How Many Questions Is The RBT?
The Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) exam consists of 85 multiple-choice questions, of which 75 are scored and 10 are unscored pilot questions for future testing. The test covers six major curricular areas from the RBT Task List (2nd Edition), and it will take 90 minutes to complete. The test is administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) at Pearson VUE testing centers.
Although the actual passing score is calculated using the modified Angoff approach, normally you must answer about 80% of the scored questions correctly to pass. If you are wondering how many people succeed? Here’s the RBT exam pass rate. The exam assesses your understanding of ABA concepts such as behavior modification, skill development, ethical behavior, and assessment. Below, we’ve broken down everything you need to know to help you succeed, from question distribution to study strategies.
RBT Exam Structure: Number of Questions & Time Limit
The RBT exam follows a standardized format, ensuring all candidates are assessed fairly. Knowing the structure helps, but here’s how to actually pass the RBT exam. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 85 (75 scored, 10 unscored pilot questions) |
| Time Limit | 90 minutes (~1 minute per question) |
| Question Type | Multiple-choice (4 answer choices) |
| Passing Score | Scaled (typically ~80% of scored questions) |
| Retake Policy | Up to 8 attempts in 12 months (7-day wait between retakes) |
Why Are There Unscored Questions?
The 10 unscored questions are field-test items the BACB evaluates for future exams. Since you won’t know which ones they are, treat every question as if it counts.
RBT Exam Content Breakdown (Task List Categories)
The exam is divided into six core areas based on the RBT Task List 2.0 (updated until the 2026 3rd Edition rollout). Below is the question distribution:
| Content Area | Number of Scored Questions | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Measurement | 12 | Data collection (frequency, duration, latency), graphing, operational definitions |
| 2. Assessment | 6 | Preference assessments, ABC data, functional assessments |
| 3. Skill Acquisition | 24 | Discrete trial training, prompting, shaping, reinforcement schedules |
| 4. Behavior Reduction | 12 | Extinction, differential reinforcement, antecedent interventions |
| 5. Documentation & Reporting | 10 | Session notes, HIPAA compliance, communicating with supervisors |
| 6. Professional Conduct | 11 | Ethics, client dignity, supervision requirements, scope of practice |
Key Insights:
- Skill Acquisition (24 questions) is the largest section—master reinforcement strategies and teaching methods.
- Behavior Reduction (12 questions) focuses on decreasing maladaptive behaviors using ABA techniques.
- Professional Conduct (11 questions) tests your knowledge of ethical guidelines and boundaries.
For a deeper dive into the RBT Task List, check out this detailed breakdown.
How Hard Is the RBT Exam? Pass Rates & Study Tips
First-Time Pass Rates (2021–2025)
Recent BACB data shows a decline in pass rates, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation:
| Year | First-Time Pass Rate |
|---|---|
| 2025 | ~74% (estimated) |
| 2023 | 74% |
| 2022 | 77% |
| 2021 | 83% |
Why the Drop?
- Inadequate 40-hour training programs. (Before facing these questions, you’ll first need to complete your RBT training.)
- Lack of hands-on experience before testing
- Insufficient practice exam usage
5 Study Strategies to Pass the RBT Exam
- Take Full-Length Practice Tests – Simulate exam conditions with 85-question mock exams to improve time management.
- Master the Task List – Focus on high-weight sections (e.g., Skill Acquisition).
- Use Flashcards – Drill key terms like antecedent interventions and token economies.
- Review Competency Assessment Tasks – Many exam questions mirror real-world scenarios.
- Join Study Groups – Discussing concepts with peers reinforces retention.
For more tips, explore this RBT study guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Skip the Unscored Questions?
No—since you can’t identify them, answer all questions.
2. How Many Questions Can I Miss and Still Pass?
The BACB doesn’t disclose exact numbers, but aiming for ~60/75 correct (80%) is safe.
3. Is the Exam Timed?
Yes—90 minutes total. Pace yourself to avoid rushing.
4. Can I Take the RBT Exam Online?
No. As of 2025, the exam is only offered in-person at Pearson VUE centers .
5. What Happens If I Fail?
You can retake it up to 8 times in a year (with a 7-day wait between attempts).
Final Thoughts: How to Prepare Effectively
Understanding how many questions are on the RBT exam is just the first step. To maximize your success:
- Prioritize high-yield topics (Skill Acquisition, Behavior Reduction).
- Take timed practice tests to build stamina.
- Apply ABA principles in real-world settings (e.g., data collection during shadowing).
For additional resources, the BACB’s official handbook is a must-read.
Ready to test your knowledge? Try a 75-question RBT practice test to gauge your readiness!
By structuring your study plan around these insights, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the RBT exam confidently. Good luck! 🚀
