Washington Massage License
Updated for 2024
Massage therapists in Washington must have a license before practicing. Massage licenses are issued by the Washington State Board of Massage, which is governed by the State Department of Health. The mission of the Board is to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public, as well as establish standards of practice and minimum therapist competency requirements.
To become a licensed massage therapist (LMT) in the state of Washington, applicants must first complete the requirements as described on the Washington State Board of Massage website. These requirements include completing a 500-hour massage education program, passing an examination such as the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) or one previously offered by the NCBTMB, and passing the Jurisprudence exam. For assistance preparing for the MBLEx, check out what MBLExGuide has to offer.
Industry research from ABMP in 2016 estimated that there was about 13,000 massage therapists in Washington State.
Washington Quick Look
Massage License Required? Yes
Designation: LMT
Education hours: 625
Exam: MBLEx or NCBTMB
CEUs / Renewals: 24 CEUs due every 2 yrs / renew every year
Massage Education Requirements in Washington
Applicants for a Washington massage license are required to show successful completion of board-approved massage school or program, transfer program or apprenticeship program. You can view a current list of approved schools on their website. Training requirements for programs beginning prior to September 1, 2021 consist of a minimum of 500 hours of instruction completed in no less than six months. Education and training requirements were increased to 625 hours for students beginning their training on or after September 1, 2021, and must be completed in no fewer than 24 weeks. The current massage training curriculum must include the following minimum hours:
- 90 hours of anatomy and physiology
- 60 hours of kinesiology
- 70 hours of pathology
- 260 hours of massage theory principles and practice of massage
- 50 hours of student clinic (not to exceed 75 hours)
- 55 hours of business and clinical practices
- 40 hours of professional ethics
Examination Requirements
The Washington State Board of Massage has approved the following exams:
- Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB)
- NCETMB credentialing exam offered by the NCBTMB
If you’re working on becoming a licensed massage therapist in Washington, passing the massage exam is required. Get ahead by exploring MBLEx practice tests. These practice exams and quizzes will provide you with a sneak peek into the exam’s format, types of questions, and level of difficulty. This approach will also help you build the confidence you need to pass the actual exam on test day.
If you have not yet taken the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and are planning to seek licensure in Washington, simply select this state when registering for the MBLEx, and they will send your scores to the Washington State Board of Massage when you pass. Check out our About the MBLEx page to see how to apply and schedule your exam.
Additional License Requirements
Getting a Washington massage therapy license license has additional requirements. The applicant must also:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have a current CPR and first aid card from an approved education program
- Pass a Jurisprudence Exam with a score of 100%
- Submit to a fingerprint-based criminal background check
- Complete 4 hours of HIV/AIDs training
Application Process
Applicants for a Washington massage therapy license should start by downloading the license application packet that includes instructions and requirements. Out-of-state applicants may be granted a Washington massage license if they meet the specified criteria. There is no temporary permit available in Washington.
Massage License Fees
Below you’ll find a summary of the fees charged by the Washington State Board of Massage. You should also see the fee schedule on the Board’s website for all fees related to massage license application and renewal.
- Application and initial license: $226
- Renewal fee: $166
- Late renewal penalty: $75
- Verification of license: $10
Renewal Process
All massage therapy licenses expire on the practitioner’s birthday. A license may be renewed within the 90 days prior to expiration. 24 hours of continuing education is due every 2 years. A minimum of 8 hours must be in direct massage skills training. And a minimum of 4 hours must be in professional ethics, communication, and/or Washington State massage laws and regulations. 2 of these hours must also be education on professional roles and boundaries. The following must be done to complete your renewal application:
- Complete the online renewal process
- Verify current CPR certification
- Complete 24 CEU credit hours every 2 years. 16 of these continuing education hours may be taken online.
- Send renewal fee of $166
Washington State Board of Massage
Contact Information
Mailing Address:
Department of Health
PO Box 1099
Olympia, WA 98507-1099
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.