Quick answer: The 2026 RBT exam has 85 multiple-choice questions — 75 scored and 10 unscored pilot questions — and you have 90 minutes, including the tutorial and terms screens. Each question has 4 options with one correct answer. The result is pass/fail, and the exam is taken in person at a Pearson VUE testing center.
RBT exam format (2026)
| Total questions | 85 (75 scored + 10 unscored pilot) |
| Question type | Multiple choice, 4 options, 1 correct answer |
| Time | 90 minutes (includes terms and tutorial) |
| Scoring | Pass/fail; passing standard set with the modified Angoff method |
| Content | RBT Test Content Outline (3rd edition): 43 tasks in 6 content areas |
| Delivery | Computer-based, in person at Pearson VUE (English only) |
| Attempts | Up to 8 within 12 months of approval; 7 days between attempts |
How many questions come from each content area?
| Content area | Scored questions | Share | Study |
|---|---|---|---|
| A. Data Collection and Graphing | 13 | 17% | Guide |
| B. Behavior Assessment | 8 | 11% | Guide |
| C. Behavior Acquisition | 19 | 25% | Guide |
| D. Behavior Reduction | 14 | 19% | Guide |
| E. Documentation and Reporting | 10 | 13% | Guide |
| F. Ethics | 11 | 15% | Guide |
| Total | 75 | 100% |
Behavior Acquisition and Behavior Reduction together make up 33 of the 75 scored questions (44%), so give them the most study time.
How is the RBT exam scored?
You receive a pass/fail result. The BACB sets the passing standard using the modified Angoff method, in which a panel of certified subject-matter experts judges how a minimally competent RBT would perform on each question; the BACB Board of Directors approves the standard. The BACB does not publish a fixed percentage or raw cut score, and the 10 pilot questions don’t count — but you can’t tell which they are, so answer every question carefully.
As a practical benchmark, aim for 80% or more on fresh practice questions before booking — for example, 64+ out of 80 on our full-length mock exam.
Pacing: how long per question?
90 minutes for 85 questions is roughly a minute per question, and the clock also covers the tutorial screens. Practise under time pressure so you don’t rush the last section.
What happens on exam day?
- Arrive early with valid, matching identification.
- You’ll test on a computer at a Pearson VUE center; personal items are stored outside the room.
- You’ll see a short tutorial and the terms, then the 85 questions.
- You can file an exam appeal within 7 days of your appointment if something went wrong.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the RBT exam?
85 multiple-choice questions: 75 scored and 10 unscored pilot questions.
How long is the RBT exam?
90 minutes, which includes reviewing the terms and conditions and the tutorial.
What is the passing score for the RBT exam?
The exam is pass/fail. The BACB sets the passing standard with the modified Angoff method and does not publish a fixed percentage.
Can I take the RBT exam online?
No. It is taken in person at an authorized Pearson VUE testing center, in English only.
What happens if I fail the RBT exam?
You can retake it after at least 7 days, up to 8 attempts within 12 months of approval. Each appointment costs $45.
Source: BACB RBT Handbook, updated October 16, 2026. Requirements can change — always confirm on the official BACB RBT page.
Practise now: RBT Practice Exam 1 · 80-question mock exam