RBT Request to Return from Voluntary Inactive Status Application

Sep 20, 2026

RBTs can use this application to request reinstatement after voluntary inactive status. The recertification cycle restarts at the point it paused; if the request is not submitted and approved within 2 years from when inactive status began, certification expires and must be renewed under the rules in effect at submission. Instructions cover required competency assessment timing, submission via the Contact Us Form, a $25 nonrefundable processing fee with an Ontario relocation waiver, processing timelines, approval notifications, and post-approval supervision requirements.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages5

Reading Time13 min

AccessFree to download

Overview

Instructions

Required steps and timelines

RBT Information

Supervision

Required Reporting

Attestation

Application Processing Agreement

RBT® Request to Return from Voluntary Inactive Status Application Overview This application is for RBTs to request to return from voluntary inactive status. When an RBT returns from voluntary inactive status, their recertification cycle restarts from where it was paused. For example, if they become inactive 3 months into their cycle, they have 9 months before they must recertify again (and meet the recertification requirements) . If an RBT does not submit this application and receive approval within 2 years of the date their voluntary inactive status began, their certification will expire, and they must reapply under the requirements in effect at the time they submit their application to become recertified. Please note that individuals who reside in a country from which the BACB is not accepting certification applications will not be eligible to apply for new certification if they do not return within the Voluntary Inactive Status deadlines. For more information, review the Jurisdiction section of the RBT Handbook. Note: RBTs who were placed on voluntary inactive status due to the certification restrictions in Ontario and then relocated to an area under the BACB’s jurisdiction within 2 years of being placed on voluntary inactive status must submit an RBT Request to Return from Voluntary Inactive Status Application. To learn more, visit the International Development & Support web page. Instructions RBTs who have been on voluntary inactive status for less than 2 years and wish to return must do the following: 1. Complete an RBT Recertification Competency Assessment no more than 45 days before you plan to apply. This assessment must be completed no more than 45 days before your payment date. 2. Complete this application and submit it with the RBT Recertification Competency Assessment through the Contact Us Form within 2 years of the date your voluntary inactive status began. 3. Once your application has been received, you will be notified via email and given instructions on how to pay the $25 nonrefundable processing fee. You will have 2 weeks from when you receive that email to submit payment. Note: If you are an RBT who relocated to an area under the BACB’s jurisdiction due to the certification restrictions in Ontario, your processing fee will be waived. 4. Once your payment has been received, please allow up to 2 weeks for processing. You can see current processing times by visiting the Application Processing Updates web page. This application will expire 2 weeks from when the invoice is added to your BACB account, so please monitor your email on file with the BACB® for confirmation of approval or feedback on required next steps. If approved, your certification reactivation date will be included in your determination email. Once reactivated, you must have an RBT Supervisor or RBT Requirements Coordinator on record with the BACB before providing behavior-analytic services. A. RBT Information RBT’s Full Legal Name: BACB ID \# (located in your BACB account): Date Voluntary Inactive Status Began: If you are unsure of your inactivation date, contact the BACB. B. Supervision • By signing below, I affirm that I (RBT) will resume receiving supervision for 5% of my hours spent providing behavior-analytic services. C. Required Reporting I (RBT) understand that: • By signing below, I affirm that I am required to report to my RBT Supervisor or RBT Requirements Coordinator on record, if applicable, any information that might impact my background check or status with the BACB. • By signing below, I affirm that I am required to report to my RBT Supervisor or RBT Requirements Coordinator on record and/or the BACB any physical or mental health condition or substance use disorder that could (a) impair my ability to competently provide behavior-analytic services and/or (b) jeopardize public health and safety. • By signing below, I affirm that I am required to report to my RBT Supervisor or RBT Req

FAQs

How does recertification work after an RBT returns from voluntary inactive status?

The recertification cycle restarts from where it was paused. For example, if inactivity begins 3 months into the cycle, the remaining 9 months apply before recertification is due again.

What happens if the RBT does not submit and receive approval within 2 years?

Certification will expire. The RBT must then reapply under the requirements that are in effect at the time the application is submitted.

What are the key steps and deadlines to apply to return?

Submit an RBT Recertification Competency Assessment no more than 45 days before applying, and complete the application within 2 years of the inactive start date. After submission, pay the $25 nonrefundable processing fee within 2 weeks of the email notice (waived for certain Ontario relocation cases), then allow up to 2 weeks for processing.

Sep 20, 2026

Upload by Alex Sinclair