South Carolina Massage License
Updated for 2024
Massage therapists in South Carolina are required to have a massage license prior to practicing in this state. Massage therapy licenses are issued by the South Carolina Massage & Bodywork Panel, which is under the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
To become a licensed massage therapist (LMT) in SC, applicants must first complete the requirements as described on the South Carolina Massage/Bodywork Panel website. We’ve provided a summary of these requirements below for a quick reference.
Industry research from ABMP in 2016 estimated that there was about 3,625 massage therapists in South Carolina.
South Carolina Quick Look
Massage License Required? Yes
Designation: LMT
Education hours: 500
Exam: MBLEx or NCBTMB
CEUs / Renewals: 12 CEUs/2yrs
Massage Education Requirements in South Carolina
Applicants for a South Carolina massage license are required to complete a minimum of 500 hours of in-class instruction from an approved school. The Board must receive an official transcript directly from the massage school as part of the initial license application process.
Examination Requirements
The South Carolina Massage/Bodywork Panel has approved the following exams for licensing purposes:
- Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB)
- NCETMB/NCETM credentialing exam previously offered by the NCBTMB
As part of your preparation for licensure in South Carolina, taking multiple MBLEx practice tests can be a strategic step. Engaging with these practice tests helps to solidify your knowledge and understanding of the exam material. It’s a practical way to get accustomed to the exam format and types of questions, enhancing your chances of success when you sit for the actual MBLEx.
If you have not yet taken the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and are planning to seek licensure in South Carolina, simply select this state when registering for the MBLEx, and they will send your scores to the South Carolina Massage/Bodywork Panel when you pass. Check out our About the MBLEx page to see how to apply and schedule your exam.
Additional License Requirements
Getting a South Carolina massage therapy license has additional requirements. The applicant must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Background check with fingerprinting. This must be repeated every 2 years upon each renewal.
- Verify current CPR certification
Massage License Fees
The following is a summary of the fees charged by the South Carolina Massage/Bodywork Panel:
- Application fee: $50
- Licensing fee: $100
- Renewal fee: $75
- Reinstatement fee: $210
- License verification: $5
Renewal Process
All massage therapy licenses expire on June 30, every even-numbered year. The Board will send out a Renewal notice prior to the expiration date. Simply complete this form and send it back with the renewal fee. The following must be done to complete your renewal application:
- Download and complete the renewal application
- Complete 12 CEU credit hours
- Send renewal fee of $75
South Carolina Massage/Bodywork Panel
Contact Information
Mailing Address:
South Carolina Massage/Bodywork Panel
PO Box 11329
Columbia, SC 29211-1329
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.