Massage Therapists

Pennsylvania Licensure Requirements

Massage therapists apply a system of structured touch, pressure, movement, holding and treatment of the soft tissue manifestations of the human body in which the primary intent is to enhance the health and well-being of the client.

Degree Requirement: 

High School diploma or the Equivalent - Applicant must complete a massage therapy program of at least 600 hours of in-class postsecondary education instruction approved by the Board. 

Examination Requirement: 

1 Examination - The Board adopts the Massage and Bodywork Licensure Examination (MBLEx) as the approved examination for initial licensure.  

Experience: 

600 Hours - An applicant must have completed at least 600 hours of in-class, postsecondary education instruction approved by the board at a regionally accredited college or university, Pennsylvania private licensed school or its equivalent as determined by the board. To qualify for licensure, an applicant must have completed:

• 175 hours of anatomy/physiology/kinesiology/pathology;
• 250 hours of massage therapy including hygiene;
• 25 hours of professional ethics;- 150 hours in related courses.  

Continuing Education: 

3 Hours (for initial licensure) 

24 Hours (when renewing license)

Initial Licensing Fee: 

$100.00

Licensure Renewal Fee: 

$175.00 - Biennial renewal fee for biennial period February 1, 2023—January 31, 2025, and each biennial renewal period thereafter

Licensure by Act 41:

Act 41 allows for portability of out-of-state professional licensees coming to work in Pennsylvania. Act 41 does this by granting all boards and commissions within the Commonwealth the authority to endorse licensees from other states, territories or jurisdictions (with substantially equivalent licensing requirements) who are active, in good standing and without discipline against their license or criminal conviction.