Knowing exactly what to bring to your Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification exam is essential for a smooth testing experience. This comprehensive guide details all required items, prohibited materials, and Pearson VUE testing center policies specific to RBT certification exams.
Essential Items to Bring to Your RBT Exam
Arriving at your testing center with the proper documentation and materials is crucial for exam admission. The following items are absolutely essential:
Primary Identification Requirements
Your primary ID must meet ALL of these requirements:
- Government-issued
- Current (not expired)
- Include a photograph
- Include your signature
- Name must EXACTLY match your BACB account/exam registration
Acceptable forms of primary identification include:
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- Military ID
- Permanent resident card/alien registration card
- Government-issued national/state/province identity card
“The most common issue we see is candidates whose ID name doesn’t exactly match their registration name,” explains Pearson VUE test administrator Rachel Johnson. “Even minor discrepancies like a missing middle initial can create problems. Double-check that your ID and registration names are identical.”
Secondary Identification (If Required)
Some testing centers may request a secondary form of ID. Acceptable secondary identification includes:
- Credit/debit/bank card with signature
- Employee ID
- Student ID
- Health insurance card
- Social security card (in US)
Authorization to Test Email
While not always required at check-in, it’s advisable to bring:
- Your printed Pearson VUE confirmation email
- BACB authorization to test notification
Comfort Items (If Needed)
- Eyeglasses (no cases allowed in testing room)
- Sweater or light jacket (must be worn, not carried)
- Medical devices explicitly approved through accommodations process
“I recommend dressing in comfortable layers,” advises former RBT candidate Maria Chen. “Testing rooms can vary in temperature, and being too hot or cold can be distracting during your exam.”
Pearson VUE Testing Center Policies for RBT Exams
Understanding Pearson VUE testing center policies will help you prepare appropriately and avoid complications on exam day.
Check-In Procedures
Upon arrival at the Pearson VUE testing center, you will:
- Present your valid photo ID
- Sign a digital signature pad
- Have your photo taken
- Submit to a palm vein scan (in most locations)
- Empty all pockets completely
- Turn out pockets to verify they are empty
- Raise sleeves above wrists
- Lift pant legs above ankles
- Remove eyeglasses for inspection
“The security process may seem rigorous, but it’s standardized to maintain test integrity,” explains BCBA supervisor Dr. James Williams. “Understanding these procedures in advance helps reduce anxiety on test day.”
Personal Belongings Storage
All personal belongings must be stored in provided lockers, including:
- Wallets, purses, and bags
- Watches of any kind
- Cellular phones and electronic devices
- Hats, scarves, and outerwear
- Food and beverages
- Books and study materials
Testing centers provide noise-reducing earplugs or headphones if outside noise is a concern.
Accommodations Procedures
If you’ve been approved for testing accommodations:
- Bring your accommodation approval letter
- Arrive early to ensure proper setup
- Confirm accommodations with testing center staff during check-in
“If you require accommodations, contact both the BACB and Pearson VUE well in advance of your test date,” recommends Dr. Sarah Peterson, BCBA-D. “Accommodations must be approved before scheduling your exam.”
Prohibited Items and Materials
Being aware of prohibited items prevents complications at check-in. The following items are strictly prohibited in the testing room:
Electronic Devices
- Cell phones
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Smartwatches or any watches
- Fitness trackers
- Bluetooth devices
- Cameras
- Calculators
- Recording devices of any kind
Personal Items
- Wallets and purses
- Bags and backpacks
- Hats, caps, and head coverings (except religious apparel)
- Scarves
- Coats and jackets (unless worn for comfort)
- Gloves
- Sunglasses
- Weapons of any kind
Study Materials and Writing Implements
- Notes, books, or study materials
- Paper of any kind
- Pens, pencils, or erasers (the testing center provides an erasable noteboard and marker)
- Highlighters
Food and Beverages
- Food and candy
- Drinks of any kind
- Gum
“Attempting to bring prohibited items into the testing room can result in dismissal and invalidation of your test scores,” warns Pearson VUE security specialist Michael Torres. “All electronic devices must be completely powered off and stored in lockers—not just silenced.”
If you have a medical need for food, drink, or specific devices, you must request and receive formal accommodations in advance through the BACB and Pearson VUE.
Printable RBT Exam Day Packing List
Use this comprehensive checklist to verify you have all required items for your RBT exam:
Required Items:
- Primary government-issued photo ID with signature
- Secondary ID (if required by testing center)
- Pearson VUE appointment confirmation (recommended)
- BACB authorization to test email (recommended)
- Approved accommodation documentation (if applicable)
Recommended Items:
- Comfortable clothing in layers
- Hair ties for long hair
- Testing center address and phone number
- Transportation plan (directions, parking information)
- Small snack and water (to be stored in locker and consumed during breaks)
Do NOT Bring to Testing Room:
- Cell phone or any electronic devices
- Watches of any kind
- Wallets, purses, or bags
- Notebooks or paper
- Pens or pencils
- Food or beverages
- Hats or outerwear
- Bulky jewelry or accessories
Night Before Verification:
- Confirm ID name matches registration EXACTLY
- Check ID expiration date
- Print or save testing center directions
- Set out appropriate, comfortable clothing
- Charge phone (for emergency use before/after exam only)
“Organization is key to reducing test day stress,” advises RBT Maria Rodriguez. “I prepared everything the night before and placed my ID and confirmation email in a folder by the door so I wouldn’t forget anything essential.”
Expert Tips for RBT Exam Day Preparedness
RBT instructors and successful candidates offer these additional recommendations:
- Arrive early: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to accommodate check-in procedures.
- Know the policies: Review the Pearson VUE Test Taker Rules Agreement before your exam date.
- Minimize belongings: Bring only essential items to reduce check-in time and storage needs.
- Prepare for biometrics: Be ready for a palm vein scan, which is used to verify your identity at check-in and if you leave and return to the testing room during breaks.
- Plan for comfort: Consider testing center conditions when choosing clothing. Dress in layers that can be adjusted for temperature control.
- Know break policies: Understand that the test timer continues during unscheduled breaks, so use them judiciously.
“Being mentally prepared for the security and check-in process is as important as being prepared for the exam content,” notes Dr. Jason Lee, BCBA-D. “Candidates who understand what to expect can navigate the process confidently.”
By following this comprehensive guide to what to bring (and what not to bring) to your RBT exam, you’ll avoid common check-in issues and ensure a smooth testing experience. This preparation allows you to focus your energy where it belongs—on demonstrating your knowledge and passing your certification exam.
Next, learn what to expect once you’re inside the testing center by reviewing our guide to Testing Center Expectations.
Looking for more RBT exam preparation resources? Explore our comprehensive RBT Study Guide and free practice questions to complete your preparation strategy.