If youโre looking to start a career in behavior analysis, youโve probably seen three popular entry-level certifications: IBT, RBT, and ABAT. Although all three prepare you to support individuals with autism or other developmental disabilities using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), each credential comes from a different organization. As a result, the requirements, recognition, and career pathways can vary quite a bit.
So, which one should you choose? To help you decide, this post compares IBT (International Behavior Therapist), RBT (Registered Behavior Technician), and ABAT (Applied Behavior Analysis Technician)โincluding who each credential is best for, what you need to qualify, and how portable each option is.
What Do IBT, RBT, and ABAT Have in Common?
No matter which credential you pursue, the day-to-day work is often similar. For example, behavior technicians typically:
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Work 1:1 with clients under supervision
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Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs)
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Teach communication, social, and daily living skills
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Collect and record data
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Collaborate with supervisors and families
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Follow professional and ethical guidelines
In addition, all three pathways require 40 hours of training, an exam, and ongoing supervision.
IBT: International Behavior Therapist
Credentialing body: International Behavior Analysis Organization (IBAO)
Best for: People working internationally or anyone who wants a globally recognized credential
Why choose IBT?
IBT offers strong international portability. Moreover, it places a clear emphasis on cultural responsiveness and diversityโan important advantage for professionals serving multicultural communities.
Key highlights:
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Recognized worldwide
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Strong focus on cultural responsiveness and diversity
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Fully online 40-hour training and exam
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Ideal for international providers, digital nomads, or professionals outside the U.S.
Requirements:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Hold a high school diploma (or equivalent)
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Complete a 40-hour IBAO-approved course
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Pass the IBT exam
Call to action: Start the IBAO-approved IBT 40-hour course.
RBT: Registered Behavior Technician
Credentialing body: Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
Best for: U.S.-based professionals (and select countries) where BACB credentials are required
Why choose RBT?
RBT is the most widely recognized credential in many U.S. settings. Therefore, itโs often the best option if your employer, district, or funding source specifically requires BACB certification.
Key highlights:
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Strong recognition in the United States
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Requires supervision by a BCBA or BCaBA
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Available to new candidates only in select regions (U.S., Canada, and Australia)
Requirements:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Hold a high school diploma (or equivalent)
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Complete a 40-hour BACB-approved course
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Pass the RBT Competency Assessment
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Pass a proctored Pearson VUE exam
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Complete renewal requirements and ongoing supervision each year
ABAT: Applied Behavior Analysis Technician
Credentialing body: Qualified Applied Behavior Analysis Credentialing Board (QABA)
Best for: Professionals whose workplaces use QABA credentials or who want a pathway within the QABA system
Why choose ABAT?
ABAT can be a strong fit when your organization recognizes QABA credentials. In addition, QABA offers stackable pathways to advanced credentials (such as QASP-S and QBA), which can support long-term growth.
Key highlights:
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Emphasis on evidence-based practice and professional development
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Pathway to mid-level and advanced QABA credentials
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Recognition continues to grow in some U.S. states and internationally
Requirements:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Hold a high school diploma (or equivalent)
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Complete a 40-hour QABA-approved course
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Pass the ABAT exam
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Work under a qualified QABA 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 | Growing U.S. & international |
| 40-hour training | Required | Required | Required |
| Exam | Online (IBAO) | Pearson VUE (proctored) | QABA (varies) |
| Supervisor credentials | IBA / IBA-S | BCBA / BCaBA | QBA / QASP-S |
| Cultural responsiveness | Strong emphasis | Moderate | Moderate |
| Portability | High | Limited | Moderate |
| Renewal | Every 2 years | Annually | Every 2 years |
Which Behavior Tech Credential Should You Choose?
Choose IBT if you want:
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A credential recognized internationally
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Flexibility to work outside the U.S.
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A strong emphasis on cultural responsiveness and global standards
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An online training and testing process
Next step: Enroll in the 40-hour IBT course and start your ABA journey.
Choose RBT if you want:
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A credential commonly required in the U.S.
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A pathway that aligns with BACB systems and employers
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To build experience toward becoming a BCBA (long term)
Choose ABAT if you want:
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A credential your organization already recognizes
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A structured pathway within the QABA system
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A practical blend of flexibility and professional growth options
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, each credential can open the door to meaningful work in ABA. The best fit depends on your location, employer requirements, and long-term goals. If global portability and culturally responsive practice matter most to you, IBT may be the strongest choice.
Start your IBT certification 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/