Alaska Massage License
Updated for 2024
Alaska is one of the most recent states to enact statewide regulation requiring all massage practitioners to have an Alaska massage license. Beginning in 2015, Alaska required all practicing therapists to have a current and unrestricted license.
To become a licensed massage therapist (LMT) in the state of Alaska, applicants must first complete the requirements as described on the Alaska Board of Massage Therapists website. MBLExGuide has provided a summary of these massage license requirements below for a quick reference.
Industry research from ABMP in 2016 estimated that there was about 642 massage therapists in Alaska. That’s 1 therapist per every 1,149 people in Alaska.
Alaska Quick Look
Massage License Required? Yes
Designation: LMT
Education hours: 625
Exam: MBLEx or NCBTMB
CEUs / Renewals: 16 CEUs/2yrs
Massage Education Requirements in Alaska
Applicants for a massage license in Alaska are required to complete a minimum of 625 hours of in-class instruction from an accredited school. The Board has not approved specific schools however it has approved that the following accreditation or credentialing agencies be included in the proposed regulation:
Examination Requirements
The Alaska Board of Massage Therapists has approved the following two exams:
- MBLEx (offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards)
- NCETMB/NCETM
In preparation for obtaining a massage therapy license in Alaska, taking massage exam practice tests can be an invaluable part of your study plan. These practice tests simulate the actual exam, providing insights into the types of questions and the overall structure of the MBLEx, which is crucial for ensuring you are well-prepared for the exam.
If you have not yet taken the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and are planning to seek licensure in Alaska, simply select this state when registering for the MBLEx exam, and they will send your scores to the Alaska Board of Massage Therapists when you pass. Check out our About the MBLEx page to see how to apply and schedule your exam.
Additional License Requirements
Getting a license in Alaska has additional requirements:
- Background check with fingerprinting. This must be repeated every 2 years upon each renewal.
- Verify current CPR certification
- 4 hours of education on universal precautions and blood-borne pathogens
Application Process
There are two pathways to become a licensed massage therapist in Alaska. This is by examination or by credentials.
Applying by examination: Therapists using this method must show completion of a course of study of at least 500 hours of in-class supervised instruction and clinical work from an approved school. The applicant must also complete 4 hours of safety education covering universal precautions and blood borne pathogens. Begin the application process by downloading, printing and completing the “application by examination” form available on their website.
Applying by credentials: A massage therapist may apply for a license using this method by verifying a massage license in good standing in another state that has equal or greater requirements as those in Alaska. Alternatively, the applicant may show verification of certification by a Board approved credentialing entity. Begin the application by credentials process by downloading and completing the “license by credentials” form.
Any method that the applicant uses must include all license requirements such as the background check, CPR certification, and passing a national exam such as the MBLEx.
Massage License Fees
In case you’re wondering how much a massage license costs in Alaska, here’s a summary of the fees charged by the Alaska Board of Massage Therapists. The total amount for initial licensure is $550.
- Nonrefundable application fee: $200
- Massage therapist license fee: $290
- Fingerprint processing fee: $60
A credit card may be used for payments of fees.
Renewal Process
All massage therapy licenses expire on September 30th of odd numbered years. The following must be done to complete your renewal application:
- Download and complete the renewal application
- Complete an new background check with fingerprints
- Verify current CPR certification
- Complete 16 CEU credit hours
- Send renewal fee (check board website for amount)
Alaska Massage Therapy board requires that therapists renew their license every 2 years. Every massage therapist must complete 16 hours of continuing education to rent his or her license.
Establishment Regulations
If you are a business owner or an independent contractor operating in Alaska, you must also hold an active state business license. However if you are working as an employee at another business such as a medical practice or spa, then a business license is not needed. Check with your local municipality to see if a city business license is needed.
Alaska Board of Massage Therapists
Contact Information
Juneau office:
Physical Address:
333 Willoughby Avenue, 9th FL
State Office Building
Juneau, AK 99811-1770
Mailing Address:
PO Box 110806
Juneau,AK 99811-0806
Ph: (907) 465-2550
Fax: (907) 465-2974
Anchorage office:
Board of Massage Therapists
550 W 7th AVE, STE 1500
Anchorage, AK 99501-3567
Ph: (907) 269-8160
Fax: (907) 269-8156
Alaska Board of Massage Therapist Website
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.