BCBA recertification is required every two years to maintain your Board Certified Behavior Analyst credential and continue practicing ethically and effectively. Understanding BCBA recertification requirements, including CEU hours, ethics and supervision credits, renewal timelines, and application steps, is essential to avoid certification lapse. This complete BCBA recertification guide explains exactly how to renew your BCBA certification, track continuing education, and submit your renewal with confidence.
BCBA Recertification Guide
Maintaining your BCBA credential requires ongoing professional development and adherence to BACB standards. Every certificant must complete continuing education and submit a renewal application before their certification expiration date.
Planning ahead makes the process simple. This guide walks you through everything you need to know.
BCBA Recertification Requirements
BCBA certificants must renew every 2 years and complete the required Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Total CEUs Required
You must complete 32 CEUs every 2 years.
These CEUs are divided into required categories:
| Requirement | Hours |
|---|---|
| Total CEUs | 32 |
| Ethics CEUs | 4 |
| Supervision CEUs (if supervising) | 3 |
| General CEUs | Remaining hours |
If you supervise trainees or RBTs, supervision CEUs are required. If you do not supervise, those hours can be completed as general CEUs.
BCBA Recertification Timeline
Your certification cycle begins the day you pass the BCBA exam.
Typical Renewal Cycle
• Year 1–2: Earn CEUs
• Month 23: Begin renewal application
• Before expiration date: Submit renewal + fee
Waiting until the final month is one of the most common renewal mistakes.
How to Renew Your BCBA Certification
Follow these steps to complete BCBA recertification:
Step 1 — Complete Required CEUs
Earn 32 CEUs from approved providers.
Step 2 — Log Into BACB Gateway
Access your certification account.
Step 3 — Submit Renewal Application
Enter CEUs and verify compliance.
Step 4 — Pay Renewal Fee
Submit payment before expiration.
Step 5 — Receive Updated Certification Cycle
Your new 2-year cycle begins immediately.
Common BCBA Recertification Mistakes
Avoid these common issues:
• Waiting until the last minute to earn CEUs
• Missing ethics CEU requirement
• Forgetting supervision CEUs
• Losing CEU documentation
• Submitting renewal late
Planning early prevents certification lapse.
BCBA Recertification Checklist
Use this quick checklist to stay on track:
âś“ Track your CEUs throughout the cycle
âś“ Complete 32 CEUs total
âś“ Ensure 4 ethics CEUs are included
âś“ Complete supervision CEUs if required
âś“ Submit renewal before expiration
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do BCBAs renew certification?
Every two years.
What happens if my BCBA expires?
You may need to apply for reinstatement and pay additional fees.
Can CEUs be completed online?
Yes. Many BCBAs complete CEUs through self-paced online courses.
When should I start earning CEUs?
Ideally, start in the first year of your cycle.
Ready to Earn Your BCBA CEUs?
Stay ahead of your BCBA recertification deadline by completing high-quality CEUs throughout your certification cycle.
Start planning your CEUs today and renew with confidence.