Competency Assessment
Also called: RBT Initial Competency Assessment, RBT Recertification Competency Assessment, competency check
Definition
A structured, in-person demonstration that a person can perform a set of required skills to criterion, observed and signed off by a qualified assessor. For technicians, an initial competency assessment is required for certification after the 40-hour training, and a recertification assessment has been required for renewal; the 2026 changes move maintenance toward professional development instead.
In plain language
Showing an assessor, in person, that you can actually do the required skills. It is part of getting certified as a technician.
Example
A technician demonstrates a preference assessment and a discrete-trial program with a client while the assessor scores each task.
Not competency assessment
Passing the written certification exam. That tests knowledge; the competency assessment tests performance.
See also
Written from
- bacb-rbt-handbook-2026 — Eligibility Requirements; Certification Maintenance Requirements
Requirements from the 06/2026 RBT Handbook, restated in our own words. See the credential pages for the current rules.
This entry has not yet been through clinical review. Treat it as a draft.