Home Compare ADC vs BCBA

Exam Comparison

ADC vs BCBA

Comparing the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam and the Board Certified Behavior Analyst Exam. Both fall under Behavioral Health. Both are covered by the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app.

ADC Overview → BCBA Overview →

ADC vs BCBA: At a Glance

Detail ADC BCBA
Full Name Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam Board Certified Behavior Analyst Exam
Governing Body IC&RC BACB
Number of Questions 150 185
Time Limit 3 hours 4 hours
Passing Score Scaled (varies by jurisdiction, approx. 75%) 65% (scaled)
Exam Fee $195 USD $245 USD
Category Behavioral Health Behavioral Health
C3RT App Behavioral Health Exam Prep Behavioral Health Exam Prep

Content Areas Compared

ADC Domains

  • Screening, Assessment, and Engagement
  • Treatment Planning, Collaboration, and Referral
  • Counseling
  • Professional and Ethical Practice

BCBA Domains

  • Philosophical Underpinnings
  • Concepts and Principles
  • Measurement, Data Display, and Interpretation
  • Experimental Design
  • Ethics
  • Behavior Assessment
  • Behavior-Change Procedures
  • Selecting and Implementing Interventions
  • Personnel Supervision and Management

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ADC and BCBA?

The ADC (Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam) is administered by IC&RC and consists of 150 questions. The BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst Exam) is administered by BACB and consists of 185 questions. Both are Behavioral Health credentials.

Can I take both the ADC and the BCBA?

Yes, the ADC and BCBA are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (IC&RC and BACB respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.

Which should I take first, ADC or BCBA?

The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The ADC is offered by IC&RC with a passing score of Scaled (varies by jurisdiction, approx. 75%), while the BCBA is offered by BACB with a passing score of 65% (scaled). Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.

Does C3RT cover both the ADC and the BCBA?

Yes. Both the ADC and BCBA are covered in the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app for iOS and Mac.

The Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam (ADC) is administered by IC&RC. The Board Certified Behavior Analyst Exam (BCBA) is administered by BACB. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.