Delaware Massage License
Updated for 2024
The massage therapy profession in Delaware is regulated by the Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork. The primary objectives of the Board are to protect the public, develop professional competency standards, and enforce the rules and regulations. Massage therapists in Delaware may either be Certified or Licensed. Licensed massage therapists (LMT) are required to complete 500 hours of massage education and training, in addition to taking a licensing exam (MBLEx). Certified massage technicians (CMT) require only 300 hours of education and training, and do not require the completion of a licensing exam.
To become a Licensed Massage Therapist or Massage Therapy Technician in Delaware, you must first complete the requirements as described on the Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork website. We have provided a summary of these requirements below for a quick reference. Learn more about MBLExGuide and how we can help you prepare for the massage exam.
Industry research from ABMP in 2016 estimated that there was about 1,143 massage therapists in Delaware. That’s 1 therapist per every 827 people in Delaware.
Delaware Quick Look
Massage License Required? Yes, license or certification
Designation: CMT / LMT
Education hours: 300 / 500
Exam: MBLEx or NCBTMB
CEUs / Renewals: 24 CEUs/2yrs
Massage Education Requirements in Delaware
Licensed Massage Therapist applicants are required to complete a minimum of 500 hours of supervised in-class instruction from an approved program. This training must have a curriculum that includes at least:
- 100 hours of anatomy and physiology
- 300 hours of technique and theory of massage or bodywork therapy
- 75 hours of elective courses in the field of massage therapy
- 25 hours of ethics, laws and contraindications
Certified Massage Technician applicants must show completion of 300 hours of supervised in-class massage study and training at an approved massage program. This program must include a minimum of:
- 60 hours of anatomy and physiology
- 140 hours of technique and theory of massage or bodywork therapy
- 75 hours of elective courses in the field of massage therapy
- 25 hours of ethic, laws and contraindications
Only official transcripts from massage schools are accepted for application purposes. This means that the transcript must be sent directly from the massage school to the Board.
Examination Requirements
The Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork has approved the following two exams:
- MBLEx (offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards)
- NCBTMB certification exam
Taking a simulated MBLEx practice test to assess your exam readiness is a great first step for those aspiring to become licensed massage therapists in Delaware. Our practice tests are tailored to provide a realistic experience of the actual MBLEx, covering key topics and question formats. This preparation helps ensure you’re well-equipped for the exam and can significantly boost your confidence.
If you have not yet taken the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and are planning to seek licensure in Delaware, simply select this state when registering for the MBLEx, and they will send your scores to the Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork when you pass. Check out our About the MBLEx page to see how to apply and schedule your exam.
Additional License Requirements
Getting a Delaware massage therapy license or massage technician certification has additional requirements. The applicant must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Complete a Criminal history Record Check form for a state and federal background check, with fingerprinting
- Verify current CPR certification (online CPR courses are not accepted)
All applicants should review and be familiar with the Delaware massage rules and regulations, as well as the massage and bodywork laws in Delaware. The Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork has set up a FAQ page on their website that provides additional information.
Application Process
Massage therapists in Delaware may either become a Certified Massage Technician (CMT), or a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT). The following is a brief summary of the two tracts:
Certified Massage Technician: start this application process by downloading the CMT application and instruction sheet. Complete the application as instructed, get it notarized and mail it along with any supplemental documentation and the required fee. There is also an option for a Temporary Massage Technician Certification.
Licensed Massage Therapist: start this application process by downloading the LMT application and instruction sheet from their website. Complete the application as instructed, get it notarized and mail it along with any supplemental documentation and the required fee.
The Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork may issue a massage license based on reciprocity. To qualify for this, the massage therapist must have a current license in good standing in another state with equivalent requirements, and have been licensed and practiced for 2 continuous years in the same state.
Massage License Fees
Here is a summary of the fees charged by the Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork. All processing fees are nonrefundable. Make check or money order payable to “State of Delaware” (do not send cash).
- Certified Massage Technician application: $134
- Licensed Massage Therapist application: $134
- Upgrade from active CMT to LMT: $55
- Temporary Massage Technician: $55
- Renewal fee: $118
Renewal Process
Delaware massage license or certification must be renewed every 2 years. All massage and bodywork licenses and certifications expire on August 31 of even-numbered years. The following must be done to complete your renewal application:
- Complete the renewal online, following instructions you will receive via email
- Verify current CPR certification
- Complete 24 hours of approved CEU credit hours
- Send renewal fee of $118
Establishment Regulations
If you are a business owner or an independent contractor operating in Delaware, you are required to obtain an establishment license from the Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork for each location you are operating. However if you are working as an employee at another business such as a medical practice or other currently licensed establishment, then this step is not needed. Also, practice owners must check with their local municipality to see if a city business license is needed.
Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork
Contact Information
Address:
State of Delaware
Board of Massage and Bodywork
Cannon Building
861 Silver Lake BLVD., Suite 203
Dover, Delaware 19904-2467
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.