Maryland
Maryland requires mandatory state licensure for behavior analysts. Applicants must hold current BACB certification (BCBA or BCBA-D) and master's degree or higher from BACB-accredited program. Criminal history records check (CHRC) required before application. Legislation passed in 2014, effective January 2015.
Quick Reference
Licensing Board
Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists
License Verification
Online verification available
BACB Certification
BACB certification required
Available License Types
Detailed Requirements
Must hold master's degree or higher from a behavior analysis educational program accredited by the BACB or its successor organization.
Must meet BACB supervised fieldwork requirements: 1,500 hours Concentrated or 2,000 hours Standard for BCBA certification.
Must pass BACB certification examination. No additional state exam required.
Biennial renewal by January 31. Must complete 40 CEUs per renewal period: at least 30 CEUs in Category A activities, up to 10 CEUs in Category B activities. If licensed less than 2 years, 20 Category A CEUs required. Must maintain BACB certification in good standing. Random audits conducted; retain CE documentation for 4 years.
Application Fee: $200. License Fee (upon approval): $200. Total Initial Cost: $400. Biennial Renewal: $301. Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
BACB certification (BCBA or BCBA-D) is required for state licensure. Must maintain BACB certification in good standing for license renewal. State CE requirements (40 hours) exceed BACB minimum (32 hours).
Maryland was an early adopter of behavior analyst licensure (2014 legislation, effective January 2015). Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee advises the Board on ABA matters. CE requirements are 40 hours (vs. BACB's 32), with Category A/B classification. Processing time is 60-90 days. Maryland Association for Behavior Analysis (MABA) is the state professional organization.
As ABAI phases out the VCS (Verified Course Sequence) system in 2025, accepted coursework must be by attestation or accreditation. Administered under Maryland Health Occupations Article.
Additional Information
Maryland was one of the early states to require behavior analyst licensure (effective January 2015). Notable features: $400 total initial cost ($200 app + $200 license), $301 biennial renewal, and 40 CE hours required (exceeding BACB's 32 hours). The Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee provides professional oversight. Processing time is 60-90 days. MABA (Maryland Association for Behavior Analysis) is the state professional org.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference purposes. Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. Last updated: Jan 20, 2026.