continued learning and professional growth
Both are required.
What Happens If You Don’t Complete PDUs?
If PDUs are required for your renewal cycle and are not completed, it may result in:
- Ineligibility for recertification
- A lapse in your RBT credential
This is why completing PDUs on time is important.
The Easiest Way to Complete 12 PDUs
The simplest way is to complete a structured program that includes all required hours.
Many RBTs choose:
RBT PDU courses online
These programs typically include:
- Required topic areas
- Certificates of completion
- Self-paced access
Final Thoughts
RBTs will need 12 PDUs every two years as part of the recertification process. While the requirement is being phased in, starting early helps avoid stress later.
A structured PDU program can help you:
- Stay compliant
- Build stronger skills
- Avoid last-minute deadlines
Frequently Asked Questions
How many PDUs do RBTs need?
RBTs need to complete 12 Professional Development Units (PDUs) during each two-year recertification cycle.
When do RBT PDUs start?
RBT PDUs are expected to be required for recertification cycles after January 1, 2027.
What counts as RBT PDUs?
RBT PDUs include job-relevant training such as ethics, behavior analysis, data collection, and professional skill development.
Can RBTs complete PDUs online?
Yes, online courses are one of the most common and flexible ways for RBTs to complete PDUs.
Do PDUs replace supervision?
No, PDUs and supervision are separate requirements and both must be completed.
