![image](https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=1078270101256924&ev=PageView&noscript=1) Which Behavior Technician Course Should I Take? RBT vs IBT vs ABAT - 40 Hour RBT® Online Training

Which Behavior Technician Course Should I Take? RBT vs IBT vs ABAT

SHORT ANSWER

If you work in ABA in the United States, take the RBT® 40-Hour Training. It’s the first step toward Registered Behavior Technician (RBT®) certification from the BACB®, the most common behavior technician credential in the US. Choose the IBT or ABAT only if your employer asks for that credential.

Pick the option that sounds like you

Not sure which credential your job needs? Ask your employer or supervisor before you enroll.

RBT vs IBT vs ABAT: side by side

All three 40-hour courses at Behavior Tech Course are self-paced, online and $30.

CourseCredential fromBest forAfter the coursePrice
RBT®
Registered Behavior Technician
BACB®Most people working in ABA in the United StatesInitial Competency Assessment, BACB® application, RBT exam$30
IBT
International Behavior Therapist
IBAOEmployers that recognize IBAO, including outside the USApply for IBT credentialing through IBAO$30
ABAT
Applied Behavior Analysis Technician
QABA®Employers and funders that recognize QABA® credentialsApply for ABAT certification through QABA®$30
AB 1172 training
Not a credential
California law (Ed Code 56366.1)Staff at California nonpublic schools and agenciesRepeat each year to stay compliant$15.99

How RBT certification works

Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician takes four steps. Our course covers step two.

  1. 1
    Meet the basic requirements

    Be at least 18, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass a background check.

  2. 2
    Complete your 40-hour RBT training

    Our self-paced RBT® 40-Hour Training covers the 2026 BACB® curriculum for $30.

  3. 3
    Pass the Initial Competency Assessment

    A qualified assessor watches you demonstrate core behavior technician skills.

  4. 4
    Apply and pass the RBT exam

    Submit your BACB® application, then schedule and pass the RBT certification exam.

Already taking the RBT course and need an IBT too?

Add the IBT Bridge Course when you check out with the RBT® 40-Hour Training. It adds the supplemental content you need to meet IBT certification requirements.

Getting ready for the RBT exam?

Practice with our free 20-question RBT mock exam, then review with the RBT® Exam Study Guide.

Frequently asked questions

Which behavior technician certification should I get?

Most people working in ABA in the United States should pursue RBT certification from the BACB, starting with the Behavior Tech Course RBT 40-hour training. Choose the IBT if your employer recognizes IBAO or you work outside the US, and the ABAT if your employer or funder uses QABA credentials. When in doubt, ask your employer which credential they accept.

What is the difference between an RBT and an IBT?

An RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) is credentialed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). An IBT (International Behavior Therapist) is credentialed by the International Behavior Analysis Organization (IBAO). Both require a 40-hour training, and Behavior Tech Course offers each for $30.

What is an ABAT?

An ABAT (Applied Behavior Analysis Technician) is a behavior technician credential from QABA. The Behavior Tech Course ABAT 40-hour course is aligned with QABA ABAT training standards.

Can I get RBT certification online?

You can complete the 40-hour RBT training online. Behavior Tech Course offers it self-paced for $30. You still need to pass the Initial Competency Assessment with a qualified assessor, apply to the BACB, and pass the RBT exam.

Is the 40-hour training the same as RBT certification?

No. The 40-hour training is the first requirement for RBT certification. The BACB awards the RBT credential after you complete every requirement, including the competency assessment and the exam.

How much does behavior technician training cost at Behavior Tech Course?

The RBT, IBT and ABAT 40-hour courses are $30 each. The California AB 1172 training is $15.99, and group seats save 10% on 5–9 seats and 15% on 10 or more.

Ready to start your RBT training?

Self-paced, interactive and $30. Start right after checkout.

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Behavior Tech Course is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB®), the International Behavior Analysis Organization (IBAO) or QABA®.

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