Florida
Florida does not require state licensure for behavior analysts. The state defers credentialing to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). BCBA certification is required for Medicaid reimbursement. Florida was historically the first state to offer behavior analyst certification (1993), but the program was transferred to BACB in October 2003.
Quick Reference
Licensing Board
None - No state licensing board for behavior analysts
License Verification
Contact board for verification
BACB Certification
BACB certification required
Available License Types
Detailed Requirements
No state-specific requirements. Follow BACB certification requirements: Master's degree for BCBA with approved coursework in behavior analysis.
No state-specific requirements. Follow BACB certification requirements: 2,000 hours supervised fieldwork or 1,500 hours concentrated supervised fieldwork.
No state exam required. Must pass the BACB certification examination (6th Edition Test Content Outline as of January 2025).
No state renewal. BACB certification renewal every 2 years with 32 CEUs (4 in ethics, 3 additional in supervision for those who supervise).
No state fees. BACB fees: $245 application fee, $215 biennial recertification fee.
BACB certification is the sole requirement to practice in Florida. The state transferred its original certification program (Florida Behavior Analysis Certification Program) to BACB in October 2003. Florida Medicaid requires BACB certification for reimbursement. Beginning February 2025, ABA services reimbursed through Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) program.
Florida is one of approximately 11 states without state licensure for behavior analysts. Florida has historical significance as the first state to offer behavior analyst certification in 1993 (now defunct). Legacy FL-CBA credential holders grandfathered through BACB - this designation is only valid in Florida. FL-CBAs whose certification expires must reapply under current BCBA requirements.
Beginning February 2025, ABA services will be reimbursed by Florida Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) program. FABA (Florida Association for Behavior Analysis) has presented on why Florida needs licensure. January 2025: BCBA exam updated to 6th Edition Test Content Outline.
Additional Information
Florida has unique historical significance as the first state to certify behavior analysts (1993). The Florida Behavior Analysis Certification Program was transferred to BACB in 2003, creating the legacy FL-CBA designation which is only valid in Florida. Despite being one of the fastest-growing states for ABA therapy, Florida still has no state licensure requirement - FABA advocates for licensure.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference purposes. Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official None - No state licensing board for behavior analysts. Last updated: Jan 19, 2026.