Each year, people are spending billions in alternative health care (which includes Massage Therapy). Massage Therapists can work for themselves, at home, at a clinic or at a spa. They can work part time, full time — as much as they want. These are just a few of the reasons why Massage Therapy is one of the fastest growing professional fields.

If you are planning to become a Massage Therapist, make sure you are working towards a Massage Therapy license in the location you wish to practice. Massage Therapy is now a regulated profession in 44 states and DC, and in a number of municipalities /localities. This means that you cannot practice as a Massage Therapist in those states and municipalities if you do not have a Massage Therapy license.

Almost all of the regulated states require 500 hours or more of training and/or passing an exam. Some require a minimum of 1,000 hours. This website will help you find out in advance what the requirements are in the location in which you want to practice.

Here is a list of American states and their requirements to get licensed as a Massage Therapist.
Click on the state for information about their requirements:

ALABAMA – Massage Licensing Requirements
ALASKA – Massage Licensing Requirements
ARIZONA – Massage Licensing Requirements
ARKANSAS – Massage Licensing Requirements
CALIFORNIA – Massage Licensing Requirements
COLORADO – Massage Licensing Requirements
CONNECTICUT – Massage Licensing Requirements
DELAWARE – Massage Licensing Requirements
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA – Massage Licensing Requirements
FLORIDA – Massage Licensing Requirements
GEORGIA – Massage Licensing Requirements
HAWAII – Massage Licensing Requirements
IDAHO – Massage Licensing Requirements
ILLINOIS – Massage Licensing Requirements
INDIANA – Massage Licensing Requirements
IOWA – Massage Licensing Requirements
KANSAS – Massage Licensing Requirements
KENTUCKY – Massage Licensing Requirements
LOUISIANA – Massage Licensing Requirements
MAINE – Massage Therapy Licensing Requirements
MARYLAND – Massage Licensing Requirements
MASSACHUSETTS – Massage Licensing Requirements
MICHIGAN – Massage Licensing Requirements
MINNESOTA – Massage Licensing Requirements
MISSISSIPPI – Massage Licensing Requirements
MISSOURI – Massage Licensing Requirements
MONTANA – Massage Licensing Requirements
NEBRASKA – Massage Licensing Requirements
NEVADA – Massage Licensing Requirements
NEW HAMPSHIRE – Massage Licensing Requirements
NEW JERSEY – Massage Licensing Requirements
NEW MEXICO – Massage Licensing Requirements
NEW YORK – Massage Therapy Requirements
NORTH CAROLINA – Massage Licensing Requirements
NORTH DAKOTA – Massage Licensing Requirements
OHIO – Massage Licensing Requirements
OKLAHOMA – Massage Licensing Requirements
OREGON – Massage Therapy Requirements
PENNSYLVANIA – Massage Licensing Requirements
RHODE ISLAND – Massage Licensing Requirements
SOUTH CAROLINA – Massage Licensing Requirements
SOUTH DAKOTA – Massage Licensing Requirements
TENNESSEE – Massage Licensing Requirements
TEXAS – Massage Licensing Requirements
UTAH – Massage Licensing Requirements
VERMONT – Massage Licensing Requirements
VIRGINIA – Massage Licensing Requirements
WASHINGTON – Massage Licensing Requirements
WEST VIRGINIA – Massage Licensing Requirements
WISCONSIN – Massage Licensing Requirements
WYOMING – Massage Licensing Requirements

( How to become a masseuse in Alabama: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Alabama

In the state of Alabama, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the ABMT.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Alabama:

1. A minimum of 650 hours from an Approved Massage Therapy School in Alabama
2. Certification with the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
3. $1,000,000 Personal Liability Insurance coverage
4. An Application request form at the cost of $25.00 (Cashier’s Check or Money Order) per application package. Initial Establishment License Fee = $100.00

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Alabama, visit:

http://www.almtbd.state.al.us/

Alabama Massage Therapy Board
2777 Zelda Road
Montgomery, AL 36106
Ph: (334) 420-7233
Fax: (334) 263-6115

( How to become a masseuse in Alaska: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Alaska

In the state of Alaska, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation handled by the Board of Massage Therapists under Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing in the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development.

Per Alaska regulation 12 AAC 79.120, the option to apply for a transitional massage therapist license ended onJuly 1, 2017.

A coalition of massage therapists formed in 2013 to assess whether Alaska should license massage therapists. This coalition included the American Massage Therapy Association — Alaska Chapter (AMTA -AK) and the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP), as well as chiropractors, Rolfers, reflexologists, physical therapists and many others. This coalition lobbied the Alaska State Legislature for licensure, and state licensing legislation was passed by the legislature in 2014.

Alaska Massage Therapy licensing requirements:

1. Verification of Education: At least 500 hours of in-class supervised instruction and clinical work from a board-approved massage school. Transcripts must be sent directly to the Division by the school.
   • What are the board-approved schools or credentialing organizations?
     The Board of Massage Therapists has not approved specific schools; however, on June 15, 2015, it approved that the following accrediting/credentialing agencies be included in proposed regulations, being put out for public comment.
     – American Massage Therapy Association
     – Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals
     – National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
     – Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation
2. Verification of Examination: Alaska Statute 08.61.030(a)(8) requires successful completion of a nationally
   – recognized competency exam approved by the Board. Exam results must be provided.
   • What are the board-approved exams?
     On June 15, 2015, The Board of Massage Therapists approved that the following accrediting/credentialing agencies be included in proposed regulations, being put out for public comment:
     – Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards
     (MBLEX)
     – National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
     (NCETMB/NCETM)
3. Have been fingerprinted and passed a national criminal history record check
4. Have a current CPR certification
5. Completion of at least 4 hours of safety education in blood borne pathogens and universal
   precautions in the 2 years preceding July 1, 2015.
6. Has not been convicted of, or pled guilty or no contest to, a crime involving moral turpitude, or who has been convicted of, or pled guilty or not contest to, a crime involving moral turpitude if the board finds that the conviction does not affect the applicant’s ability to practice competently and safely.

NOTE: For Massage Therapists already licensed in another State or Country: Verification of Credentials: Alaska Statute 08.61.040 requires verification of current licensure to practice massage therapy in another state or country with licensing requirements that are substantially equal to or greater than Alaska’s requirements; or certification by a certification entity approved by the Board.

For more information on becoming a Licensed Massage Therapist in Alaska, visit:

https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardofMassageTherapists.aspx

https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/portals/5/pub/MAS_FAQ.pdf

Alaska Board of Massage Therapy
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806
Phone: (907) 465-3811
Fax: (907) 465-2974

( How to become a masseuse in Arizona: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Arizona

In the state of Arizona, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the ABMT.

There are two ways to obtain a license to perform massage therapy in Arizona: (1) Reciprocity and (2) Regular.

(1)RECIPROCITY applies to applicants who meet Provision 1 or Provision 2 as stated below:

Provision 1: An applicant who has been STATE licensed for at least five continuous years immediately before the application submission date, and the state has standards substantially equivalent to Arizona standards. Required: Licensure verification must be submitted directly to this Board from the licensing agency.
Provision 2: An applicant who holds current certification from the NCBTMB or another agency the Board recognizes as meeting equivalent educational and training standards.(Note: MBLEX does not certify) and graduated from a board-approved school* with at least 500 hours or more.
Required: Exam results must be submitted directly to this Board from the testing agency. Massage school transcript reflecting completed clock hours must be submitted directly to this board from the school. *

(2)REGULAR is for all other applicants.

• An applicant who has graduated from an Arizona recognized school with at least 700 hours
  • Massage school transcript reflecting completed clock hours must be submitted directly to the Arizona board from the school.
  • If the school is not accredited, the applicant must also pass a test given by the Federation Board (MBLEX) or an exam given by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.
• passed an exam for State Licensing given by the Federation Board (MBLEX) OR the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.
  • Exam results must be submitted directly to the Board from the testing agency.

Steps in Applying for a Massage License in Arizona:

1. ONLINE APPLICATION Choose between Reciprocity and Regular
2. In addition to the online application, you will need to provide by mail the following materials:

• a color 2 x 2 photo.
• a fingerprint card with your application. The card should have APPLICANT on the left hand corner.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship / Non U.S. Citizenship.

Transcripts, verifications, and test scores should be sent directly from the source to the Arizona Massage Board. Once your application is received and is in process, you may receive notification of incompleteness through an email or U.S. mail notifying you of documents that are necessary to complete your application.

It should take about 6 to 8 weeks to process your application as long as the application is complete. When checking the status of your application, you can also view your status on their website.

List of Approved Massage Schools in Arizona -> https://massagetherapy.az.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/Approved%20School%20List_49.pdf

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Arizona, Visit: http://www.massageboard.az.gov/

Arizona Board of Massage Therapy
1400 West Washington, Suite 300
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: (602) 542-8604
Fax: (602) 542-8804

( How to become a masseuse in Arkansas: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Arkansas

In the state of Arkansas, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the State Board of Health and the Arkansas Department of Health. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with them.

Act 1020 of 2015 was signed into law by Governor Asa Hutchinson on April 6, 2015. The law abolishes the Arkansas State Board of Massage Therapy and transfers it to the State Board of Health and the Arkansas Department of Health. The Act also creates the Massage Therapy Technical Advisory Committee.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Arkansas:

Massage Therapy Examination Application and Licensure Process: (Beginning February 2017)

1. Section receives all required documents and fees prior to state law examination(incomplete packets will be returned to applicant along with notification of missing documents):

• Completed Application
• $180.00 Cashier’s Check or Money Order
• Valid Photo ID: Driver’s License, State-issued ID Card, Passport, or US Military ID
• Copy of Social Security Card
• Copy of High School Diploma and/or Transcript, College Diploma and/or Transcript, or GED
• Current TB Test — (Less than a year old) Must be issued by a qualified medical doctor (excluding Chiropractors) on Official Letterhead, Clinic Form, or Health Card
• Massage School Diploma
• Massage School Transcript
• MBLEx or NCBTMB exam Score Report
• Criminal Background Checks
• Verification of Licensure (Out of state applicants)

2. Once all correct and complete documents and fees are received, the applicant will receive an e-mail containing a link and access to the online version of the state law examination.

3. Results will be sent via email to the applicant.

4. If a passing score is not achieved, a Re-Examination Form and payment of $25.00 mailed to the Section will be required before gaining access to online examination for re-testing.

List of Approved Massage Therapy Schools in Arkansas: http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programsServices/hsLicensingRegulation/MassageTherapy/Pages/Schools.aspx

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Arkansas, visit: http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programsServices/hsLicensingRegulation/MassageTherapy/Pages/default.aspx

Arkansas State Board of Massage Therapy
101 East Capitol Ave, Ste 460
P.O. Box 2019
Little Rock, AR 72203
Ph: (501) 683-1448
Fax: (501) 683-1426

( How to become a masseuse in California: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

California

In the state of California, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the California Massage Therapy Council. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the California Massage Therapy Council.

California Massage Therapy License Requirements:

In order to obtain CAMTC Certification as a Certified Massage Therapist, an applicant shall submit an application in its entirety and provide satisfactory evidence that he or she meets all of the following requirements:

1. The applicant is 18 years of age or older.
2. The applicant has successfully completed the curricula in massage and related subjects totaling a minimum of 500 hours, or the credit unit equivalent, that incorporates appropriate school assessment of student knowledge and skills. Of the 500 hours, a minimum of 100 hours of instruction shall address anatomy and physiology, contraindications, health and hygiene, and business and ethics. All of the 500 hours shall be from a CAMTC approved school program.
3. The applicant has passed one of the following CAMTC approved exams:
   • Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx)
   • Board Certification Exam in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork(BCETMB)
   • National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB) — Taken on or before February 2015
   • National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM) – Taken on or before February 2015
   • New York State Massage Therapy Examination
4. The applicant has successfully passed a Live Scan fingerprint background investigation specific to CAMTC and has not violated any of the provisions of the California Massage Therapy Act or any policy, procedures, or regulations of CAMTC.
5. All fees required by the council have been paid.

Note the CAMTC Closed School Policy:

CAMTC will accept education for CAMTC certification purposes from schools closed on or before June 30, 2016, with either no lawful custodian of records or a lawful custodian of records that is not a CAMTC approved school as long as all of the following conditions are met:

1) The education occurred at a time when the closed school was approved or accredited by at least one of the organizations listed in California Business and Professions Code section 4601;

2) The closed school is or was not subject to any disciplinary actions or pending investigations by any approval or accrediting agencies, Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA), government agencies, CAMTC or other massage or school related entities;
3) The applicant for CAMTC certification provides verifiable proof that the education received at the closed school meets minimum standards for training and curriculum and the statutory education requirements for certification; and

4) The individual application for CAMTC CMT certification is received in the CAMTC office on or before December 31, 2018. Applicants whose applications are received after this date may still use education from closed schools described in this section 3.A.a. for CAMTC certification purposes as long as they either provide proof of current and continuous city and/or county permit(s) to provide massage for compensation or they pass a CAMTC education hearing (oral telephonic hearing or consideration of a written statement).

For more information on How to become a Certified Massage Therapist or a Certified Massage Practitioner in California, Visit http://www.camtc.org/

California Massage Therapy Council
One Capitol Mall, Suite 800
Sacramento, CA 95814
Ph: (916) 669-5336
FAX: (916) 444-7462

( How to become a masseuse in Colorado: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Colorado

In the state of Colorado, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies – Office of Massage Therapist Licensure. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with them.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Colorado:

1. Education: You must have completed a massage therapy program that consisted of at least 500 hours of course work and clinical work at an approved massage therapy school. You must request that your school send your original transcript in a sealed envelope directly to the Office of Licensing — Attn: MT Licensure. You must also upload documentation demonstrating your school’s accreditation by an appropriate community college system, educational body or nationally recognized accrediting agency.
2. Required Fee: You must pay the $ 200 application processing fee with a credit card or electronic check to complete the application process. All fees are non-refundable and are subject to change.
3. List and Verify your other licenses: You will be asked to list ALL other states or jurisdictions where you hold or have held a license as a massage therapist. You can provide scanned copy verification from the other state or jurisdiction website, but it must indicate whether or not you have ever had disciplinary action taken against that license. If you are unable to upload verification, you can have the other state or jurisdiction send verification directly to the Office of Licensing — Attn: MT Licensure. A copy of your license will NOT suffice.
4. Examination: You must have passed one of the following examinations:
   • Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB); Contact info: Website: www.fsmtb.org/; Phone: (866) 962-3926;
   • National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB) or National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM) offered by the Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB); Contact info: Website: www.ncbtmb.org/; Phone: 1 (800) 296-0664;
   • OR
   • Another examination applicable to the practice of massage therapy, as approved by the Director.
   • IMPORTANT NOTE: You must provide Primary Source verification that you passed one of the above examinations. Please contact your exam vendor to request that your exam results be sent to the Office of Licensing. Your application cannot be processed without Primary Source verification.
5. Fingerprint and Background Check: You must submit fingerprints to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in order to conduct a state and national background check. The results of your
   background check from CBI are only available to the Office of Licensing for a period of 90 days AFTER your application is received. Therefore, you should complete the MT application within one week of submitting your fingerprints to CBI. You should also TAKE AND PASS your test before having your fingerprints taken. You must submit to a background check specifically for your massage therapy license.You cannot use a previous background check or a background check from another state or jurisdiction.Instructions for the background check are available on the MT Applications and Forms webpage: www.colorado.gov/dora/Massage_Therapy_Applications.
6. Liability Insurance: You must attest that you individually carry or will carry and maintain upon commencement of practice, professional liability insurance in an amount of not less than $50,000 per claim with an aggregate liability limit for all claims during the year of $300,000 as required by § 12-35.5-116, C.R.S.
7. Complete the Affidavit of Eligibility: You will be asked to attest to and provide information that you are lawfully present in the United States or otherwise eligible to work in Colorado.
8. Provide your social security number: As of January 1, 2009, a Social Security Number is required for all licensees. Exceptions are made for foreign nationals not physically present in the United States and for non-immigrants in the United States on student visas who do not have a Social Security Number. These applicants must submit a signed Social Security Number Affidavit in lieu of a Social Security Number.
9. Provide name change documentation (if applicable): If you already have another type of license in Colorado and your name has since changed, you’re presenting documentation for licensure with a previous name, or if any required documentation has a different name on it, you’ll be required to upload proof of your name change.
10. Answer the Screening Questions: You will be asked a series of screening questions related to your criminal history or pending complaints filed against you in other jurisdictions (if applicable). This may require you to upload court documents or other material. The Director may deny a license if the applicant has committed any act that would be grounds for disciplinary action under Section 12-35.5-111 of the Colorado Revised Statutes or the applicant was convicted of or pled guilty to a charge of sexual behavior defined in § 16-22-102, C.R.S., or any prostitution-related offense, whether or not the act was committed in Colorado. Please review the Division’s information regarding the disclosure of criminal history contained within these instructions.
11. Healthcare Professions Profiling Program (HPPP): You will be asked a series of questions concerning your practice after submitting your online application. This profile is required for healthcare professionals in Colorado. Your application is not considered complete and a license cannot be issued until you have submitted your online profile. Your Healthcare Professions Profile is an ongoing responsibility; you must update your profile online within 30 days of changes and/or reportable events. As you complete your profile, please read the instructions carefully. For more information visit: www.colorado.gov/dora/HPPP or call 303-894-5942.

Foreign Trained Applicants: If you are foreign trained you must have your qualifications, credentials and work experience reviewed. You must be able to upload a report of your review at the time of application. DO NOT apply until you can submit a report from one of following agencies:
International Consultants of Delaware (ICD). For information on ordering the review, visit the
website at: www.icdeval.com; call (215) 222-8454, ext. 603; or write International Consultants of
Delaware, 3600 Market St Suite 450, Philadelphia, PA 19104-2651 USA.
–OR–
International Education Research Foundation, Inc. (IERF). For information on ordering the review,
visit the website at: www.ierf.org; call (310) 258-9451; or write International Education Research
Foundation, Inc., PO Box 3665, Culver City, CA 90231 USA.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Colorado, Visit https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/dora/Massage_Therapy

Colorado
Department of Regulatory Agencies
1560 Broadway, Suite 1350
Denver, CO 80202
Ph: (303) 894-7800
FAX: (303) 894-7764

( How to become a masseuse in Connecticut: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Connecticut

In the state of Connecticut, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Connecticut Department of Public Health Massage Therapy Licensure. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Connecticut Department of Public Health Massage Therapy Licensure.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Connecticut:

1. Graduation from a school of massage therapy offering a course of study of not less than five hundred (500) classroom hours with the instructor present, and at the time of the applicant’s graduation held a current school code assigned by the NCBTMB and was either (A) accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education or by a state board of post-secondary technical trade and business schools; or (B) accredited by the COMTA.
   • NCBTMB = National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork; COMTA = Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation
   • Please note that on-line instruction is not acceptable towards meeting the 500 classroom hours
   • Recent graduates of an approved massage therapy educational programs are eligible for a temporary permit. Please note that a temporary permit is not available to licensees applying from other states or for applicants applying for reinstatement of a lapsed Connecticut license;
2. Passage of the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) administered by the FSMTB (Federation of State Massage Therapy Board)s OR the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork formerly administered by the NCTMB.
   1. Please note that the National Examination for State Licensing (NESL) examination formerly administered by the NCTMB examination does not satisfy the examination requirement.
3. Documentation Requirements: Applicants must arrange for the following to be submitted directly to office:
   
   • A completed, notarized application with photograph and fee of $375.00. The fee must be in the form of a bank check or money order made payable to “Treasurer, State of Connecticut”;
   • A separate bank check or money order in the amount of $4.75 made payable to, “Treasurer, State of Connecticut”. This payment covers the Department’s cost for querying the National Practitioner Data Bank;
   • Verification form sent directly from the educational institution documenting completion of a massage therapy course of study;
   • Verification of successful completion of the MBLEx examination or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork Examination (NCBTMB);
   • If applicable, a verification form sent directly from each state licensing authority where a license, registration or certification is or has ever been held. Some states may charge a fee for this service. For fee information, please contact the issuing authority prior to submitting your request.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Connecticut, Visit: http://www.ct.gov/dph/cwp/view.asp?a=3121&q=389348

Connecticut Department of Public Health
Massage Therapist Licensure
410 Capitol Ave., MS # 12 APP
P.O. Box 340308
Hartford, CT 06134
Phone: (860) 509-7603
Fax: (860) 707-1982

( How to become a masseuse in Delaware: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Delaware

In the state of Delaware, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the State of Delaware Division of Professional Regulation Board of Massage and Bodywork. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the State of Delaware Division of Professional Regulation Board of Massage and Bodywork.

There are 2 kinds of Massage Therapy Certifications in Delaware, thus, 2 kinds of requirements depending on what you are aiming for.

Requirements on How to become a Massage Technician in Delaware:

A. Massage Technician Certification

Initial Applications (Massage Technician):

• You are filing an “initial application” if you are:
  • not licensed by any other jurisdiction, or
  • licensed by another jurisdiction but you have not practiced continuously in that jurisdiction for at least two years before applying in Delaware.
  • Arrange for the Board office to receive an official transcript sent directly from your massage school or approved program to the Board office.
  • The transcript must show that you have completed 300 hours of supervised in-class study as a student in a school of massage/bodywork, or as a student in an approved program of massage or bodywork therapy.
  • The school or program of training must include a curriculum of no less than:
    • 60 hours of anatomy and physiology
    • 140 hours of technique and theory of massage or bodywork therapy
    • 75 hours of elective courses in the field of massage therapy
    • 25 hours of ethics, law and contraindications.
  • Plus all other requirements for the certification listed below:

All Other Requirements for Delaware Massage Technician Certification:

• You must be at least 18 years old before applying for Delaware Certified Massage Technician.
  • If you previously applied for a Delaware Certified Massage Technician, it is not necessary to re-submit documents already in possession of the Board office. If you believe that the Board office has any of the documentation listed below, contact the office to confirm.
• Submit completed, signed and notarized Application for Massage Technican Certification form. Follow the instructions on the application carefully so that all needed questions are completed. This includes verification under oath that you have not engaged in any acts or offenses that would be grounds for disciplinary action (24 Del. C., § 5309 (a)(3)).
• Enclose the non-refundable processing fee by check or money order made payable to “State of Delaware.”
• Complete the Criminal History Record Check form to request State of Delaware and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal background checks. Follow the instructions on the authorization form to arrange to be fingerprinted.
• Enclose a copy of your current CPR certification card (front and back). Online CPR courses are NOT accepted.
• If you are now (or have ever been) certified or licensed to practice massage by another jurisdiction (state, U.S. territory or District of Columbia), arrange for the Board office to receive verification of licensure or certification directly from each jurisdiction in which you are now, or have ever been, licensed or certified.
  • This requirement applies regardless of whether you are filing an initial application or by reciprocity.
  • To request verification, contact the licensing office for each jurisdiction where you have ever been licensed/certified and request a verification letter, which is also called a letter of good standing, to be sent directly to the Delaware Board office. Contact information for other state Boards is listed on the American Massage Therapy Association website. For jurisdictions other than states (such as city, county or Canadian province), request the verification from the agency or organization that issued the certificate or license.
  • Copies of licenses are not acceptable.
• If you have never been issued a U.S. SSN, submit a Request for Exemption from Social Security Number Requirement.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist, visit: http://dpr.delaware.gov/boards/massagebodyworks/massage_technician/

How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Delaware:

Initial Applications (Massage Therapist):

• You are filing an “initial application” if you are:
  • not licensed by any other jurisdiction, or
  • licensed by another jurisdiction but you have not practiced continuously in that jurisdiction for at least two years before applying in Delaware.
  • Arrange for the Board office to receive an official transcript sent directly from your massage school or approved program to the Board office.
  • The transcript must show that you have completed 500 hours of supervised in-class study as a student in a school of massage/bodywork, or as a student in an approved program of massage or bodywork therapy. (A transcript received from you, rather than directly from your school or program, is considered unofficial. If you submit an unofficial copy of the transcript, the Board office will not issue a license until it receives the official transcript from the school or program.)
  • The school or program of training must include a curriculum of no less than:
    • 100 hours of anatomy and physiology
    • 300 hours of technique and theory of massage or bodywork therapy
    • 75 hours of elective courses in the field of massage therapy
    • 25 hours of ethics, law and contraindications.
  • Plus all other requirements for the certification listed below:

All Other Requirements for Delaware Massage Therapy Licensing:

• You must be at least 18 years old before applying for a Delaware Massage Therapy License.
• Submit completed, signed and notarized Application for Massage Therapist Licensure form. Follow the instructions on the application carefully so that all needed questions are completed. This includes verification under oath that you have not engaged in any acts or offenses that would be grounds for disciplinary action (24 Del. C., § 5308 (a)(4)).
• Enclose the non-refundable processing fee by check or money order made payable to “State of Delaware.” If you hold an active Delaware Massage Technician certification, submit the upgrade processing fee. However, if you have never held an active Delaware Massage Technician certification or if your certification is not active, submit the Massage Therapist processing fee.
• Complete the Criminal History Record Check form to request State of Delaware and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal background checks. Follow the instructions on the authorization form to arrange to be fingerprinted.
• Arrange for an official score report to be sent directly from either the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) to the Board office.
  • A score report received from you, rather than directly from FSMTB or NCBTMB, is unofficial. If you submit an unofficial copy of the score report, the Board office will not issue a license it receives the official score report from FSMTB or NCBTMB.
  • To request NCBTMB exam scores, login to your Career Management System profile on www.ncbtmb.org. The Score Report Request form is available on your profile.For information on FSMTB’s MBLEx exam, see www.fsmtb.org.
• Enclose a copy of your current CPR certification card (front and back). Online CPR courses are NOT accepted.
• If you are now (or have ever been) certified or licensed to practice massage by another jurisdiction (state, U.S. territory or District of Columbia), arrange for the Board office to receive verification of your license or certification directly from each jurisdiction in which you are now, or have ever been, licensed or certified.
  • This requirement applies regardless of whether you are filing an initial application or by reciprocity.
  • To request verification of certification or licensure, contact the licensing office for each jurisdiction where you have ever been licensed/certified and request a verification letter, which is also called a letter of good standing, to be sent directly to the Delaware Board office. Contact information for other state Boards is listed on the American Massage Therapy Association website. For jurisdictions other than states (such as city, county or Canadian province), request the verification from the agency or organization that issued the certificate or license.
  • Copies of licenses are not acceptable.
• If you have never been issued a U.S. SSN, submit a Request for Exemption from Social Security Number Requirement.

For more information, visit: http://dpr.delaware.gov/boards/massagebodyworks/massage_therapist/

Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork
Cannon Building, #203
861 Silver Lake Blvd
Dover, DE 19904
Ph: (302) 744-4500
Fax: (302) 739-2711
E-mail: customerservice.dpr@state.de.us

( How to become a masseuse in DC: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

DC (District of Columbia)

The Board of Massage Therapy in DC regulates the practice of massage therapy, including licensing massage therapists. The Board advises the Mayor, evaluates applicants’ qualifications, and recommends standards and procedures. The Board also issues licenses, receives and reviews complaints, requests investigations, conducts hearings, and issues an annual report. Members must file personal financial disclosure statements. The Board consists of five members appointed by the Mayor: four massage therapists licensed in the District and one consumer member. Licenses expire on January 31 of odd years.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in DC:

THE APPLICATION PROCESS
Upon submission of the required application documents, the DC Board of Massage Therapy will review your application. The Board of Massage Therapy normally meets on the 3 Thursday of each month. You should be scheduled to take the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork or another examination certified by the National Commission of Certifying Agencies and approved at the discretion of the Board or have successfully completed the examination at the time of your application. Upon final Board approval you will be issued a license to practice in the District of Columbia.

If you submit an application that is incomplete or otherwise deficient, our processing staff will notify you of the deficiencies. If the Board has questions or concerns, you will also be notified.

WHERE TO FILE: All documents should be sent to the following address:
DC Board of Massage Therapy
P.O. Box 37802
Washington, DC 20013
If you have any questions, call HPLA’s Customer Service line at 1-877-672-2174 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.

• EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Applicants must have graduated from an approved or accredited educational institution (pursuant to Chapter 75, section 7502.1 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations) with a minimum of 500 hours of in-class training programs.
  • A minimum of 100 of these hours shall consist of Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology.
  • The remaining 400 hours must include a majority of hours in massage therapy theory and practice, as well as discretionary related course work, including, but not limited to professional ethics, business practices, health and hygiene, contraindications of massage, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and first aid.
• FILING DEADLINES AND EXAMINATIONS
  • National Examination: All applicants must have taken and received a passing score on the National Certification Examination forTherapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Inc. (NCETMB) OR another examination certified by the National Commission of Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and approved at the discretion of the Board. The Board shall only consider examination results after the applicant has passed all parts of the examination.
  • Applicants must arrange for the testing service to forward scores directly to The Board of Massage Therapy.
  • Please contact the NCETMB for information pertaining to qualifications for the NCETMB examination, dates, location and fees. They can be reached at: National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Inc. 8201 Greensboro Drive, Suite 300 McLean, VA 22102 Telephone: 1 (800) 296-0664
• Pending license applications will become invalid after 90 days if the application has not been completed due to failure to submit required materials. Should the applicant wish to pursue licensure after that time, she/he must submit a new application and pay the required fee once again.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL APPLICANTS:

• Applicant must be at least 18 years of age; and
• Applicant must not have been convicted of a crime or moral turpitude which bears directly on the applicant’s fitness to be licensed; and
• All applicants must submit the following in order to be considered for licensure:
  • A complete and signed application, including required supporting documents;
  • two (2) identical, recent passport-size photographs (2×2 inches in size) on a plain background, which are front-view and fade-proof. The photos must be original photos and cannot be computer-generated copies or paper copies.
  • You will also need to submit one (1) clear photocopy of a government issued photo ID, such as your valid driver’s license, as proof of identity.
  • Official certified transcript(s) mailed directly from each U.S. education institution showing proof of successful completion of a program in the practice of massage therapy at an approved or accredited institution with a minimum 500 hour in-class training program.
  • Score Report reflecting passing exam results from NCETMB examination.
  • Verification of Licensure (if you were ever licensed in another jurisdiction).

REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS EDUCATED IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES:
1. Meets all requirements of the Chapter except for Section 7502.1; and
2. Demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Board that the applicant’ss education and training are substantially equivalent to the requirements of the Subtitle and Act in ensuring that the applicant is qualified to practice massage therapy by arranging for an evaluation of the applicant’s education and practical training. An applicant shall have successfully completed a training program that meets the standards for accreditation of massage therapy programs equivalent to those set forth in Section 7502.1;

If a document required by this Subtitle is in a language other than English, an applicant shall arrange for its translation in to English by a translation service acceptable to the Board and shall submit a translation signed by the translator attesting to its accuracy.

The 2 methods for becoming licensed in the District of Columbia are (1)Examination and (2) Endorsement.

Examination (E) – Successful completion of the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork or other examination approved by the Board.

Endorsement (N) – Hold a license in good standing in another state or territory of the United States with standards which are comparable to DC’s requirements and successful completion of the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork or other examination approved by the Board.

For More Information Visit:

Checklists for Licensing for both (1)Examination & (2)Endorsement : https://doh.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/publication/attachments/MT_CHECKLIST_5302017%20%281%29%20word.pdf

Instructions: https://doh.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/publication/attachments/Massage_Therapy_Application_Instructions_Updated%203-3-2015.pdf

New License Application https://doh.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/publication/attachments/Massage_Therapy_New_License_Application_-_PDF_Version-%20Updated%203-3-2015%20-%20UPDATED.pdf

( How to become a masseuse in Florida: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Florida

In the state of Florida, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Florida Board of Massage Therapy. The Florida Board of Massage Therapy was legislatively established to ensure that every Massage Therapist practicing in this state and every Massage Establishment meet minimum requirements for safe practice. The Florida Board of Massage Therapy is responsible for the licensure, monitoring and education of Massage Therapy professionals to assure competency and safety to practice in their service to the people of Florida.

The 2 methods for becoming licensed in the Florida are (1) By Examination and (2) By Endorsement.

(1) By Examination: LMT Licensing in Florida:

For Licensure as a Massage Therapist by Examination, the requirements are as follows and can be found in Section 480.041, F.S. and Rule Chapter 64B7-25, F.A.C.

• Is at least 18 years of age or has received a high school diploma or graduate equivalency diploma (GED).
• Must submit application and fees.
• Education Requirements:
  • In Florida: Has completed a minimum 500 clock hour course of study at a board-approved massage school or has completed an apprenticeship in the State of Florida.
  • In another state: If the school you attended is located in another state, the school must be approved by the Department of Education or an equivalent licensing agency in the state in which it is located. Official transcripts must show completion of a course of study including a minimum of 500 clock hours.
  • Outside the United States: If the school you attended is located outside of the United States, the school must be approved by the Department of Education or an equivalent licensing authority in the country in which it is located. Transcripts and supplemental education documents should be translated into English by a translation service or credentialing company. These education documents will be evaluated by the board at one of its regularly scheduled meetings.
• Examination Requirements: Must pass one of the following accepted examinations:
  • Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). The FSMTB can be reached at 1-866-962-3926.
  • National Certification Examination in Therapeutic Massage (NCETM) administered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB). The NCETM exam is no longer available, but will still be accepted if taken prior to its retirement on November 1, 2014.
  • National Certification Examination in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB) administered by NCBTMB. The NCBTMB exam is no longer available, but will still be accepted if taken prior to its retirement on November 1, 2014.
  • National Exam for State Licensure (NESL) administered by NCBTMB. The NESL exam option is no longer available, but will still be accepted if taken prior to its retirement on December 31, 2012.
• Completion of a ten (10) hour Florida Laws and Rules course
• Pass Criminal and Health Background Screening

(2) By Endorsement: LMT Licensing in Florida:

For Licensure as a Massage Therapist by Endorsement, the requirements are as follows and can be found in Section 480.041, F.S. and Rule Chapter 64B7-25, F.A.C.

• Is at least 18 years of age or has received a high school diploma or graduate equivalency diploma (GED).
• Must submit application and fee for licensure.
• Education Requirements:
  • Applicants must complete, at minimum, a 500 clock hour course of study at a massage school approved by the equivalent licensing agency or Department of Education in the state in which it is located.
• Licensure Verification Requirements: Official license verification from the licensing state must contain the following information:
  • Method of licensure (i.e., — examination, endorsement, reciprocity, etc.).
  • Date of licensure.
  • That license was issued based on the passage of one of the following board approved examinations:
    • National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork Examination;
    • National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage;
    • National Exam for State Licensure option administered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork;
    • The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards.
  • Any disciplinary action. If disciplinary action has been taken against your license, please request licensing state to send directly to the board office any disciplinary information (I.e., complaints, final orders, etc.)
• Mandatory Continuing Education Requirements: Completion of a ten (10) hour Florida Laws and Rules course
• Pass the Criminal and Health Background Screening

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Florida, Visit: http://floridasmassagetherapy.gov/

Florida Department of Health
Board of Massage Therapy
4052 Bald Cypress Way , Bin # C06
Tallahassee , FL 32399 – 3256
Ph: (850) 245-4161
Fax: (850) 412-2681
E-mail: MQA_MassageTherapy@doh.state.fl.us

( How to become a masseuse in Georgia: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Georgia

In the state of Georgia, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Georgia Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Georgia Board of Massage Therapy.

The Georgia Board of Massage Therapy, established by legislation in May 2005, is comprised of five members appointed by the Governor in July 2006 upon funding appropriation. Massage is therapeutic and regulations are necessary to protect the public from unqualified practitioners. It is in the interest of the public to set standards of qualifications, education, training, and experience for those who seek to practice massage therapy; to promote high standards of professional performance for those licensed to practice massage therapy; and to protect the public from unprofessional conduct by persons licensed to practice massage therapy.

The Georgia Massage Therapy Board reviews applications, complaints, correspondence and regulates the practice of licensees throughout the state. Board meetings are open to the public and are generally held at the Office of Secretary of State, Professional Licensing Boards Division office located at 237 Coliseum Drive, Macon, Georgia.

Requirements on How to become an LMT in Georgia:

• 500 hours of Massage Therapy education from an approved school: The massage therapy education program you attend must meet the requirements of the law as well as those indicated in the Board Rules under Chapter 345-8. The program must have a minimum curriculum of five-hundred (500) total clock hours of supervised classroom and supervised hands-on instruction. “Supervised” means the supervisor is physically on-site, qualified and immediately available. Online courses whereby the instructor is not physically on-site, qualified and immediately available are not acceptable.
• The applicant for licensure as a massage therapist shall submit an application and the required non-refundable fee on a form approved by the Board, and evidence satisfactory to the Board that the applicant:
  • is at least 18 years of age; and
  • has a high school diploma, GED, or recognized equivalent; and
  • is a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident of the United States.
• In addition to the information called for on the form, the applicant must also provide or complete the following:
  • satisfactory results from a fingerprint record check report conducted by the Georgia Crime Information Center and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as determined by the Board. The applicant shall be responsible for all fees associated with the performance of such background check (see instructions on how to register and complete the fingerprint check posted @ www.sos.ga.gov/plb/massage, Application Downloads link); and
  • official verification from NCBTMB (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) or FSMTB (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards) showing applicant has passed the NCBTMB National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM) or National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCETMB), or the FSMTB Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx), or an exam deemed equivalent or equal to the NCE or FSMTB exam by the Board; and,
  • applicants educated within the United States: submit an official, certified school transcript in an original sealed envelope, by the applicant’s school or program, of successful completion (graduation) of a board-recognized massage therapy education program consisting of a minimum of five-hundred (500) hours of course and clinical work in accordance with Board rule 345-8; or,
  • applicants educated outside the United States: provide a credential evaluation report, in English, completed by a verifiable credential evaluation entity subject to the Board’s approval to include a certified copy of the school transcript translated into English that includes, but is not limited to, the following:
    • all documentation must be certified translations including the name and contact number of the person completing and approving the credential evaluation report; and,
    • the credential evaluation report shall include verification that the massage therapy educational entity providing the transcript to the applicant of the education was licensed, recognized or approved by a government, country, province or territory’s educational commission, regulatory body or other verifiable official.
    • official verification of passage of one of the following national exams: MBLEx, NCBTMB, or NCBTM.
    • the Board reserves the right to recognize and consider mitigating circumstances with regard to the provision of educational information within compliance with this rule.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Georgia, visit: http://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing/plb/33

Georgia Board of Massage Therapy
237 Coliseum Drive
Macon, GA 31217-3858
Applications/Payments:
P.O. Box 13446
Macon, GA 31208
Phone: 478.207.2440
Fax: 877-588-0446

( How to become a masseuse in Hawaii: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Hawaii

In the state of Hawaii, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Hawaii State Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Hawaii State Board of Massage Therapy Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs
Professional and Vocational Licensing.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Hawaii:

1. Meet the minimum education and training hours requirement of 570 hours;
2. Pass the State of Hawaii licensure examination; and
3. Possess current infant and adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation (“CPR”) certificate from the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Hawaii, visit:  http://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/massage/

Hawaii State Board of Massage Therapy
Dept of Commerce & Consumer Affairs
Professional and Vocational Licensing
Attn: Massage
P.O. Box 3469
Honolulu, HI 96801
Ph: (808) 586-2692

( How to become a masseuse in Idaho: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Idaho

In the state of Idaho, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Idaho Board of Massage Therapy Bureau of Occupational Licenses. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Idaho Board of Massage Therapy Bureau of Occupational Licenses.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Idaho:

1. Meet the minimum Massage Therapy education and training hours requirement of 500 hours;
2. The state may update the requirements after July 1, 2013. In the meantime, the Board is asking applicants to contact the individual city or cities you will be practicing in to verify if there are any massage license requirements.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Idaho, visit: https://ibol.idaho.gov/IBOL/BoardPage.aspx?Bureau=MAS

Idaho Board of Massage Therapy
Bureau of Occupational Licenses
Street address:
700 W. State Street
Boise, Idaho 83702
Mailing address:
PO Box 83720
Boise, Idaho 83720-0063
Phone: (208) 334-3233
Fax: (208) 334-3945

( How to become a masseuse in Illinois: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Illinois

In the state of Illinois, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation Massage Therapy Licensure. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation Massage Therapy Licensure.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Illinois:

1. Meet the minimum Massage Therapy education and training hours requirement of 500 hours from an approved school. *Note: The minimum educational hours requirement will change to 600 hours effective January 2014.
2. Applicant must be at least 18 years old and be of good moral character.
3. Fingerprints and Criminal History Check
4. Pass either the NCBTMB ( National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) exam or pass the MBLeX ( Massage Board Licensing Exam) exam (from the FSMTB —Federation of Massage Therapy Boards).

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Illinois visit: http://www.idfpr.com/profs/MassageTherapy.asp

Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation
Massage Therapy Licensure
320 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor
Springfield, IL 62786
Phone: (800) 560-6420
Fax: (217) 782-7645

(How to become a masseuse in Indiana)

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Indiana

In the state of Indiana, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Indiana State Board of Massage Therapy Professional Licensing Agency. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Indiana State Board of Massage Therapy Professional Licensing Agency.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Indiana:

1. Meet the minimum Massage Therapy education and training hours requirement of 500 hours;
2. Completed, signed and dated application form
3. Photograph, passport quality
4. Official transcripts sent directly from school
5. Credential evaluation if foreign graduate

Exam scores from the NCBTMB ( National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) OR the MBLeX ( Massage Board Licensing Exam) exam (from the FSMTB —Federation of Massage Therapy Boards) OR AMMANCE (AMMA National Certification Exam) OR NCETM (National Certification Exam for Thereapeautic Massage)

6. Proof of Insurance
7. Submit a Criminal Background Check

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Indiana, visit: http://www.in.gov/pla/massage.htm

Indiana State Board of Massage Therapy
Professional Licensing Agency
Attn: State Board of Massage Therapy
402 W Washington St, Room W072
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
Phone: (317)234-8800

( How to become a masseuse in Iowa: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Iowa

In the state of Indiana, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Regulatory board, Iowa Board of Massage Therapy Examiners, Department of Public Health. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Regulatory board, Iowa Board of Massage Therapy Examiners, Department of Public Health.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Iowa:

1. Meet the minimum Massage Therapy education and training hours requirement of 500 hours from an approved school.
2. Official transcripts sent directly from school
3. Fingerprints and Criminal History Check

CPR and First Aid certified by the American Red Cross, OR by the American Heart Association, OR by the National Safety Council.

4. Pass either the NCBTMB ( National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) exam or pass the MBLeX ( Massage Board Licensing Exam) exam (from the FSMTB —Federation of Massage Therapy Boards).

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Iowa, Visit: http://idph.iowa.gov/Licensure/Iowa-Board-of-Massage-Therapy

Iowa Board of Massage Therapy
Department of Public Health
Lucas State Office Bldg, 5th Floor
321 E. 12th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319-0075
Ph: (515) 281-6959
Fax: (515) 281-3121

( How to become a masseuse in Kansas: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Kansas

In the state of Kansas, the new massage therapy licensure bill has just been introduced in February 2013, it has not been given a hearing date yet. House Bill 2187, the Massage Therapy Licensure Act. Here are the proposed requirements in the Kansas Massage Therapy Licensure Act:

– Has completed a massage program consisting of a minimum 500 hours; or

– Has completed at least 300 hours during the 3 years prior to the date of application; or

– Has practiced massage for at least 5 years prior to the date of application; or

– Has been an active member of a national massage therapist association (such as ABMP) which provides professional liability insurance for at least a year; or

– Has passed a nationally recognized examination approved by the board.

– After two years, all NEW applicants only will have to demonstrate they have completed a massage program consisting of at least 500 hours and passed an examination approved by the board.

But As of now, The state of Kansas does not have a statewide licensing board yet. Each city has its own criteria that you must follow in order to obtain a business license for practicing Massage Therapy. If you are a Nurse, you have the option of obtaining CNE credits through the Nursing Board to practice massage.

Examples of Cities in Kansas and their Massage Therapy License requirements: ( Please be advised that this is not a complete list. Check your specific City for their exact requirements):

City of Lenexa, KS

The basic requirements for a massage therapist license in Lenexa, Kansas are:

• Completion of not less than 500 hours in specific course work as required in City Code Section 2-3A-4. Proof must be by certified transcript.
• Successful completion for certification in first aid and in cardiopulmonary resuscitation by the American Heart Association or equivalent.

City of Overland Park, Kansas

The basic requirements for a massage therapist license in Overland Park, Kansas are:

– Therapists must file a separate application with the City Clerk, pay a fee* and meet specific educational requirements:

– National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB), 1992 or later; or Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), 2007 or later.

– Certified transcript consisting of not less than 500 hours, in theory, method or practice of massage. The required curriculum must include the subjects of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, first aid and hygiene and practical instruction in massage technique.

– American Red Cross First Aid and American Heart Association CPR

City of Prairie Village, Kansas

The basic requirements for a massage therapist license in Prairie Village, Kansas are:

– Applicant must be at least 18 years old.

– Applicant must provide proof of graduation of a massage therapy program by certified transcript of 500 hours in theory, method or practice of massage OR Proof of certification by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork

– Applicant must be CPR/First Aid Certified.

– Applicant must complete 12 hours of continuing education each year.

For more information, contact The Kansas State Board of Nursing ( as of the moment, They are designated to handle Massage Therapy licensure in Kansas): http://www.ksbn.org/

( How to become a masseuse in Kentucky: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Kentucky

In the state of Kentucky, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Massage Therapy

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Kentucky:

1. Meet the minimum Massage Therapy education and training hours requirement of 600 hours from a Board approved school.
2. Is eighteen (18) years of age or older and is of good moral character
3. Has paid the application fee and other fees required by the Board;
4. Official transcripts sent directly from school
5. Fingerprints and Criminal History Check
6. CPR and First Aid certified by the American Red Cross, OR by the American Heart Association, OR by the National Safety Council.
7. Pass either the (a) The MBLEx or other exam administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards; or (b) The State of Ohio Massage Therapy Licensing Exam; or (c) The State of New York Massage Therapy Licensing Exam.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Kentucky, Visit: http://bmt.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Board of Licensure for Massage Therapy
P.O. Box 1360
Frankfort, KY 40602
Phone: (502) 564-3296, ext. 239
Fax: (502) 696-5230

( How to become a masseuse in Louisiana: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Louisiana

In the state of Louisiana, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Louisiana:

1. Completed Application form
2. Application fee of $75.00
3. Criminal Background Check
4. Official Education Transcript — Applicant must submit a certified transcript showing the completion of the educational hours required by Louisiana Law (Title 46 Part XLIV. Chapter 11 §1101 [B]). The minimum 500 in class hours shall consist of 325 hours dedicated to the study of massage therapy techniques and clinical practicum-related modalities, 125 hours dedicated to the study of anatomy and physiology, and 50 hours of discretionary related course work, including but not limited to hydrotherapy, business practices and professional ethics, health and hygiene, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid.
5. Results of National Exam ( Oral and Written) —Pass either the NCBTMB ( National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) exam OR the MBLeX ( Massage Board Licensing Exam) exam (from the FSMTB —Federation of Massage Therapy Boards) OR NCCAOM ( National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine).
6. Current Photo — Enclose one (1) 2” x 2” photo

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Louisiana, visit: https://www.labmt.org/site.php

Louisiana Board of Massage Therapy
2645 O’Neal Lane, Bld. C, Ste. E
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Phone: (225) 756-3488
Fax: (225) 756-3493

( How to become a masseuse in Maine: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Maine

In the state of Maine, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Maine Massage Therapy Regulatory Board. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Maine:

1. Meet the minimum Massage Therapy education and training hours requirement of 500 hours from a Board approved school.
2. A completed and signed Application for Licensure
3. Official transcript from a Department approved Massage Therapy school; or Official transcript from an unapproved school and completed Core Curriculum Form
4. Proof of completion of high school or its equivalent (copy of diploma, GED or transcript
5. State Police Criminal Background Check
6. Proof of CPR and First Aid certification ( online courses not accepted)
7. Official score report issued directly from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork which documents passage of the examination; or Official score report issued directly from the Federation of State Massage Therapy Board (MBLEx) which documents passage of the examination.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Maine, Visit: http://www.maine.gov/pfr/professionallicensing/professions/massage/index.html

Maine Massage Therapy
Department of Professional and Financial Regulation,
Office of Licensing & Registration
35 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Ph: (207) 624-8603
Fax: (207) 624-8637

( How to become a masseuse in Maryland: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Maryland

In the state of Maryland, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Maryland State Board of Massage Therapy Examiners. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Maryland State Board of Massage Therapy Examiners.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Maryland:

1. A completed application includes all applicable fees, photos and documentation including;
2. Provide proof of completion of sixty (60) credit hours of college course work AND 500 hours of massage therapy education at an approved or accredited school; Transcripts are accepted from massage therapy schools that are accredited or approved by an accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE). (Visit the MTP website to see the list of approved schools and recognized accrediting agencies.)
3. pass the Maryland massage therapy jurisprudence examination. Registered Massage Practitioners may practice in a business setting such as private businesses, health clubs and spas. Registered Massage Practitioners may not practice in any health care setting (including, but not limited to, hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, doctors’ offices).
4. Examination results for any National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork exam (NCBTMB) OR then National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine — Asian Bodywork Therapy exam. ( NCCAOM)

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Maryland, Visit: https://health.maryland.gov/massage/Pages/home.aspx

Maryland State Board of Massage Therapy Examiners
4201 Patterson Ave, 3rd floor
Baltimore, MD 21215-2299
Ph: (410) 764-4738
Fax: (410) 358-1879

( How to become a masseuse in Massachusetts: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Massachusetts

In the state of Massachusetts, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Division of Professional Licensure Massachusetts Board of Registration of Massage Therapy . You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Division of Professional Licensure Massachusetts Board of Registration of Massage Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Massachusetts:

1. Meet the minimum Massage Therapy education and training hours requirement of 650 hours from a Board approved school.
2. Official and sealed Transcript from your Massage Therapy program
3. Must be 18 years old and a high school graduate
4. 2 Signed letters of reference
5. Massage Therapy insurance liability and policy coverage
6. A completed, signed and notarized Application for Licensure and fee

For more information on How to become an LMT in Massachusetts, Visit: http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/licensee/dpl-boards/mt/

Division of Professional Licensure
Massachusetts Board of Registration of Massage Therapy
1000 Washington St, Suite 710
Boston, MA 02118-6100
Ph: (617) 727-3074
Fax: (617) 727-1944

( How to become a masseuse in Michigan: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Michigan

In the state of Michigan, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Michigan Board of Massage Therapy Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Michigan Board of Massage Therapy Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Michigan:

1. Complete the application and return it to the Board of Massage Therapy with the appropriate fee. A check or money order drawn on a U.S. financial institution and made payable to the STATE OF MICHIGAN must accompany the application. An application accompanied by the appropriate fee is valid for two years.
2. At least 500 hours of Supervised Curriculum in Massage Therapy that has been approved by the Michigan Board. A list of the approved massage therapy supervised curriculums is on the website of the Michigan Board of Massage Therapy which can be accessed via the website for the Health Professions Division at www.michigan.gov/healthlicense.
3. Fingerprints and undergo a criminal background check.
4. Exam Scores: You must arrange to have passing exam scores from either the MBLEx, NCETM, or NCETMB.
5. High school graduation or GED
6. If you completed a massage therapy curriculum outside of the United States, you must have your education reviewed and certified for equivalency by a credentialing agency that is accredited by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The list of accredited NACES credentialing agencies can be found on their website, www.naces.org, under “Current Members”. The review must be a course-by-course evaluation that determines whether the massage therapy curriculum you completed was equivalent to an approved program in Michigan

For more information on How to become an LMT In the state of Michigan, Visit: http://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-72600_72603_27529_53660—,00.html

Michigan Board of Massage Therapy
Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
PO Box 30670
Lansing, MI 48909
Ph: (517) 335-0918
Fax: (517) 373-2179

( How to become a masseuse in Minnesota: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Minnesota

In the state of Minnesota, People practicing Massage Therapy is overseen by the Office of Unlicensed Complementary and Alternative Health Care Practice.

Minnesota currently does not have a statewide agency or board to govern the licensing of Massage Therapists. But, each Minnesota city or county have their own requirements for conducting business as a Massage Therapist. It is advisable to check with the city and county you wish to practice in. Some Minnesota cities and counties require at least 500 hours of Massage Therapy education, some require passing a Massage Therapy written or practical exam.

Please contact the municipality or city in Minnesota that you wish to work in for an updated information. If you are serious about becoming an LMT,  you could go to a nearby regulated state to study and get licensed, that way, when the regulation happens in Minnesota, you would be ahead.

Here’s a 2016 Star Tribune article about Massage Therapy Licensing in Minnesota http://www.startribune.com/in-minnesota-standards-for-massage-therapy-and-other-body-work-are-overdue/377878191/

( How to become a masseuse in Mississippi: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Mississippi

In the state of Mississippi, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Mississippi:

1. Meet the minimum Massage Therapy education and training hours requirement of 700 hours from a Board approved school.
2. Complete the Application of Professional Licensure form and submit fees
3. Pass a recognized Massage Therapy Board Exam: NCETMB (National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork)
   OR MBLEx (Federation of State Massage Therapy Board) OR National Exam for State Licensing OR the ABTE ( Asian Bodywork Therapy Examination) administered by the NCCAOM
4. pass the Mississippi State Law Examination ( MSLE) given by the Mississippi State Board or its representative
5. CPR and First Aid certifications

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Mississippi, Visit: http://www.msbmt.ms.gov/SitePages/Home.aspx

Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy
P.O. Box 20
Morton, MS 39117
Ph: (601) 732-6038
Ph: (601) 732-1803

( How to become a masseuse in Missouri: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Missouri

In the state of Missouri, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Missouri State Board of Therapeutic Massage Division of Professional Registration. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Missouri State Board of Therapeutic Massage Division of Professional Registration.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Missouri:

1. Meet the minimum Massage Therapy education and training hours requirement of 500 hours from a Board approved school.
2. Complete the Application of Professional Licensure form and submit fees
3. Pass a recognized Massage Therapy Board Exam: NCETMB/NCETM (National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork) OR NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine)
   AMMANCE or MBLEx (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards)
4. Criminal Background Check

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Missouri, Visit: http://pr.mo.gov/massage.asp

Missouri State Board of Therapeutic Massage
Division of Professional Registration
3605 Missouri Blvd.
P.O. Box 1335
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Ph: (573) 522-6277
Fax: (573) 751-0735
E-mail: massagether@pr.mo.gov

( How to become a masseuse in Montana: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Montana

In the state of Montana, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Montana Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Montana Board of Massage Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Montana:

1. Successful completion of an approved Massage Therapy program with a minimum of 500 hours of study that meets or exceeds the curriculum guidelines established by any program or organization accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies or its equivalent OR successor and receive a passing score on an examination prescribed by the board; OR possess an equivalent current license, certification, or registration in good standing from another state.
2. Pass either the MBLEx (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards) or
   NCETMB/NCETM (National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork)
3. An application on a form provided by the department;
4. A fee set by the board;
5. Proof of possession of a high school diploma or its equivalent;
6. Two letters attesting to the good moral character of the applicant.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Montana, Visit: http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/lmt

Montana Board of Massage Therapy
PO BOX 200513
301 South Park, 4th Floor
Helena, MT 59620-0513
Ph: (406) 841-2370
Fax: (406) 841-2305

( How to become a masseuse in Nebraska: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Nebraska

In the state of Nebraska, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Nebraska Massage Therapy Board. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Nebraska Massage Therapy Board, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – Licensure Unit.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Nebraska:

1. Pass any of the following Massage Therapy Exams: The National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB), OR National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM) OR Advanced Certification Examination (ACE) developed by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB); OR The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) developed by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB).
2. 1000 Hours of Massage Therapy Training

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Nebraska, Visit: http://dhhs.ne.gov/publichealth/pages/crlMTHome.aspx

Nebraska Massage Therapy Board
Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – Licensure Unit
P.O. Box 94986
Lincoln, NE 68509-4986
Ph: (402) 471-2117
Fax: (402) 471-3577

( How to become a masseuse in Nevada: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Nevada

In the state of Nevada, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Nevada State Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Nevada State Board of Massage Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Nevada:

1. Completed a Massage Therapy Program with a minimum of 500 hours of education. Transcripts and Certificate of Completion sent directly to Nevada State Board of Massage Therapy
2. Pass a written exam that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), or its successor. This is also known as the National Exam, NCETMB, NCETM or the NESL. Nevada State Board of Massage Therapists also accepts the MBLEx. Include a copy of the certificate or the letter stating you passed the exam.
3. Submit an Application Request Form which can be found under the FORMS tab on our main webpage to Nevada State Board of Massage Therapy.

4. Criminal Background check.
5. 1 passport quality photo. (must be in color and on photo paper and 2X2 in size)
6. A legible copy of a current state issued I.D. (i.e. driver’s license), or alien resident card if applicable, with appropriate documentation and a copy of your Social Security Card.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Nevada, Visit: http://massagetherapy.nv.gov/

Nevada State Board of Massage Therapy
1755 E. Plumb Lane, Suite 252 | Reno, NV 89502
Phone: 775-687-9955 | Fax: 775-786-4264

( How to become a masseuse in New Hampshire: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

New Hampshire

In the state of New Hampshire, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the New Hampshire Office of Program Support, Licensing & Certification Services Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with them.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of New Hampshire:

1. Submit a Massage Therapy license application and pay the required license fee;
2. Graduate from a massage therapy school with a 750 hour curriculum that meets the educational requirements of NH Administrative Rules;
3. Maintain current certification from the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork; or Any other nationally recognized certifying examination as defined by He-P 901.01(r)
4. Maintain current Adult CPR and First Aid certifications.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of New Hampshire, Visit: http://www.oplc.nh.gov/massage-therapy/index.htm

New Hampshire Office of Program Support, Licensing & Certification Services
Board of Massage Therapy
129 Pleasant Avenue
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-3608
(603) 271-3950 (fax)

( How to become a masseuse in New Jersey: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

New Jersey

In the state of New Jersey, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of New Jersey:

1. Completed a Massage Therapy Program with a minimum of 500 hours of approved Massage Therapy education and training. OR;
2. Pass any of the following national Massage Therapy Exams:

– NCETMB (National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork) or;
– NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine)
– Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards MBLeX

For more information on How to become an LMT In the state of New Jersey, Visit: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/mbt/

New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
124 Halsey Street
Newark, NJ 07102
Phone: (973) 504-6520
Fax: (973) 648-3481

( How to become a masseuse in New Mexico: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

New Mexico

In the state of New Mexico, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the New Mexico Massage Therapy Board. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the New Mexico Massage Therapy Board.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of New Mexico:

1. Completed a Massage Therapy Program with a minimum of 650 hours of approved Massage Therapy education and training.
2. Successfully pass the board’s jurisprudence examination
3. Successfully pass one of the following: National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB), or the National Examination for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM), or the (MBLEx) Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards:

For more information on How to become an LMT in the state of New Mexico, Visit: http://www.rld.state.nm.us/boards/Massage_Therapy.aspx

New Mexico Massage Therapy Board
2550 Cerrillos Road
Santa Fe, NM 87505
Ph: (505) 476-4870
Fax: (505) 476-4645

( How to become a masseuse in New York: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

New York

In the state of New York, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the New York State Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the New York State Board of Massage Therapy, Office of the Professions Division of Professional Licensing Services.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of New York:

1. Pass the New York State Massage Therapy Examination
2. Graduate from a school or institute of massage therapy with a program registered by the New York State Education Department* with a total of not less than 1000 hours in specific subjects satisfactory to the Department.
3. First Aid and CPR
4. 150 hours of practice on a person.
5. Complete high school or its equivalent
6. be of good moral character;
7. be at least 18 years of age;

For more information on How to become an LMT n the state of New York, Visit: http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/mt/

New York State Board of Massage Therapy
Office of the Professions
Division of Professional Licensing Services
89 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12234-1000
Ph: (518) 474-3817 ext. 150
Fax: (518) 486-2981

( How to become a masseuse in North Carolina: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

North Carolina

In the state of North Carolina, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of North Carolina:

1. successfully completed a course of study in the field of massage and bodywork therapy consisting of a minimum of 500 in-class hours of supervised instruction at a Board-approved school
2. Pass any of the following National Massage Therapy Exams:

• The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx)
• The National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCETMB)
• The National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM)
• NESL options for the NCETMB and NCETM
• The Asian Bodywork Therapy Examination (ABTE) offered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)

3. Complete the Application Form and submit it with all required documentation;
4. Enclose one original passport-size photo of yourself; and
5. Enclose the $150.00 Licensure Fee in the form of a certified check or money order.
6. Enclose the $40.00 SBI Criminal History Report fee.
7. Executed fingerprint card.
8. Signed and dated consent form.
9. Other documents and information as requested.

For more information on How to become an LMT in the state of North Carolina, Visit: http://www.bmbt.org/

North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
P.O. Box 2539
Raleigh, NC 27602
Ph: (919) 546-0050
Fax: (919) 833-1059

( How to become a masseuse in North Dakota )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

North Dakota

In the state of North Dakota, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the North Dakota State Board of Massage. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the North Dakota State Board of Massage.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of North Dakota:

1. An Original Affidavit from an Accredited School of Massage verifying at least 750 hours of Massage Therapy supervised instruction
2. A Copy of the applicant’s High School Diploma, Transcript or proof of equivalent education
3. An original Certificate of Physical Exam, written in the last year, that the applicant is free of contagious diseases or that the applicant has been trained in taking sufficient precautions to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
4. Application Fee of $150.00 Payment made to ND State Board of Massage. Do not send cash.
5. An Original Affidavit of Compliance by Applicant
6. A copy of your current CPR Certificate
7. A recent “passport type” photograph
8. A photocopy of confirmation of a passing score for the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCETMB) or (MBLEX) Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination.

For more information on How to become an LMT in the state of North Dakota, Visit: https://www.ndbmt.org/

North Dakota State Board of Massage
Po Box 98
Mandan, ND 58554
Ph: (701)-667-9378

( How to become a masseuse in Ohio: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Ohio

In the state of Ohio, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Ohio State Medical Board Massage Licensing Division. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Ohio State Medical Board Massage Licensing Division.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Ohio:

1. At least 750 hours of Massage Therapy supervised instruction (not less than 9 months in length) from an approved Massage Therapy School.
2. Pass the The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx)

For more information on How to become an LMT in the state of Ohio, Visit: http://med.ohio.gov/Home.aspx

Ohio State Medical Board
Massage Licensing Division
77 South High St., 17th floor
Columbus, OH 43266-0315
Ph: (614) 466-3934
Fax: (614) 728-5946

( How to become a masseuse in Oklahoma: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Oklahoma

In the state of Oklahoma, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering.

As of May 1, 2017, the following is required to apply for a Massage Therapy License:

• A complete application form
• Citizenship affidavit of I-94 affidavit
• Copy of birth certificate, driver’s license or other government -issued identification that the person is at least eighteen (18) years of age.
• Copy of current liability insurance for practice as a massage therapist (copy of current professional liability policy is acceptable).
• Copy of a certificate and transcript of completion from a state licensed massage school showing completion of at least 500 hours of formal education in a massage therapy school.Certified copy of test scores showing completion and passing the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
• Current criminal history information report obtained from the Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation. A criminal history background information report shall be current if dated no more than thirty (30) days prior to the date on which the applicant submits a completed application to the Board. The OSBI criminal history background report shall include a search of the Department of Corrections Name, Sex Offender Database and Violent Offender Database. All fees required for the criminal history background report shall be paid by the applicant.

For more information on How to become an LMT in the state of Oklahoma, Visit: https://www.ok.gov/cosmo/Massage_Therapy/index.html

Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering
2401 NW 23rd St. #84
Oklahoma City, OK 73107

( How to become a masseuse in Oregon: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Oregon

In the state of Oregon, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Oregon Board of Massage. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Oregon Board of Massage.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Oregon:

1. Minimum of 500 hours of Massage Therapy training and education. The 500 hours must be comprised of 200 hours of health sciences consisting of Anatomy & Physiology, Pathology and Kinesiology; and 300 hours of Massage Theory and Practical Application, Clinical Practice, Business Development, Communication, Ethics, and Sanitationpass the current
2. pass the Oregon state Massage Practical Exam, and
3. pass a Board Approved Massage Written Exam. Any of the following

• MBLEx (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards)
• NCETMB/NCETM (National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork)

For more information on on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Oregon, Visit: http://www.oregon.gov/OBMT/pages/index.aspx

Oregon Board of Massage
728 Hawthorne Ave., N.E.
Salem, OR 97301
Ph: (503) 365-8657
Fax: (503) 385-4465

( How to become a masseuse in Pennsylvania: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Pennsylvania

In the state of Pennsylvania, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Pennsylvania State Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Pennsylvania State Board of Massage Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Pennsylvania:

• 600 hours of Massage Therapy Training from a board approved massage therapy school.
• Pass any of the following Massage Therapy Examinations:

– NCETMB (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork)
– NCETM (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork)
– NESL (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork)
– MBLEx (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards)

• First Aid and CPR from any of the following institutions

– American Red Cross
– American Heart Association
– American Safety and Health Institute
– EMS Safety
– National Safety Council

* Online CPR is not acceptable for licensure

• A completed and signed application form, the application fee
• A copy of a legal form of identification, such as a valid driver’s license, a current passport, or a valid State identification card.
• An official Criminal History Record Information check from the State Police or other state agency for every state in which the candidate has resided during the past 5 years. The reports must be dated within 6 months of the date of application.
• Proof of graduation from high school or the equivalent.
• Official Transcript showing successful completion of a massage therapy program in the subject matter and hours required by the act and this chapter. The transcript of records should be sent directly to the Board by the applicant’s massage therapy school.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Pennsylvania, Visit: http://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/MassageTherapy/Pages/default.aspx#.VRwkAvnF_To

Pennsylvania State Board of Massage Therapy
P.O. Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
Ph: (717) 783-7155
Fax: (717) 787-7769

( How to become a masseuse in Rhode Island: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Rhode Island

In the state of Rhode Island, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Rhode Island Department of Health, Office of Health Professional Regulation. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Rhode Island Department of Health, Office of Health Professional Regulation.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Rhode Island:

1. 500 hours of Massage Therapy Training from a board approved massage therapy school.
2. Recent passport type photograph.
3. Birth certificate (original or a copy notarized as being a true copy of the original), or if born outside the United States, proof of citizenship or lawful alien status, (original or a copy notarized as being a true copy of the original).
4. Official transcript from an approved Massage Therapy program
5. Pass the NCTBTMB Massage Exam, then send Score/Certification directly from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB).
6. Three (3) letters of good moral character from responsible persons (must be originals and not more than six (6) months old.
7. Proof that you have completed a First Aid and CPR course.

Criminal Records Check sent by the State or Local Police Department to the RI Board of Massage Therapy.

For more information on How to be a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Rhode Island, Visit: http://health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=229

Rhode Island Department of Health
Office of Health Professional Regulation
3 Capitol Hill, Room 104
Providence, RI 02908-5097
Ph: (401) 222-5960
Fax: (401) 222-1272

( How to become a masseuse in South Carolina: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

South Carolina

In the state of South Carolina, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the South Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the South Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of South Carolina:

1. Applicant must be 18 years of age or older.
2. Have a High School diploma or Graduate Equivalency Diploma (GED)
3. Completed a 500-hour Massage Therapy course at an approved massage/bodywork school.
4. Passed the National Certification Examination or any National Examination for Massage/Bodyworks that is approved by the Board. (Any examination other than the NCE must have prior Board approval.)

For more information on How to be an LMT in the state of South Carolina, Visit: http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/MassageTherapy/

South Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy
Kingstree Building
110 Center View
Columbia SC 29210
Ph: (803) 896-4490
Fax: (803) 896-4484

( How to become a masseuse in South Dakota: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

South Dakota

In the state of South Dakota, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the South Dakota Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the South Dakota Board of Massage Therapy.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In South Dakota:

1. Completed application and non refundable application fees payment;

2. Copy of Birth Certificate or driver’s license;

3. Proof of Education

a. A copy of high school diploma or equivalent

b. Proof of at least 500 hours of specific training in massage therapy (completed Verification of Education Form)

4. Proof of a passing score on an accepted Massage Therapy national certification exam;

– NCETMB (National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork), NCETM, NESL, MBLEx (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards).

5. Proof of Professional Liability Insurance of at least $250,000;

For more information on How to be an LMT in South Dakota, Visit: https://doh.sd.gov/boards/massage/

South Dakota Board of Massage Therapy
PO Box #340, 105 S. Euclid Ave. Suite C
Pierre, SD 57501
Phone: 605-224-1721
Fax: 1-888-425-3032

( How to become a masseuse in Tennessee: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Tennessee

In the state of Tennessee, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Tennessee Board of Massage Licensure. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Tennessee Board of Massage Licensure.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Tennessee:

1. Certification from the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
2. Successful completion of a course of study of not less than five hundred (500) hours from a massage school approved by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission or the Tennessee Board of Regents.
3. Criminal Background Check

For more information on How to be a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Tennessee, Visit: http://tn.gov/health/topic/ML-board

Tennessee Board of Massage Licensure
665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Ph: (615) 253-2111
Fax: (615) 532-5164

( How to become a masseuse in Texas: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Texas

In the state of Texas, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Texas Department of Health Services (until November 1, 2017). You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Texas Department of Health Services, Massage Therapy Licensing Program.

In accordance with Senate Bill 202 (84th Regular Session, 2015), this licensing program is expected to transfer from DSHS to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) on November 1, 2017.

You may visit the TDLR website at: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/ and sign up to receive important email updates from TDLR on the transition.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Texas:

1. At least 500 hour Massage Therapy course , which includes the following:

– 200 hours of massage therapy techniques and theory and the practice of manipulation of soft tissue, with at least 125 hours of Swedish massage therapy techniques;

– 50 hours of anatomy; 25 hours of physiology; 50 hours of kinesiology;
40 hours of pathology; 20 hours of hydrotherapy; 45 hours of massage therapy laws and rules, business practices and professional ethics;
20 hours of health and hygiene, first aid, universal precautions, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); a 50 hour internship

2. Pass a Massage Therapy Examination administered by either: The Federation of State Massage Therapy Board or The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork at:
3. Take the Jurisprudence Exam
4. Criminal History Evaluation

For more information on How to become an LMT in the state of Texas, Visit: http://www.dshs.texas.gov/massage/

Texas Department of Health Services
Massage Therapy Licensing Program
PO Box 149347, Mail Code 1982
Austin TX 78714-9347
Ph: (512) 834-6616
Fax: (512) 834-6677

( How to become a masseuse in Utah: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Utah

In the state of Utah, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing, Board of Massage Therapy. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with them.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Utah:

1. be of good moral character;
2. be 18 years of age or older;
3. have either:

a) graduated from a school of massage having a curriculum which meets standards established by division rule made in collaboration with the board; or

b) completed a massage apprenticeship program consisting of a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised training over a minimum of 12 months and in accordance with standards established by the division by rule made in collaboration with the board; and

4. pass examinations established by rule by the division in collaboration with the board.
5. Fingerprint Criminal Background Check

For more information on How to be a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Utah, Visit: http://dopl.utah.gov/licensing/massage_therapy.html

Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing
Board of Massage Therapy
160 East 300 South
Salt Lake City, UT 84145
Ph: (801) 530-6628
Fax: (801) 530-6511

( How to become a masseuse in Vermont: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Vermont:

As of now, The state of Vermont does not have a state-wide licensing board yet. Each city and municipality has its own criteria that you must follow in order to obtain a business license for practicing Massage Therapy.

In 2015, two public hearings were held at the Office of Professional Regulation, discussing the regulation of massage therapy in Vermont. https://www.sec.state.vt.us/professional-regulation/sunrise-review/massage-therapists.aspx

See The VERMONT SECRETARY OF STATE OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL REGULATION PRELIMINARY SUNRISE ASSESSMENT: MASSAGE THERAPY (2015/16)
https://www.sec.state.vt.us/media/733234/mt-sunrise-report-opr-2016-1-5.pdf

( How to become a masseuse in Virgina: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Virginia

In the state of Utah, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Virginia Board of Nursing. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Virginia:

1. At least 500 hour Massage Therapy training and education from an approved school
2. A completed application for Certification
3. A signed & notarized application affidavit
4. $140.00 application fee in the form of a check or money order made payable to Treasurer of Virginia
5. Name Change Document if any of your supporting documentation is in a different name (Acceptable forms are marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order)
6. Official Transcript (if in a language other than English, a certified translation is required) ** official transcript must be mailed to our office directly from school
7. Exam Results

– National Certification Exam Results (NCETM or NCETMB) ** official exam results must be sent to our office directly from the NCBTMB

– Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam Results (MBLEx) ** official exam results must be sent to our office directly from the FSMTB

– A copy of your NCBTMB Certificate if you tested under the NESL option

8. Detail letter of explanation of conviction(s) ; Certified Court Order(s) **certified documents must be mailed directly to our office from court ; Proof all court ordered requirements have been met (for example: payment of fines/fees/restitutions/status of an approved payment plan, completion of community service, completion of any treatment programs, status of probation)

For more information on How to become an LMT in the state of Virginia, Visit: http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Nursing/nursing_laws_regs.htm in that page, you will be able to download the document named: Regulations Governing the Licensure of Massage Therapists – Revised 5-3-2017

Virginia Board of Nursing
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300
Richmond, Virginia 23233
Ph: 804.367.4400
FAX: 804.527.4466

( How to become a masseuse in Washington: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Washington

In the state of Washington, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Washington State Department of Health Board of Massage. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Washington State Department of Health Board of Massage.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Washington:

1. Completed Jurisprudence Exam
2. At least 500 hour Massage Therapy training and education from an approved school
3. An original school completion form stamped and signed by the registrar from an approved Washington State massage program or apprenticeship.
4. Official exam score report from the NCBTMB exam or FSMTB – Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx).
5. CPR and First Aid. Submit a photocopy, front and back, of your current Red
6. Cross First Aid card and American Heart Association CPR card (or equivalent)

showing the expiration dates. These are not needed if this information is included on your school completion form.

7. Criminal history check

For more information on How to become an LMT in the state of Washington, Visit: http://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/MassageTherapist

Washington State Department of Health Board of Massage
(application and payment):
Dept. of Health
PO Box 1099
Olympia WA 98507-1099
(additional documents)
Board of Massage
PO Box 47877
Olympia WA 98504-7877
Ph: (360) 236-4700

( How to become a masseuse in West Virginia: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

West Virginia

In the state of West Virginia, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the West Virginia Massage Therapy Licensure Board. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the West Virginia Massage Therapy Licensure Board.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of West Virginia:

1. Certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.
2. Have graduated from an approved massage education program with at least 500 hours of supervised academic instruction from an accredited school.

For more information on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of West Virginia, Visit: http://www.wvmassage.org/

West Virginia Massage Therapy Licensure Board
179 Summers Street
Suite 711
Charleston, WV 25301
Phone:304-558-1060
Fax: 304-558-1061
Toll Free in WV: 800-871-7265

( How to become a masseuse in Wisconsin: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Wisconsin

In the state of Wisconsin, Massage Therapist licensing and regulation is overseen by the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing, Massage Therapy Board. You cannot operate and advertise as a massage therapist and you cannot offer massage therapy services unless you are licensed with the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing, Massage Therapy Board.

Requirements on How to become a Licensed Massage Therapist In the state of Wisconsin:

1. At least 500 hour Massage Therapy training and education from an approved school
2. Massage Therapist Jurisprudence Exam: The Wisconsin Massage Therapy and Bodywork Therapy State Law Exam (an on-line open book examination on the Wisconsin Statutes and Administrative Codes that govern massage therapists and bodywork therapists.)
3. Completes and submits Application and payment of fee specified
4. Submit a signed copy (front and back) of current CPR/AED certificate from a DHS approved provider.
5. Is 18 years of age or older.
6. Has graduated from high school or attained high school graduation equivalency
7. Has in effect as a policy holder and insured, malpractice liability insurance coverage in an amount that is not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence
8. Has passed one of the following nationally administrated examinations:

• National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage
• National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
• Asian Bodywork Therapy Examination of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

For more information on How to be a LMT in the state of Wisconsin, Visit: http://dsps.wi.gov/Default.aspx?Page=3ebd571e-6b70-442f-b8b0-d1b35d0d758f

Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing
Massage Therapy Board
1400 E. Washington Ave.
Madison, WI 53703
Ph: (608) 266-2112
Fax: (608) 261-7083

( How to become a masseuse in Wyoming: )

How to be a Massage Therapist in:

Wyoming:

A new bill, WY S 86, has been introduced in the Wyoming State Senate which, if passed, would require that Wyoming massage therapists hold a state professional license in order to practice.

Visit: https://www.abmp.com/downloads/wy-s-86.pdf to read the bill.

If passed, the bill would create a new Wyoming state board of massage therapy which would have duties including issuing licenses, establishing rules for continuing education, adopting a professional code of ethics, and investigating and disciplining license holders for violations. Under the bill, practitioners whose practices are limited to certain modalities listed in the bill, such as Feldenkrais, Rolfing, Trager, reiki, and shiatsu, would not be required to hold a massage license.

The bill contains a grandfathering provision which would allow early applicants to qualify for a Massage Therapy license in Wyoming based on either (1) 500 hours of massage education, OR (2) 300 hours of massage education plus having practiced massage for at least 3 years, average 5 hours per week, prior to the date of application, OR (3) having practiced massage for at least 5 years, average 5 hours per week, prior to the date of application. After the grandfathering period ends, all new applicants would need to have passed a board-approved massage exam and have completed 500 hours of massage education in order to qualify for a license. ABMP is in favor of limited, reasonable state regulation of the massage profession in the interest of public safety. We do want to see a few changes in the bill and are in contact with the bill sponsor. We will keep our members apprised of developments on WY S 86 as they occur.

As of now, The state of Wyoming does not have a state-wide licensing board yet. Each city and municipality has its own criteria that you must follow in order to obtain a business license for practicing Massage Therapy. There are Massage Therapy schools in Wyoming, it is still a good idea to find the best school that will prepare you in passing National Massage Therapy Examinations.