In the United States, in 38 states plus the District of Columbia, an individual is required to hold a valid massage therapy license to legally provide massage therapy. The minimum level of education for massage therapists trained in the United States varies from 500 to 1000 hours, and differs from state to state. To obtain a massage therapy license or certification in a given state, it is necessary to complete an educational program recognized by the state's governing body for massage therapy, and pass an exam. Exams consist of a written theory exam, and may also consist of a 'hands-on' practical exam.
The purpose of licensing and certification is to ensure public safety by requiring massage therapy practitioners to obtain a minimum educational requirement, and to uphold professional obligations as determined by their regulatory body. In some states, such as Connecticut, it may be necessary to attend an accredited massage therapy school before you even qualify to write the licensing exam. This information is very important when choosing a massage therapy college or school, so please ensure you use due diligence in your school selection process.
Massage therapy licensing and certification exams
There are 2 national massage therapy organizations through which a massage therapy graduate will go to write his or her licensing or certification exam. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage (and Bodywork) (NCBMT(B)) or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (MBLEx - Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination) both offer licensing exams to potential massage therapists. Each state will specify what exam is accepted, so it will be necessary for a therapist to verify with the state that he or she is practicing in what is required.
Alternatively, a therapist may be required by his or her state to pass qualification exams from the American Medical Massage Association NBCA Massage Therapy Certification Examination; once again, check with your state requirements.
Massage Therapy Licensing and Certification Requirements by State
