How to Become a Certified Massage Therapist in 3 Easy Steps
Considering a new career as a licensed massage therapist? Learning how to become a certified massage therapist is an achievement that is at the top of many people’s bucket lists, but many are often stumped when asking themselves the question: What do you need to be a massage therapist? 1,000 massage therapy programs may advertise 1,000 different answers, but becoming a licensed massage therapist is probably more simple than you think:
- Complete an accredited massage therapy program.
- Meet current massage therapy certification requirements according to the state in which you live.
- Apply for your massage therapist license!
In just three steps, you will be on your way to a rewarding career in the healthcare field as a licensed massage therapist!
#1. Complete an Accredited Massage Therapy Program
Once you’ve made the decision to learn how to be a massage therapist, the first step is to get trained. You want to be sure the massage therapy program you choose is from an accredited massage therapy school that’s approved by the state and recognized by the AMTA (American Massage Therapy Association). Some of your studies will include a variety of coursework such as body mechanics, anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, massage ethics, and more. Before enrolling, become familiar with your state’s licensing requirements to ensure that the program you choose will help you meet those requirements. If you live near a state border, you’ll need to research your bordering state’s requirements as well.
Once you complete the program, you will be awarded a massage therapy certification, which will allow you to be eligible to take the licensed massage therapist exam. Kansas City Massage Institute offers our students a high-quality education, and is a member of the AMTA. It is important to choose a program that lives up to the highest standards. At KCMI, we are thoroughly dedicated to teaching our students about the “power of touch” and improving the quality of life of our clients.
#2. Meet Massage Therapy Certification Requirements & Pass the Licensing Exam
There are varying massage therapy certification requirements by state regarding the total number of hours of hands-on experience you’ll need before obtaining your massage therapist license. This is generally achieved via working at a school’s massage clinic or through an internship. Once you’ve completed the massage therapy program and its necessary massage therapy certification requirements, you’ll need to sit for your licensed massage therapist exam.
Not all states require licensing. Currently, Wyoming, Kansas, Oklahoma, Minnesota, and Vermont do not require a massage therapist license. Some states have developed their own exam, while others require you to complete the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). The MBLEx is a two-hour, 100-question test administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). The MBLEx covers kinesiology, client assessments, the physiological effects of massage, and ethics. Visit
here to learn more about individual state requirements.
#3: Apply for a License With Your State and Begin Your Career!
The final step to beginning your successful career as a licensed massage therapist is to apply for your license within your state! If you happen to live near a bordering state, you will need to apply for a separate license within your neighboring state in order to legally work as a massage therapist across state lines. This will also require you to meet your bordering state’s licensing requirements as well. Additionally, many states require continuing education to keep your massage therapist license current, so be sure to confirm if your state does require continuing education to keep your license up-to-date.
Once you obtain your license, it’s time to get going!
Looking to Become a Certified Massage Therapist in Kansas City? Contact KCMI Today!
Ready to begin your new journey as a massage therapist? Kansas City Massage Institute holds over 50 years of combined experience. We fully understand all the ins and outs of the massage and healing industry, and we find true joy in educating the healers of tomorrow. Give us just 6 months to change your life for the better - you’ll be glad you did! If you have any questions, give KCMI a call at
816-710-0103 or text us at 252-696-4086 today!
