PennsylvaniaBehavior Analyst License Requirements

Additional Notes

Pennsylvania uses the unique title 'Behavior Specialist License' rather than 'Licensed Behavior Analyst.'

Most states require behavior analysts to hold a state-issued license or certification in addition to BACB credentials. A few states (such as Alaska, Delaware, Idaho, and Maine) do not currently require state licensure, though BACB certification may still be required by employers and insurance payers.

Behavior analysts must earn a master's degree (or higher) in behavior analysis, psychology, education, or a related field. BACB-approved coursework in behavior analysis is required, typically covering ethics, experimental design, applied behavior analysis, and behavioral assessment.

Certification Maintenance

Recertification every 2 years; 32 CE units required including 4 in ethics and 3 in supervision. Renewal fee: $215 every 2 years.

The BACB examination is a computer-based test administered at Pearson VUE testing centers. It covers measurement, experimental design, behavior-change procedures, and professional/ethical compliance. Most states require current BACB certification as a prerequisite for state licensure.

BACB requires supervised fieldwork experience as part of certification. Fieldwork can be completed as concentrated (1,500 hours) or standard (2,000 hours). Supervision must be provided by a qualified BCBA or BCBA-D. States may have additional supervision requirements beyond BACB standards.

Behavior analysts provide applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, conduct behavioral assessments, develop behavior intervention plans (BIPs), and supervise Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs). Most states have autism insurance mandates requiring coverage of ABA services. Telehealth delivery of ABA services has expanded significantly.

CE Details

2 continuing education units per renewal cycle

Regulatory Board

Behavior analyst licenses must be renewed on schedule with the state licensing board. Additionally, BACB certification requires 32 continuing education units (CEUs) per 2-year certification cycle, including ethics and supervision-specific units. State CE requirements may differ from BACB requirements.

Reciprocity Requirements

• •Active BACB certification in good standing
• •Submit application to Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine
• •Provide verification of current out-of-state license (if applicable)
• •Pass criminal background check
• •Pay Pennsylvania application and license fees

Because BACB certification is a national credential, most states accept BACB-certified behavior analysts from other states through endorsement or transfer. Requirements typically include verification of BACB certification, background check, and meeting any state-specific requirements.