Arkansas Massage License
Updated for 2024
The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) regulates massage therapy in order to maintain standards of competency, training and practice. It also has a mission to protect the public health and welfare. Arkansas massage therapists have been required to maintain a massage license since 1951. Therapeutic massage is recognized as a health care service that is part of establishing and maintaining good physical condition and relief of pain.
To get an Arkansas massage therapy license and become a licensed massage therapist (LMT), you must first complete the requirements as described on the Arkansas Department of Health website. We’ve provided a summary of these requirements below for a quick reference. To see other helpful resources, check out our about us page.
Industry research from ABMP in 2016 estimated that there was about 1,997 massage therapists in Arkansas. That’s 1 therapist per every 1,491 people in Arkansas.
Arkansas Quick Look
Massage License Required? Yes
Designation: LMT
Education hours: 500
Exam: MBLEx or NCBTMB
CEUs / Renewals: 18 CEU hours / 2 years
Massage Education Requirements in Arkansas
Massage license applicants in Arkansas are required to complete an education program from a Department approved massage therapy school or a state approved institution. A list of massage therapy schools in Arkansas can be found on their website. The program must have a minimum of 500 hours of classroom and clinical instruction. The Department may approve an out-of-state school if it is accredited by a credible agency. Applicants must provide certified transcripts of their education and training. Approved education programs must include:
- 175 hours of anatomy, physiology, pathology, and contraindications to massage therapy
- 225 hours of technique
- 25 hours of hydrotherapy, electrotherapy, and heliotherapy
- 25 hours of hygiene and infection control
- 25 hours of massage therapy law, business management and professional ethics
- 25 hours of related subjects as approved by the department
Examination Requirements
The Arkansas Department of Health requires that massage license applicants pass a licensing or certification exam before applying for a license. The Department accepts the following two examinations:
- MBLEx (licensing exam offered by the FSMTB)
- BCETMB (certification exam offered by the NCBTMB)
As part of preparing for a career in massage therapy in Arkansas, taking MBLEx practice tests can be a crucial step in ensuring readiness for the exam. These practice tests offer a realistic preview of the exam format and questions, helping applicants to gauge their understanding and areas where more focus is needed.
If you have not yet taken the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) and are planning to apply for an Arkansas license, simply select this state when registering for the MBLEx, and they will send your scores to the Arkansas Department of Health when you pass. Check out our About the MBLEx page to see how to apply and schedule your exam.
After all application materials have been received, reviewed and approved, the Massage Section of the Arkansas Department of Health will contact you by email with instructions to complete a State Law test online.
Additional License Requirements
In addition to education and examination requirements, massage license applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be of good moral character
- Be able to present a valid photo ID, social security card, high school diploma (or equivalency)
- Show current TB test (initial application only)
- Background check with fingerprinting
Additional qualification and instructions can be downloaded along with the Arkansas massage license application. Applicants should also view details on massage therapy laws from the Arkansas Department of Health. They also provide answers on their website about Frequently Asked Questions regarding licensing, continuing education, and massage practice regulations.
Application Process
Begin the massage license application process by downloading the Arkansas massage license instructions and application form. Arkansas does not offer a reciprocity option. Once the application is completed, have it notarized and then mail it along with $180 (cashier’s check or money order) to the mailing address on the application. Make the payment to ADH – Massage Therapy Section. After your application is received and reviewed, you will receive a packet to complete your federal background check and fingerprinting.
Massage License Fees
In case you’re wondering how much a massage license costs in Arkansas, here’s a summary of the fees charged by the Arkansas Department of Health:
- Nonrefundable application fee: $75
- Original license fee: $80
- Biennial renewal fee: $80
- Examination or Re-examination fee: $25
- Pocket card fee: $10
The total amount due at application is $180 (application fee, license fee, and examination fee).
Renewal Process
Arkansas massage therapists license is good for 2 years and expires on the licensee’s birthday (every other year). Therapists can renew on the first day of the month preceding their birthday every two years. If they miss the expiration date printed on their license then the licensee must apply for a new license. Renewals can be completed online, and there is a $80 fee. The following must be done to complete your renewal application:
- Download and complete the renewal application
- Complete 18 CEU credit hours
Arkansas Department of Health
Contact Information
Arkansas Department of Health
Cosmetology and Massage Therapy Section
4815 West Markham, Slot #8
Little Rock, AR 72205
Note: The information on this website is for informational purposes. Please inquire directly with your state and local boards to verify requirements and regulations, as this may have changed. Contact information is listed above.