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Alabama Behavior Analyst — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licensed Assistant Behavior Analyst

State license for BACB-certified assistant behavior analysts practicing under ongoing supervision by a licensed, currently BACB-certified behavior analyst. Authority transferred February 26, 2026; existing rules continue under §34-5A-3(h). Exempt activities are governed by §34-5A-2(c), not additional license types.

Licensing authority: Alabama Department of Mental Health (Mental Health Commissioner) · Application information

New licensure application after more than two years of expiration
BCaBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCaBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Conflicting assistant checklist
The controlling §34-5A-4(3)a requires the assistant (BCaBA) examination. Rule 580-5-30B-.06(3)(b) instead states: "(b) Proof of having passed the Behavior Analyst Certification exam and been certified as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst by the certifying entity;". The rule's BCBA wording is retained as a conflicting checklist demand; it does not add the BCBA examination to this assistant-license route.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Department page instruction
The Department page additionally states: "The deadline for renewal is December 15 - after this date a $50 late fee will apply. There is a 45 day reinstatement period before your license expires and a new initial license application must be submitted.". Its shorter reinstatement description is an implementation instruction, while §34-5A-7(b) controls the statutory cutoff.
Expired license
An ordinary license not renewed within two years after expiration cannot be renewed, restored or reissued; submit a new application satisfying all relevant initial licensure requirements (§34-5A-7(b)).
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Ongoing supervision
Provide proof of ongoing supervision by a licensed behavior analyst who is currently a BACB-certified behavior analyst, consistent with BACB assistant supervision requirements; submit a signed supervision attestation.
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Initial licensure after BACB certification
BCaBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCaBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Conflicting assistant checklist
The controlling §34-5A-4(3)a requires the assistant (BCaBA) examination. Rule 580-5-30B-.06(3)(b) instead states: "(b) Proof of having passed the Behavior Analyst Certification exam and been certified as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst by the certifying entity;". The rule's BCBA wording is retained as a conflicting checklist demand; it does not add the BCBA examination to this assistant-license route.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Ongoing supervision
Provide proof of ongoing supervision by a licensed behavior analyst who is currently a BACB-certified behavior analyst, consistent with BACB assistant supervision requirements; submit a signed supervision attestation.
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Late renewal within two years of expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fees
Submit a completed renewal application and the application review and renewal fees.
Current certification
Provide proof of continued BCaBA certification by BACB. Section 34-5A-7(a) and rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) require continued certification for renewal, not a new or prior examination score as a separate renewal requirement.
Department page instruction
The current Department page states: "The deadline for renewal is December 15 - after this date a $50 late fee will apply. There is a 45 day reinstatement period before your license expires and a new initial license application must be submitted.". This implementation statement is retained for the applicant; it does not displace the controlling two-year late-renewal limit in §34-5A-7(b) or the filing rules.
Filing period
Rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) requires receipt between October 1 and November 30.
Late fee
Pay the late fee in addition to ordinary renewal fees. Rule 580-5-30B-.07(6) treats the stated late period as December 1 prior to the expiration year through November 30 two years following expiration.
License status
An ordinary license was not timely renewed, and no more than two years have elapsed since expiration. After expiration, cease licensed practice until a renewed license is issued.
License term
The ordinary license is granted for two years and expires December 31 in the second year (§34-5A-7(a)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-26.

Licensure by reciprocity
BCaBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCaBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Ongoing supervision
Provide proof of ongoing supervision by a licensed behavior analyst who is currently a BACB-certified behavior analyst, consistent with BACB assistant supervision requirements; submit a signed supervision attestation.
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Other state license
Hold active licensure in another jurisdiction with comparable licensing requirements that offers reciprocity to Alabama licensees; supply proof of current licensure, ethical compliance and current BACB certification (§34-5A-6). This is an applicant-held license condition, not an examination reference to another jurisdiction.
Timely renewal of an active license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fees
Submit a completed renewal application and the application review and renewal fees.
Current certification
Provide proof of continued BCaBA certification by BACB. Section 34-5A-7(a) and rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) require continued certification for renewal, not a new or prior examination score as a separate renewal requirement.
Department page instruction
The current Department page states: "The deadline for renewal is December 15 - after this date a $50 late fee will apply. There is a 45 day reinstatement period before your license expires and a new initial license application must be submitted.". This implementation statement is retained for the applicant; it does not displace the controlling two-year late-renewal limit in §34-5A-7(b) or the filing rules.
Filing period
Rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) requires receipt between October 1 and November 30.
License status
Hold an active ordinary license.
License term
The ordinary license is granted for two years and expires December 31 in the second year (§34-5A-7(a)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-26.

Petition for reinstatement after revocation
BCaBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCaBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Disciplinary status
The ordinary license was revoked. Section 34-5A-3(i)(5) permits an application for reinstatement; approval is discretionary, not guaranteed. Rule 580-5-30B-.03(2)(d) provides written application and agency review.
Fees
Pay the nonrefundable reinstatement fee and any applicable late or penalty fees.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Ongoing supervision
Provide proof of ongoing supervision by a licensed behavior analyst who is currently a BACB-certified behavior analyst, consistent with BACB assistant supervision requirements; submit a signed supervision attestation.
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Return to active practice
Section 34-5A-7(c) states that return to active practice requires the same initial licensure requirements, except as otherwise provided in the chapter; no separate examination waiver is stated in §34-5A-3(i)(5).
Renewal of a suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fees
Submit a completed renewal application and the application review and renewal fees.
Current certification
Provide proof of continued BCaBA certification by BACB. Section 34-5A-7(a) and rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) require continued certification for renewal, not a new or prior examination score as a separate renewal requirement.
Department page instruction
The current Department page states: "The deadline for renewal is December 15 - after this date a $50 late fee will apply. There is a 45 day reinstatement period before your license expires and a new initial license application must be submitted.". This implementation statement is retained for the applicant; it does not displace the controlling two-year late-renewal limit in §34-5A-7(b) or the filing rules.
Filing period
Rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) requires receipt between October 1 and November 30.
License status
Hold a suspended ordinary license eligible for renewal. Renewal preserves the license but does not remove the suspension or authorize practice. If the renewal is late, the late fee and two-year limitation also apply.
License term
The ordinary license is granted for two years and expires December 31 in the second year (§34-5A-7(a)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-26.

Reinstatement or vacation of suspension
BCaBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCaBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Disciplinary status
The ordinary license is suspended; apply to the Mental Health Commissioner for vacation of suspension or reinstatement. Agency review of the written request determines the outcome (§34-5A-3(i)(5); rule 580-5-30B-.03(2)(d)).
Fees
Pay the nonrefundable reinstatement fee and any applicable late or penalty fees.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Ongoing supervision
Provide proof of ongoing supervision by a licensed behavior analyst who is currently a BACB-certified behavior analyst, consistent with BACB assistant supervision requirements; submit a signed supervision attestation.
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Reinstatement requirements
Meet the same requirements as initial licensure under §34-5A-7(c); submit the reinstatement application, proof of current certification and reinstatement fees. For an assistant, supply the supervision attestation required by rule 580-5-30B-.07(9)(d).

Licensed Behavior Analyst

State license for BACB-certified behavior analysts. Authority transferred February 26, 2026; existing rules continue under §34-5A-3(h). Exempt activities are governed by §34-5A-2(c), not additional license types.

Licensing authority: Alabama Department of Mental Health (Mental Health Commissioner) · Application information

New licensure application after more than two years of expiration
BCBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Department page instruction
The Department page additionally states: "The deadline for renewal is December 15 - after this date a $50 late fee will apply. There is a 45 day reinstatement period before your license expires and a new initial license application must be submitted.". Its shorter reinstatement description is an implementation instruction, while §34-5A-7(b) controls the statutory cutoff.
Expired license
An ordinary license not renewed within two years after expiration cannot be renewed, restored or reissued; submit a new application satisfying all relevant initial licensure requirements (§34-5A-7(b)).
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Initial licensure after BACB certification
BCBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Late renewal within two years of expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fees
Submit a completed renewal application and the application review and renewal fees.
Current certification
Provide proof of continued BCBA certification by BACB. Section 34-5A-7(a) and rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) require continued certification for renewal, not a new or prior examination score as a separate renewal requirement.
Department page instruction
The current Department page states: "The deadline for renewal is December 15 - after this date a $50 late fee will apply. There is a 45 day reinstatement period before your license expires and a new initial license application must be submitted.". This implementation statement is retained for the applicant; it does not displace the controlling two-year late-renewal limit in §34-5A-7(b) or the filing rules.
Filing period
Rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) requires receipt between October 1 and November 30.
Late fee
Pay the late fee in addition to ordinary renewal fees. Rule 580-5-30B-.07(6) treats the stated late period as December 1 prior to the expiration year through November 30 two years following expiration.
License status
An ordinary license was not timely renewed, and no more than two years have elapsed since expiration. After expiration, cease licensed practice until a renewed license is issued.
License term
The ordinary license is granted for two years and expires December 31 in the second year (§34-5A-7(a)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-26.

Licensure by reciprocity
BCBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Other state license
Hold active licensure in another jurisdiction with comparable licensing requirements that offers reciprocity to Alabama licensees; supply proof of current licensure, ethical compliance and current BACB certification (§34-5A-6). This is an applicant-held license condition, not an examination reference to another jurisdiction.
Timely renewal of an active license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fees
Submit a completed renewal application and the application review and renewal fees.
Current certification
Provide proof of continued BCBA certification by BACB. Section 34-5A-7(a) and rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) require continued certification for renewal, not a new or prior examination score as a separate renewal requirement.
Department page instruction
The current Department page states: "The deadline for renewal is December 15 - after this date a $50 late fee will apply. There is a 45 day reinstatement period before your license expires and a new initial license application must be submitted.". This implementation statement is retained for the applicant; it does not displace the controlling two-year late-renewal limit in §34-5A-7(b) or the filing rules.
Filing period
Rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) requires receipt between October 1 and November 30.
License status
Hold an active ordinary license.
License term
The ordinary license is granted for two years and expires December 31 in the second year (§34-5A-7(a)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-26.

Petition for reinstatement after revocation
BCBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Disciplinary status
The ordinary license was revoked. Section 34-5A-3(i)(5) permits an application for reinstatement; approval is discretionary, not guaranteed. Rule 580-5-30B-.03(2)(d) provides written application and agency review.
Fees
Pay the nonrefundable reinstatement fee and any applicable late or penalty fees.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Return to active practice
Section 34-5A-7(c) states that return to active practice requires the same initial licensure requirements, except as otherwise provided in the chapter; no separate examination waiver is stated in §34-5A-3(i)(5).
Renewal of a suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application and fees
Submit a completed renewal application and the application review and renewal fees.
Current certification
Provide proof of continued BCBA certification by BACB. Section 34-5A-7(a) and rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) require continued certification for renewal, not a new or prior examination score as a separate renewal requirement.
Department page instruction
The current Department page states: "The deadline for renewal is December 15 - after this date a $50 late fee will apply. There is a 45 day reinstatement period before your license expires and a new initial license application must be submitted.". This implementation statement is retained for the applicant; it does not displace the controlling two-year late-renewal limit in §34-5A-7(b) or the filing rules.
Filing period
Rule 580-5-30B-.07(4) requires receipt between October 1 and November 30.
License status
Hold a suspended ordinary license eligible for renewal. Renewal preserves the license but does not remove the suspension or authorize practice. If the renewal is late, the late fee and two-year limitation also apply.
License term
The ordinary license is granted for two years and expires December 31 in the second year (§34-5A-7(a)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-26.

Reinstatement or vacation of suspension
BCBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Certification
Maintain active BCBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Disciplinary status
The ordinary license is suspended; apply to the Mental Health Commissioner for vacation of suspension or reinstatement. Agency review of the written request determines the outcome (§34-5A-3(i)(5); rule 580-5-30B-.03(2)(d)).
Fees
Pay the nonrefundable reinstatement fee and any applicable late or penalty fees.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Reinstatement requirements
Meet the same requirements as initial licensure under §34-5A-7(c); submit the reinstatement application, proof of current certification and reinstatement fees. For an assistant, supply the supervision attestation required by rule 580-5-30B-.07(9)(d).

Temporary Licensed Assistant Behavior Analyst

Temporary license for a BACB-certified assistant behavior analyst residing and practicing outside Alabama, delivering services during a limited and defined period. The verified short introductory application page instructs temporary applicants to email the Board.

Licensing authority: Alabama Department of Mental Health (Mental Health Commissioner) · Application information

One time extension of an existing temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continued temporary scope
The license remains the temporary form defined by §34-5A-5; this extension does not create a permanent license.
Existing license
Hold this temporary license and submit a written extension request to the agency.
Extension limit
The agency may extend the temporary license one time; approval is discretionary. Rule 580-5-30B-.07(3) states the extension procedure and contains no examination requirement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-26.

Initial temporary licensure
BCaBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Application method
The verified short application introduction states: "To apply for a temporary license, email the Board." It contains an actual instruction, not a complete application form.
Certification
Maintain active BCaBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Conflicting assistant checklist
The controlling §34-5A-4(3)a requires the assistant (BCaBA) examination. Rule 580-5-30B-.06(3)(b) instead states: "(b) Proof of having passed the Behavior Analyst Certification exam and been certified as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst by the certifying entity;". The rule's BCBA wording is retained as a conflicting checklist demand; it does not add the BCBA examination to this assistant-license route.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Limited services
Services must be delivered during a limited and defined period.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Ongoing supervision
Provide proof of ongoing supervision by a licensed behavior analyst who is currently a BACB-certified behavior analyst, consistent with BACB assistant supervision requirements; submit a signed supervision attestation.
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Residence and practice
Reside and practice outside Alabama and temporarily provide services in Alabama, to an Alabama resident, or both. An existing professional license outside Alabama is not mandatory: §34-5A-5 expressly allows licensed or unlicensed national board certified practitioners.
Temporary term
The temporary license expires upon permanent-license issuance or application denial, and no later than 90 days after issuance; one extension may be requested.

Temporary Licensed Behavior Analyst

Temporary license for a BACB-certified behavior analyst residing and practicing outside Alabama, delivering services during a limited and defined period. The verified short introductory application page instructs temporary applicants to email the Board.

Licensing authority: Alabama Department of Mental Health (Mental Health Commissioner) · Application information

One time extension of an existing temporary license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continued temporary scope
The license remains the temporary form defined by §34-5A-5; this extension does not create a permanent license.
Existing license
Hold this temporary license and submit a written extension request to the agency.
Extension limit
The agency may extend the temporary license one time; approval is discretionary. Rule 580-5-30B-.07(3) states the extension procedure and contains no examination requirement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-26.

Initial temporary licensure
BCBA Certification Examination
Application
Submit the completed application and authorized application and licensure fees to the Mental Health Commissioner.
Application method
The verified short application introduction states: "To apply for a temporary license, email the Board." It contains an actual instruction, not a complete application form.
Certification
Maintain active BCBA certification from BACB after passage of the corresponding certification examination; a passing examination does not replace current certification.
Criminal background check
Complete and pay for a criminal background check. Section 34-5A-4(1)b requires two complete fingerprint sets and a sworn identifying form. The linked March 9, 2021 instructions describe the agency initiating an AccuSource background-check request using the applicant's email address.
Limited services
Services must be delivered during a limited and defined period.
Moral character
Be of good moral character and conduct professional activities in accordance with accepted professional and ethical standards, including the certifying entity's professional and ethical compliance code (§34-5A-4(1)).
Other license verification
If currently or previously licensed elsewhere, request license verification from each applicable licensing authority as directed by the linked application instructions.
Residence and practice
Reside and practice outside Alabama and temporarily provide services in Alabama, to an Alabama resident, or both. An existing professional license outside Alabama is not mandatory: §34-5A-5 expressly allows licensed or unlicensed national board certified practitioners.
Temporary term
The temporary license expires upon permanent-license issuance or application denial, and no later than 90 days after issuance; one extension may be requested.

BCaBA Certification Examination

Provider
Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB); delivered by Pearson VUE in person at authorized Pearson VUE testing sites
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination, continuously available and offered only in English; each question has 4 possible answers and only 1 correct answer; all questions are equally weighted and the result is based on overall performance
Exam questions
175 multiple-choice questions: 150 scored and 25 unscored
Time limit
4 hours
Passing score
Pass/fail; criterion-referenced passing score established by the modified Angoff method
Exam fee
$175 certification application (BACB) plus $125 examination appointment (Pearson VUE)
Examination outline
  • A. Behaviorism and Philosophical Foundations (10 of 150 scored questions) (7%)
    • A.1. Explain the goals of behavior analysis as a natural science (i.e., description, prediction, control).
    • A.2. Explain the philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis (e.g., selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, pragmatism).
    • A.3. Describe and explain behavior from the perspective of radical behaviorism.
    • A.4. Distinguish among behaviorism, the experimental analysis of behavior, applied behavior analysis, and professional practice guided by the science of behavior analysis.
    • A.5. Identify and describe dimensions of applied behavior analysis (Baer, Wolf, & Risley, 1968).
  • B. Concepts and Principles (18 of 150 scored questions) (12%)
    • B.1. Identify and distinguish among behavior, response, and response class.
    • B.2. Identify and distinguish between stimulus and stimulus class.
    • B.3. Identify and distinguish between respondent and operant conditioning.
    • B.4. Identify and distinguish between positive and negative reinforcement contingencies.
    • B.5. Identify and distinguish between positive and negative punishment contingencies.
    • B.6. Identify and distinguish between automatic and socially mediated contingencies.
    • B.7. Identify and distinguish among unconditioned, conditioned, and generalized reinforcers and punishers.
    • B.8. Identify and distinguish among simple schedules of reinforcement.
    • B.9. Identify examples of operant extinction.
    • B.10. Identify and distinguish between types of stimulus control.
    • B.11. Identify and distinguish between discrimination and generalization.
    • B.12. Define and identify examples of unconditioned motivating operations.
    • B.13. Identify and distinguish between rule-governed and contingency-shaped behavior.
    • B.14. Identify and distinguish among elementary verbal operants.
    • B.15. Define and identify examples of processes that promote emergent relations and generative performance.
  • C. Measurement, Data Display, and Interpretation (20 of 150 scored questions) (13%)
    • C.1. Define and identify dimensions of behavior (e.g., count, duration, magnitude).
    • C.2. Describe the form (i.e., topography) and develop operational definitions of behavior.
    • C.3. Distinguish among direct, indirect, and product measures of behavior.
    • C.4. Develop and implement continuous measurement procedures (e.g., duration recording, event recording).
    • C.5. Develop and implement discontinuous measurement procedures (e.g., interval recording, time sampling).
    • C.6. Evaluate the validity and reliability of measurement procedures.
    • C.7. Select a measurement system to obtain representative data given the dimensions of behavior and the logistics of observing and recording.
    • C.8. Graph data to communicate relevant quantitative relations (e.g., equal-interval graphs, bar graphs, cumulative records).
    • C.9. Interpret graphed data.
    • C.10. Develop and evaluate mastery criteria.
  • D. Experimental Design (10 of 150 scored questions) (7%)
    • D.1. Distinguish between dependent and independent variables.
    • D.2. Distinguish between internal and external validity.
    • D.3. Identify the defining features of single-case experimental designs (e.g., individuals serve as their own controls, repeated measures, prediction, verification, replication).
    • D.4. Identify strengths of single-case experimental design.
    • D.5. Distinguish among and implement single-case experimental designs (e.g., reversal, multiple baseline, multielement, changing criterion).
    • D.6. Distinguish among and implement comparative, component, and parametric analyses.
  • E. Ethical and Professional Issues (18 of 150 scored questions) (12%)
    • E.1. Identify and apply core principles underlying the ethics codes for BACB certificants (e.g., benefit others; treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect; behave with integrity).
    • E.2. Identify the risks to oneself, others, and the profession associated with engaging in unethical behavior (e.g., misuse of social media, misrepresentation of one’s credential, making confidential information public).
    • E.3. Identify one’s area(s) of competence and when to seek a supervisor’s guidance.
    • E.4. Identify professional development activities that strengthen and expand areas of competence (e.g., attend conferences, read literature, seek consultation, establish mentors).
    • E.5. Identify and comply with requirements for collecting, using, protecting, and disclosing confidential information.
    • E.6. Identify steps that should be taken when transitioning clients or supervisees to another professional or when a BCaBA transitions to a different supervisor.
    • E.7. Identify types of and risks associated with multiple relationships, and how to mitigate those risks when they are unavoidable.
    • E.8. Identify and apply interpersonal and other skills (e.g., accepting feedback, listening actively, seeking input, collaborating) to establish and maintain professional relationships.
    • E.9. Engage in cultural humility in service delivery and professional relationships.
    • E.10. Apply culturally responsive and inclusive service and supervision activities.
    • E.11. Identify and apply the legal, regulatory, and practice requirements (e.g., licensure, jurisprudence, funding, certification) relevant to the delivery of behavior-analytic services.
  • F. Behavior Assessment (17 of 150 scored questions) (11%)
    • F.1. Review relevant information in available records and data (e.g., educational, medical, historical) at the outset of a case.
    • F.2. Identify conditions that warrant behavior-analytic services.
    • F.3. Identify and prioritize socially significant, client-informed, and culturally responsive behavior-change goals.
    • F.4. Implement assessments of relevant skill strengths and deficits, and contextual fit (e.g., client values, cultural variables, social validity, environmental resources).
    • F.5. Implement preference and reinforcer assessments.
    • F.6. Implement functional assessments of behavior, including indirect, descriptive, and experimental analyses.
  • G. Behavior-Change Procedures (22 of 150 scored questions) (15%)
    • G.1. Develop and implement positive and negative reinforcement procedures, including contingent and noncontingent applications.
    • G.2. Develop and implement procedures to establish and use conditioned reinforcers.
    • G.3. Develop and implement procedures that incorporate motivating operations and discriminative stimuli.
    • G.4. Develop and implement procedures to teach simple and conditional discriminations.
    • G.5. Develop and implement procedures using stimulus and response prompts that include appropriate fading procedures (e.g., errorless, least-to-most, stimulus fading).
    • G.6. Develop and implement modeling procedures.
    • G.7. Develop and implement procedures that use instructions and rules.
    • G.8. Develop and implement shaping procedures.
    • G.9. Develop and implement chaining procedures.
    • G.10. Develop and implement procedures to teach elementary verbal operants.
    • G.11. Develop and implement procedures to promote emergent relations and generative performance.
    • G.12. Develop and implement procedures that promote behavioral persistence.
    • G.13. Develop and implement acquisition procedures that are appropriate to the client’s skills and intervention goals (e.g., discrete-trial, free-operant, and naturalistic teaching arrangements).
    • G.14. Develop and implement group contingency procedures.
    • G.15. Develop and implement contingency contracting procedures.
    • G.16. Develop and implement self-management procedures.
    • G.17. Develop and implement procedures to promote stimulus and response generalization.
    • G.18. Develop and implement differential reinforcement procedures with and without extinction.
    • G.19. Define and implement positive and negative punishment procedures (e.g., time-out, response cost, overcorrection).
    • G.20. Develop and implement procedures to promote maintenance of behavior change.
  • H. Intervention Development and Monitoring (20 of 150 scored questions) (13%)
    • H.1. State intervention goals in observable and measurable terms.
    • H.2. Identify potential interventions based on assessment results and scientific evidence.
    • H.3. Develop intervention goals and procedures based on risks and contextual fit (e.g., client preferences and values, cultural variables, social validity, environmental resources).
    • H.4. Identify alternative behaviors to be established or increased when a target behavior is to be decreased.
    • H.5. Identify possible unwanted effects when using reinforcement, extinction, and punishment procedures.
    • H.6. Evaluate client progress and procedural integrity.
    • H.7. Make data-based decisions about the effectiveness of procedures and the need for modification.
    • H.8. Collaborate with and include others who support and/or provide services to clients.
  • I. Supervisory Relationships (15 of 150 scored questions) (10%)
    • I.1. Use behavior-analytic supervision practices and state the potential risks of ineffective supervision (e.g., poor client outcomes, impaired job satisfaction, employee turnover).
    • I.2. Identify and apply strategies for establishing and maintaining effective supervisory relationships (e.g., active listening, providing reinforcement, reciprocal feedback).
    • I.3. Identify and implement methods that promote equity in supervision practices.
    • I.4. Establish clear performance expectations for the supervisor and supervisee.
    • I.5. Select supervision goals based on an assessment of the supervisee’s skills.
    • I.6. Apply empirically validated and competency-based approaches to train supervisees to perform assessment and intervention procedures.
    • I.7. Identify and apply empirically validated and culturally responsive performance management procedures (e.g., modeling, practice, feedback, reinforcement, task clarification, manipulation of response effort).
    • I.8. Apply a function-based approach (e.g., performance diagnostics) to assess and improve supervisee behavior.
    • I.9. Evaluate the effects of supervision (e.g., on client outcomes, on supervisee repertoires).
Examination sources

BCBA Certification Examination

Provider
Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB); delivered by Pearson VUE in person at authorized Pearson VUE testing sites
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination, continuously available and offered only in English; each question has 4 possible answers and only 1 correct answer; all questions are equally weighted and the result is based on overall performance
Exam questions
185 multiple-choice questions: 175 scored and 10 unscored
Time limit
4 hours
Passing score
Pass/fail; criterion-referenced passing score established by the modified Angoff method
Exam fee
$245 certification application (BACB) plus $125 examination appointment (Pearson VUE); $140 examination retake application
Examination outline
  • A. Behaviorism and Philosophical Foundations (8 of 175 scored questions) (5%)
    • A.1. Identify the goals of behavior analysis as a science (i.e., description, prediction, control).
    • A.2. Explain the philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis (e.g., selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, pragmatism).
    • A.3. Explain behavior from the perspective of radical behaviorism.
    • A.4. Distinguish among behaviorism, the experimental analysis of behavior, applied behavior analysis, and professional practice guided by the science of behavior analysis.
    • A.5. Identify and describe dimensions of applied behavior analysis.
  • B. Concepts and Principles (24 of 175 scored questions) (14%)
    • B.1. Identify and distinguish among behavior, response, and response class.
    • B.2. Identify and distinguish between stimulus and stimulus class.
    • B.3. Identify and distinguish between respondent and operant conditioning.
    • B.4. Identify and distinguish between positive and negative reinforcement contingencies.
    • B.5. Identify and distinguish between positive and negative punishment contingencies.
    • B.6. Identify and distinguish between automatic and socially mediated contingencies.
    • B.7. Identify and distinguish among unconditioned, conditioned, and generalized reinforcers.
    • B.8. Identify and distinguish among unconditioned, conditioned, and generalized punishers.
    • B.9. Identify and distinguish among simple schedules of reinforcement.
    • B.10. Identify and distinguish among concurrent, multiple, mixed, and chained schedules of reinforcement.
    • B.11. Identify and distinguish between operant and respondent extinction as operations and processes.
    • B.12. Identify examples of stimulus control.
    • B.13. Identify examples of stimulus discrimination.
    • B.14. Identify and distinguish between stimulus and response generalization.
    • B.15. Identify examples of response maintenance.
    • B.16. Identify examples of motivating operations.
    • B.17. Distinguish between motivating operations and stimulus control.
    • B.18. Identify and distinguish between rule-governed and contingency-shaped behavior.
    • B.19. Identify and distinguish among verbal operants.
    • B.20. Identify the role of multiple control in verbal behavior.
    • B.21. Identify examples of processes that promote emergent relations and generative performance.
    • B.22. Identify ways behavioral momentum can be used to understand response persistence.
    • B.23. Identify ways the matching law can be used to interpret response allocation.
    • B.24. Identify and distinguish between imitation and observational learning.
  • C. Measurement, Data Display, and Interpretation (21 of 175 scored questions) (12%)
    • C.1. Create operational definitions of behavior.
    • C.2. Distinguish among direct, indirect, and product measures of behavior.
    • C.3. Measure occurrence.
    • C.4. Measure temporal dimensions of behavior (e.g., duration, latency, interresponse time).
    • C.5. Distinguish between continuous and discontinuous measurement procedures.
    • C.6. Design and apply discontinuous measurement procedures (e.g., interval recording, time sampling).
    • C.7. Measure efficiency (e.g., trials to criterion, cost-benefit analysis, training duration).
    • C.8. Evaluate the validity and reliability of measurement procedures.
    • C.9. Select a measurement procedure to obtain representative data that accounts for the critical dimension of the behavior and environmental constraints.
    • C.10. Graph data to communicate relevant quantitative relations (e.g., equal-interval graphs, bar graphs, cumulative records).
    • C.11. Interpret graphed data.
    • C.12. Select a measurement procedure to obtain representative procedural integrity data that accounts for relevant dimensions (e.g., accuracy, dosage) and environmental constraints.
  • D. Experimental Design (13 of 175 scored questions) (7%)
    • D.1. Distinguish between dependent and independent variables.
    • D.2. Distinguish between internal and external validity.
    • D.3. Identify threats to internal validity (e.g., history, maturation).
    • D.4. Identify the defining features of single-case experimental designs (e.g., individuals serve as their own controls, repeated measures, prediction, verification, replication).
    • D.5. Identify the relative strengths of single-case experimental designs and group designs.
    • D.6. Critique and interpret data from single-case experimental designs.
    • D.7. Distinguish among reversal, multiple-baseline, multielement, and changing-criterion designs.
    • D.8. Identify rationales for conducting comparative, component, and parametric analyses.
    • D.9. Apply single-case experimental designs.
  • E. Ethical and Professional Issues (22 of 175 scored questions) (13%)
    • E.1. Identify and apply core principles underlying the ethics codes for BACB certificants (e.g., benefit others; treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect; behave with integrity).
    • E.2. Identify the risks to oneself, others, and the profession as a result of engaging in unethical behavior.
    • E.3. Develop and maintain competence by engaging in professional development activities (e.g., read literature, seek consultation, establish mentors).
    • E.4. Identify and comply with requirements for collecting, using, protecting, and disclosing confidential information.
    • E.5. Identify and comply with requirements for making public statements about professional activities (e.g., social media activity; misrepresentation of professional credentials, behavior analysis, and service outcomes).
    • E.6. Identify the conditions under which services or supervision should be discontinued and apply steps that should be taken when transitioning clients and supervisees to another professional.
    • E.7. Identify types of and risks associated with multiple relationships, and how to mitigate those risks when they are unavoidable.
    • E.8. Identify and apply interpersonal and other skills (e.g., accepting feedback, listening actively, seeking input, collaborating) to establish and maintain professional relationships.
    • E.9. Engage in cultural humility in service delivery and professional relationships.
    • E.10. Apply culturally responsive and inclusive service and supervision activities.
    • E.11. Identify personal biases and how they might interfere with professional activity.
    • E.12. Identify and apply the legal, regulatory, and practice requirements (e.g., licensure, jurisprudence, funding, certification) relevant to the delivery of behavior-analytic services.
  • F. Behavior Assessment (23 of 175 scored questions) (13%)
    • F.1. Identify relevant sources of information in records (e.g., educational, medical, historical) at the outset of the case.
    • F.2. Identify and integrate relevant cultural variables in the assessment process.
    • F.3. Design and evaluate assessments of relevant skill strengths and areas of need.
    • F.4. Design and evaluate preference assessments.
    • F.5. Design and evaluate descriptive assessments.
    • F.6. Design and evaluate functional analyses.
    • F.7. Interpret assessment data to determine the need for behavior-analytic services and/or referral to others.
    • F.8. Interpret assessment data to identify and prioritize socially significant, client-informed, and culturally responsive behavior-change procedures and goals.
  • G. Behavior-Change Procedures (25 of 175 scored questions) (14%)
    • G.1. Design and evaluate positive and negative reinforcement procedures.
    • G.2. Design and evaluate differential reinforcement (e.g., DRA, DRO, DRL, DRH) procedures with and without extinction.
    • G.3. Design and evaluate time-based reinforcement (e.g., fixed-time) schedules.
    • G.4. Identify procedures to establish and use conditioned reinforcers (e.g., token economies).
    • G.5. Incorporate motivating operations and discriminative stimuli into behavior-change procedures.
    • G.6. Design and evaluate procedures to produce simple and conditional discriminations.
    • G.7. Select and evaluate stimulus and response prompting procedures (e.g., errorless, most-to-least, least-to-most).
    • G.8. Design and implement procedures to fade stimulus and response prompts (e.g., prompt delay, stimulus fading).
    • G.9. Design and evaluate modeling procedures.
    • G.10. Design and evaluate instructions and rules.
    • G.11. Shape dimensions of behavior.
    • G.12. Select and implement chaining procedures.
    • G.13. Design and evaluate trial-based and free-operant procedures.
    • G.14. Design and evaluate group contingencies.
    • G.15. Design and evaluate procedures to promote stimulus and response generalization.
    • G.16. Design and evaluate procedures to maintain desired behavior change following intervention (e.g., schedule thinning, transferring to naturally occurring reinforcers).
    • G.17. Design and evaluate positive and negative punishment (e.g., time-out, response cost, overcorrection).
    • G.18. Evaluate emotional and elicited effects of behavior-change procedures.
    • G.19. Design and evaluate procedures to promote emergent relations and generative performance.
  • H. Selecting and Implementing Interventions (20 of 175 scored questions) (11%)
    • H.1. Develop intervention goals in observable and measurable terms.
    • H.2. Identify and recommend interventions based on assessment results, scientific evidence, client preferences, and contextual fit (e.g., expertise required for implementation, cultural variables, environmental resources).
    • H.3. Select socially valid alternative behavior to be established or increased when a target behavior is to be decreased.
    • H.4. Plan for and attempt to mitigate possible unwanted effects when using reinforcement, extinction, and punishment procedures.
    • H.5. Plan for and attempt to mitigate possible relapse of the target behavior.
    • H.6. Make data-based decisions about procedural integrity.
    • H.7. Make data-based decisions about the effectiveness of the intervention and the need for modification.
    • H.8. Collaborate with others to support and enhance client services.
  • I. Personnel Supervision and Management (19 of 175 scored questions) (11%)
    • I.1. Identify the benefits of using behavior-analytic supervision (e.g., improved client outcomes, improved staff performance and retention).
    • I.2. Identify and apply strategies for establishing effective supervisory relationships (e.g., executing supervisor-supervisee contracts, establishing clear expectations, giving and accepting feedback).
    • I.3. Identify and implement methods that promote equity in supervision practices.
    • I.4. Select supervision goals based on an assessment of the supervisee’s skills, cultural variables, and the environment.
    • I.5. Identify and apply empirically validated and culturally responsive performance management procedures (e.g., modeling, practice, feedback, reinforcement, task clarification, manipulation of response effort).
    • I.6. Apply a function-based approach (e.g., performance diagnostics) to assess and improve supervisee behavior.
    • I.7. Make data-based decisions about the efficacy of supervisory practices.
Examination sources