Professional Licensing
Current Professional Licensing Landscape
Current licensing requirements for the United States and territories are:
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45 states require licensure to practice massage therapy.
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Additionally, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands require licensure.
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California has voluntary certification.
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Vermont has registration.
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Minnesota has enacted voluntary registration, effective July 1, 2028.
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Kansas and Wyoming are the only states with no statewide regulation enacted.
National Examination Requirement
45 states/territories require the applicant to pass a national certification exam. The current industry standard is the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx). For more information on this requirement please visit:
https://fsmtb.org/mblex-process-requirements-2/
Indiana and Kentucky Licensure Requirements
Both Indiana and Kentucky require passing a national exam to obtain a professional license to practice massage therapy in their states.
All state licensure requirements can be found by visiting the respective state boards websites:
Indiana
https://www.in.gov/pla/professions/massage-therapy-home/massage-therapy-licensing-information
Kentucky
https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=50946
State Board Contact Information
Important Information
In addition to state requirements, it is important to check with your local municipality to determine the licensing, zoning, and ordinances that may apply to the profession of massage therapy. As each state has differing requirements, so do local cities and towns.