Looking for information to obtain a massage license, or get certified, in California?
Legally working as a massage therapist in California is different than any other state. Whether you are a current massage therapist moving to California, or a resident looking for a massage program, sorting through regulations can be challenging and time-consuming.
I am going to cover the current regulations in California and break down the requirements into simple steps. Soon, you will know everything you need to do, or not do, in order to work as a massage professional in the state.
Licensing vs Certification
The first thing we need to cover is…
California does not license massage therapists, instead it certifies qualified massage therapists.
What’s the difference?
Certification and licensing are not interchangeable terms. It is very important to know the difference between the two before you start the certification process.
Licensing
Licensing is a non-voluntary, or mandatory, requirement. A government agency (board or department) regulates the profession. Passage of a massage licensing law or act makes it illegal for anyone to engage in that occupation within without a license. Over 40 states issue massage therapy licenses.
Certification
According to the American Massage Therapy Association:
“Professional certification is a voluntary process by which a non-governmental professional organization grants recognition to an individual who has met certain qualifications.”
Certification in California is voluntary, like the NCTMB/BCTMB certification. This certification has intended benefits for the public and massage profession in California, which I will discuss in a moment.
Certification in California is obtained through CAMTC, short for California Massage Therapy Council.
What is CAMTC?
CAMTC is not a state board. However, it was created by the California legislature and began taking applications for massage certification in 2009. CAMTC is a private non-profit corporation.
The CAMTC Board of Directors, like other state massage boards, are volunteers. Each volunteer is appointed by California cities, counties, law enforcement, massage schools, the Department of Consumer Affairs, and professional massage associations. For state massage boards, members are often appointed by the governor.
What does CAMTC do?
Allows Portability
Before CAMTC was created, California massage professionals were often required to obtain a city/ county license or permit in every city they practiced. Mobile massage licenses could be pricey and complicated to keep straight. Or if a therapist worked in one city and got a job in a neighboring city, a new license was required.
CAMTC certification allows massage professionals to provide services anywhere in the State of California for one price, $150. There is no need to obtain multiple local permits.
Public Protection
Massage regulations exist to protect the public, since getting a massage by an untrained therapist can be potentially dangerous. Certified therapists must meet certain educational and examination requirements, as well as undergo background checks.
You can verify a certified massage therapist on CAMTC’s website.
Protects the CMT title
CAMTC protects the professional title, Certified Massage Therapist (CMT), and Certified Massage Practitioner (CMP). Only CAMTC certified therapists can use this title in their advertising.
What’s the difference between a CMP and CMT?
Previously, there were two certification levels, Certified Massage Practitioners and Certified Massage Therapists. CMT’s had more stringent requirements (500 hours or 250 hours and completion of an approved exam). Now, California only certifies CMT’s.
Previously certified CMP’s may only use the title “CMP” and can continue to recertify as a CMP, unless they pass the MBLEx and upgrade to CMT.
Certifying Schools
As of 2016, CAMTC began certifying California massage schools.
CAMTC does not:
- Enforce labor laws (Independent Contractor vs Employee)
- Regulate massage establishments
Is Certification Required?
I know even after reading all of this, you may be asking, “Do I have to get certified in California to practice massage?”
No. Remember is certification with CAMTC voluntary. Except when it isn’t.
If you choose not to certify, you need to comply with your local requirements for massage therapists, which may require certification from CAMTC.
An Example
Let’s say you choose not to certify, but move to Los Angeles. You will need to comply with the local massage regulations. It happens that Los Angeles city ordinance for massage establishments requires massage therapists have a CAMTC certification.
The city of Los Angeles Municipal Code defines a “Massage Therapist” as:
“A person who is certified as a “Massage Therapist” by the California Massage Therapy Council under Chapter 10.5 of the California Business and Professions Code” (link).
San Mateo County Municipal Code
5.44.030 – CAMTC certification and local registration required. (a) Individuals. On and after July 1, 2012, it shall be unlawful for any individual to practice massage therapy for compensation as a sole proprietorship or employee of a massage business or in any other capacity within the unincorporated areas of San Mateo County unless that individual is a certified massage practitioner. (Link)
As you can see, certification really does have benefits and is required in many areas of the state. Let’s move on to the steps to getting certified by CAMTC.
Five Steps to California Massage Certification
- Meet the age requirement.
- Meet the educational requirements in the law.
- Pass a CAMTC approved exam.***Not required after 1/1/2019
- Complete a background check.
- Complete applications and pay fee.
Let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Meet Age Requirement
You must be 18 or older to be eligible for certification.
Step 2: Meet Educational Requirements
All applicants must successfully complete a minimum of 500 hours in massage and related subjects (or the credit unit equivalent).
Of the 500 hours, a minimum of 100 hours of instruction must include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Contraindications
- Health and Hygiene
- Business and Ethics
All of the 500 hours shall be from a CAMTC approved school program. The 500 hour requirement does not include online/ distance/ correspondence learning education.
Thinking of going to massage school in California?
Find a CAMTC Approved Program.
CAMTC’s California Closed School Policy
Massage schools close all the time. For applications received after December 30, 2016, CAMTC will not accept any education from a California closed school unless that school:
- had CAMTC School Approval at the time of closure and remains in good standing, or
- that school closed and remains in good standing with a CAMTC Approved School as its official Custodian of Records.
Moving to the Golden State?
Domestic and Canadian Education
CAMTC requires education and training received outside of California be “at least” equivalent to the requirements applied to California school programs.
A good indication that your program will meet CAMTC’s requirements is if your program has/had been approved by the national, regional, or state authority with “responsibility for vocational program approvals.” CAMTC has methods to determine approval for every state, U.S. territory, and the Canadian provinces which register/license massage therapists (Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador).
CAMTC will require an officially sealed school transcript, directly from your approved educational institution, in order to evaluate if the program meets CAMTC minimum requirements.
Foreign Transcripts or Out of Country Education
One significant update happened in 2018, according to the CAMTC website, when CAMTC stated it would no longer be accept foreign/out-of-country education.
However, as of 2023, it appears the have made some changes to this statement. Here is more information for those with out of country massage education.
Step 3: Pass a CAMTC Approved Exam
This is not a requirement after 1/1/2019! You can read more about SB 1480, which was signed into law, here.
The CAMTC accepts the following exams:
- Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx)
- Board Certification Exam in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCETMB)
- National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB)
- National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM)
- New York State Massage Therapy Examination
If you have passed one of the above exams previously in another state, you can fill out a mobility/ score request form from the NCETMB or FSMTB, pay a small fee ($20-25) to forward those scores to the CAMTC.
If you have not passed one of these exams, you will need to do so in order to get certified. The MBLEx is the most common entry-level exam used in other states.
The NCETMB and NCETM are no longer given. The BCETMB is not used by many other states for a licensing exam and has higher hour requirements than the MBLEx.
Need to Study for the MBLEx?
Massage Exam Academy offers unlimited practice exams to help you pass the MBLEx.
Step 4: Complete a Background Check via Live Scan
I have previously used Live Scan fingerprinting for one of my state massage licenses (Florida). Here are some tips:
- Your Live Scan print must be done in California. This differs from most other states’ fingerprinting requirements.
- You cannot re-use prints taken for previous licenses in other states.
- The cost of a fingerprinting and background check ranges from $60 to $100.
- Here is a list of approved California Live Scan provider locations.
- NOTE from CAMTC: Local Police and Sheriff stations may be more experienced in securing legible fingerprints from massage professionals with thin or worn ridges in the pattern area. When Florida enacted its fingerprinting requirement the above problem was a real struggle for massage therapists. Many had to complete their prints multiple times.
Fingerprinting Steps
CAMTC applicants must complete and submit a Massage Therapist Request for Live Scan Service form.
- Make two (2) photocopies of the Massage Therapist form after filling it out.
- Choose a local Live Scan Vendor from the DOJ list.
- Get prints completed at that location. Bring:
- Completed live scan service forms (all 3 copies)
- 2 forms of ID (Driver’s license)
- Payment for service
The Live Scan service provider will fill out the section at the bottom of the page and keep the original.
- Submit one completed copy of the Live Scan Request form to CAMTC. The other copy is for your records.
- You can fax this information to 916-669-5337, or
- Submit by mail:
CAMTC
1 Capitol Mall
Suite 800
Sacramento, CA 95814
It typically takes 72 hours for results to get to CAMTC from the DOJ.
Step 5: Complete Application and Pay Fees
Here is the CAMTC Application Link. The fee for the application and certification is $300. This will increased in 2023.
How long does the certification process take?
CAMTC states the process takes approximately ninety (90) days for complete applications that have no background or educational issues.
Once I am certified, do I need to recertify?
Yes. CAMTC certification is only for a two-year period. You must apply for recertification every two years.
There are no continuing education (CE) requirements required to recertify. The cost to recertify is $200 for two years. This will increased $50 in 2023.
If your certification has lapsed for more than six months, you will need to apply as a new applicant, including submitting new livescan fingerprints and meet the current educational standards and exam requirement.
The Future of Massage Regulation in California
It appears California is going to keep this voluntary model for the time being.
Gov. Jerry Brown on Sept. 22, 2016, extended the Massage Therapy Act, including CAMTC’s voluntary certification program, for four more years (Assembly Bill 2194).
If you have any questions about becoming a Certified Massage Therapist in California, please let me know in the comments below. Thanks!
Photo Credit: Tim Pou (Adapted)
thank you Ivy for this info…
I was certified as a Massage Practitioner in 2014 before the requirements changed
and have kept current until last year when I did not renew my certificate due to the price increase and family situation. Now to re-certify, will in need to up my education hours to 500 or can I bypass that by taking the MLBEx?
Has it been less than 18 months since it expired? If so, you can recertify.
Otherwise, my experience leads me to believe you need to meet the requirements to certify. The current requirement is 500 hours. I do not see anything about bypassing with the MBLEx as an option – https://www.camtc.org/requirements-to-certify/
I’m a Licensed Acupuncturist in VT & MA, practicing for 23 years, and want to do only acupressure massage in Mt Shasta, CA. Can you advise what I would need to do to do acupressure? Thank you!
I would look at getting your massage certification from CAMTC. http://www.camtc.org
I have a certificate of Kobido facial massage and buccal massage. I don’t have a degree in massage therapy, can I open a massage therapy practice in California? I would like to do only these two massages. I would like to travel to the client’s home or receive services at my home. I live in San Jose. What steps should I take?
Hi Monika! I am not a lawyer, but in my experience, I have not seen a waiver for needing a license – just because you focus on one area of the body. My guess is that you would need a massage license to practice massage. I would contact CAMTC or a professional license lawyer in your area.
Hi I live in Toronto Canada. I am a physiotherapist from India but does not hold Canadian physiotherapy license. I want to work as massage therapist in California. Please advise me accordingly.
Here is CAMTC’s policies for out of country education evaluations -https://www.camtc.org/media/2252/schoolspolicies-and-procedures-for-the-evaluation-of-out-of-country-education-final-11292022.pdf
Hi Ivy,
I’ve been CAMTC certified since 2012 & Nationally Board Certified since 2003. If CAMTC requires us to have the National examination to apply … I was wondering if I need to continue renewing my Board Certification in order to continue renewing my CAMTC certification in California.
CAMTC no longer requires an exam to apply.
And it is not the certification they wanted, just the exam scores. States only want exam scores, which do not expire – even if your board certification expires.
Thank you so much for the clarification 🙂
I went to school here in Ca in 2008. The school I went to is shut down and I can no longer get transcripts. I did a 500hr course. What do I need in order to get the certified?
I would check out this article. There are likely links to some California resources in the comments. https://www.massageexamacademy.com/school-transcript/
Yes my question is what are the disqualifications of a background check because I am an ex-felon I am no longer on parole or on probation at discharge I am doing pretty good now and I would like to get my life in order and proceed with this massage therapist it’s pretty interesting if you can give me some feedback on that does have any background disqualify you from being a massage therapist
Hi! Yes, there are some charges that do DQ some applicants – https://www.abmp.com/downloads/FLStatutes.pdf
It may be best to call the board office or a professional licensing lawyer to discuss your charge.
One school in Fl I know allowed an ex felon to enroll and complete the program. He was later denied a license because the school thought it was fine (it was a drug charge). The board cannot change laws only rules, so he did not get licensed as they cannot make exceptions.
I’m from Greece and I have a bachelor degree in physical therapy of England, so I had massage education out of country. Is it possible to get the license without having 500 hours of education again?
Thanks in advance.
I am not sure. I would contact CAMTC about your unique situation.
Hi! The CAMTC fee has increased and is now $300 for 2 years. The rate recently changed from $200 and went up $100. The increase was set in place for anyone applying 4/1/2023 and moving forward.
Thanks! Got it updated.
I would appreciate your assistance since I called the Massage Therapy Council and they told me that barefoot massage therapy is not permitted. However, I think your post is excellent and I’m hoping to become a licenced massage therapist in my community.
Interesting. I would ask them SPECIFICALLY where the law/bylaws says that the hands must be used… And if shiatsu practitioners could use their hands and knees or elbows. I looked at the code and here is the State’s definition of massage –
(e) “Massage” means the scientific manipulation of the soft tissues. For purposes of this chapter, the terms “massage” and “bodywork” shall have the same meaning.
It does not include or exclude feet, hands, elbows, forearms.
I’m from Michigan and I done my massage school 2009. I love to move to LA.also I’m licensed massage therapist. Do I need something also to open my business in LA.
Thank you!
I would start with getting your CAMTC certification and then you likely will need to contact the county where you plan to move to get any needed establishment or business licenses too.
Hi I need to renew my massage therapist license. In addition I would like to specialize in post cosmetic surgery drainage massage.
live in Santa Monica where can I go to get CAMTC certification form to practice
massage here been practicing massage since 1996 with my license from illinois
and permit from Los Angeles I do not need any more to take an exam to get my Certificate to practice , just pay $150 with my live scan and camtc form. where can I get my camtc forms zip is 90401
Thank you for providing clarification on the certification requirement. I’m currently studying Ayurveda and want to practice where I live (Los Angeles); can you recommend an affordable accelerated program for the 500 hours track? Most programs charge around $10,000, and since I’ve run out of financial aid, I am wondering if perhaps certification can be achieved through a local community college which would be much cheaper than a private vocational school.
Hi! Chances are a Comm College would be the longest option, but the most likely to help you with the financial aid aspect. I am not familiar with massage schools in LA. It is just something you will need to keep researching and find the school that is best for your and your interests. Best!
So I’m trying to obtain my certification for Los Angles, I currently a LMT on Maui. We had a total of 600hr for our massage schooling. How can I go about see if California will accept credits? Trying to be certified in multi states. Also is there a certain date that everything must be done by?
I do not see why you would have problems with CA or LA. I would look at camtc.org for applications for CA. I do not think there is a time/deadline issue that you need to be aware of.
Ok I was wondering I’m already certified but I got that in 2007. So do I need to go take the course again? I went to everest College.
I was wondering if I could get some guidance. I live in Maryland and will be finishing my massage therapy education on December 10th, 2021. I even have to make a business plan as one of my projects. This being said I’m trying to figure out some details on laws, scope of practice, restrictions in massage therapy. I do plan on moving and working in my future within the state of California. if you could help me with some of these questions i would very much like that.
Sure! This article should help you get started with that.
Also, check out CAMTC.org or search the city you plan to work in plus “massage therapy regulations” for local requirements.
Hello,
I have a Diploma of Remedial Massage from Australia. Do you know which US states, allow international massage therapists to work?
What are the requirements?
As you see above, California does not accept foreign transcripts.
However, most other states do. Each state is different, but most require 500 hours of training and passing of an entry-level exam, such as the MBLEx.
My wife is a licensed massage therapist in Taiwan, we have been married in California now for over a year. Is her massage license transferable to California or does she need to take an online class to become certified.
Last I knew, CAMTC did not accept foreign education. You can contact them to see if things have changed. Or if massage is not regulated in you jurisdiction, she still may be able to practice.
I was licensed and fingerprinted in California in 2009 but my licenses has expired. Do i have to re-do the fingerprint process?
I am actually not sure. My guess based on other states is yes, but I would contact CAMTC to make sure.
Hi there,
I just got an email saying I am CAMTC certified. Does that mean I no longer have to take the MBLEX test? I’m scheduled to take it in October.
As the article says, CAMTC does not require the MBLEx.
Hi I’m a certified massage therapist in California, took a 9 month course, I need to get licensed to start working at a spa, do I need to take any additional exams the ones I took while in school, like the MBLEx etc.. in order to get licensed? Or I can just applied for the CAMTC and I would get approved without having to take the MBLEx? Sorry I’m so confused..
Last I knew, the MBLEx is not required for CAMTC certification (I believe since 2019). You can likely proceed with the application.
https://www.camtc.org/requirements-to-certify/
Hello, I have a question about the fingerprint requirement. I live in Texas and am a licensed massage therapist wanting to move to California. I am filling out the paperwork and noticed that the list for Fingerprint locations is all California. Can I go to a LiveScan location in Texas get my fingerprints and background? and will it be accepted in California?
Thank you
I am sure there is some way to do it. I know for For Florida there is a place to search for out of state-approved Livescan providers. You may just need to call and ask if they are approved for CAMTC.
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My CAMTC Certification has expired and I allowed it to lapse for a few years because I was injured. When I tried to recertify, I was told that sometime between my last certification and now, my school had lost its certification, and I would not be eligible for recertification. My school was fine when I graduated and for several years after, so this seems unfair. I’m too old to go back to school and re-take classes I’ve already taken. Any advice?
Have you looked under the “closed school policy”? https://www.camtc.org/requirements-to-certify/
I am not sure if that helps in this situation. But if your education was approved previously, is there a possibility to just certify again instead of recertifying?
Ivy
Hai Sis,
My name is SRIDHAR, I am from INDIA.
I would like to get massage license in California!
So, mblex exam is enough for getting licence in CA?
I would contact CAMTC for information and guidance. If your education is from India, it would be considered a foreign education. Taking the MBLEx is no longer a requirement in CA and I am not aware of anyone getting a license by passing the exam without meeting the educational component.
Hi Sridhar ,
My name is Bhavesh. I m from India .I wanted to know did you get massage license in California? Because even I want to get my massage license from there.
I do not have a California certification (but I do meet the requirements). I suggest looking for a good training program in the state. They should be able to help you with getting your education and learning about the licensing requirements in your area as well as the state certification.
Hello, I am a military spouse, and have been licensed in NC, VA, and HI. Is there a way I can gain reciprocity due to military spouse status? It was my understanding this is now an option.
Thankfully they have made it easier for military spouses to obtain licenses in most places! However, I am only able to find the recertification instructions for military spouses and not the certification instructions. Contact CAMTC and ask what you need to do based on your situation.
Where does my school send my transcript to CAMTC? What is the exact address or fax number.
It could be the address where to send supplemental materials on this application helper- https://www.camtc.org/media/1615/camtc-2019-application-for-certification.pdf
Fax is on this page – https://www.camtc.org/contact-us/
Hello! My girlfriend and I just moved from Florida to California. She was certified in Florida, passed her mBlex etc but apparently her course in Florida was just short of the number of hours necessary to qualify in California. Is it possible to do a supplemental class in California for the remaining hours?
Great information ! I just have one question.
I am moving to CA in a week so
Do I send my school transcripts and the other documents (finger prints …) all together ? Or should I send my school transcripts first ?
Thank you .
You technically do not send them, your school and livescan provider will send those to CAMTC. You should apply first and get to work on getting supporting documents to CAMTC.
Hello, I have a few questions, I’m thinking about relocating to CA and I’m currently licensed in the state of MS, the only exam I took is the MS board exam, do I have to take the Mblex? I’m not sure If I read it correctly that starting January of 2019 that this will no longer be a requirement. If it’s no longer a requirement what else would I need to be certified? Thank you.
The MBLEx is no longer a CAMTC requirement as of January 2019. The steps to get a license the steps to getting a license are all in the article, step by step. Best of luck in Cali!
Can working for a wellness spa and training with a licensed message therapist account for any hours?
I am not aware of an apprenceship-type route in California. You should contact CAMTC about that.
I have been reading information online ALL day and this article has answered all my questions ! LOL THANK YOU!!!!
But I am in question to knowing if i need a license or certification or something to include practices such as:
NON INVASIVE Body contouring and skin tightening either before or after cosmetic surgery (tummy tuck, Brazilian Butt Lift) , Manual Lymph Drainage for post surgery individuals, Wood tools for body contouring , Vacuum Therapy, and Tummy wraps, using devices for Ultra Sonic Cavitation massages / UV massages….. I cannot find anything on what is required for practicing these things? Would these be under the CAMTC licensing ?????
My main focus is on post surgical Therapy .
THANK YOU
That is the thing about laws, is that they are often open to interpretation since they cannot list everything that is acceptable or not. Since I am not a lawyer, I cannot say for sure either. What I can do is leave a link to CAMTC’s list of law violations.
https://www.camtc.org/media/1428/understanding-camtc-law-violations-b02.pdf
This is EXACTLY what I am looking for. I’ve been going in circles for MONTHS trying to find out what is ACTUALLY needed for body wrapping and wood therapy!
I’m planning on moving to California sometime in the future. I have an AAA degree/certification in the state of Arizona. I’ve been doing massage therapy for over five years now. So what I’m understanding is to become certified in the state of California, I will have take the Mblex test? And of course the background check and fingerprints. I just want to make sure I’m understanding correctly before I begin to take steps toward the Mblex test. Thanks for your time.
This article states that the MBLEx is not required. You just have to meet the other requirements (educational hours, application, fee, background check).
I currently hold an Estheticians license (went to school for 760hrs). I want to get certified in massage. Will I need to do the whole 500hr massage program or can some of my Esthetician schooling (a lot of which is similar to massage) had be used towards the massage therapy certificate?
I would find a school that offers both facial and massage programs and ask if any hours would transfer in. Each school is different.
Would a license from Hawaii be approved by the CA board? Or does that also count as foreign?
A Hawaii license is not a foreign education.
I am a high school senior, and I was thinking of going to bakersfield college and take science courses and get my AA degree. After that I am thinking of becoming a massage therapist in California. So is this possible that I could get a job as a massage therapist and that carry on my bachelors education and become a dermatologist.
I am sorry rather than telling me to read the article again could you just comment me back and let me know.
No. All of the information you need on getting a massage license is in this article. I am not qualified to give you the requirements on needing a dermatology license in California.
So I trained at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine back in 2002 and got well over 500 hours. I subsequentally moved soon after to a state that didn’t require licensing to practice at the time and after that moved into another work situation. I’m now back in California and want to practice again, what do I need to do? I’ve had the education and the professional experience but, as it’s been several years ago does that matter? I live in Sacramento.
Just follow the above steps. There is not a current exam requirement in CA, so you have met the basic requirements.
What if the school that no longer exists is listed? I too went to school in 2001 and it closed years later. I have some of the certificates, but not all. Do I need to go back and enroll in a new school and take courses again?
The school should still have records kept somewhere. This article may help you find a transcript after your school has closed.
https://www.massageexamacademy.com/closed-school-transcript/
If International schools teach American curriculum, why is California not accepting of their transcripts? Would a school be able to submit their qualified curriculum to be able to be accepted by California. There are several states in the nation that accept the Curriculum of CRSMT (Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy) which is taught by Americans, with the American curriculum. Why isn’t it based on a case by case basis to see if the school complies?? I’ve passed the MBlex and have more than enough hours of the curriculum courses California requires. Its not taught foreign curriculum. All students that I know of return to the states to practice with no problem. Why is California so stringent to international studies? CRSMT goes above and beyond American requirements, and their training is beyond excellent not accepting of mediocre training that is found within California schools, which are just the basics. How can we get this school approved?
Working with many Florida licensees, I know that is an excellent school. Contact CAMTC and ask if they have any suggestions. Possibly the school could get their curriculum approved. It is worth a shot.
I am a licensed massage therapist from France. Am I able to transfer my hours in California like I did for my California esthetician license?
You will need to contact CAMTC, but their website now states CAMTC is no longer accepting foreign/out-of-country education. This is a change in their policy.
Hi,
I worked as a massage therapist for over ten years, stopping in 2008. I had 300 hours and was a Certified CMT. Im a Certified Yoga and Pilates teacher and have taught and taken hundreds of hours of CEC’s since. What is the current process fro me to renew my massage certification? Do those hours count toward my re certification?
When you let a license or certification expire, you become subject to the new rules when you reapply.
Here are the new requirements to certify – http://camtc.org/requirements-to-certify/
Contact CAMTC to see if they have any variances available for your situation.
Hello Ivy,
I completed a massage therapy program (720 hours) back in 2005 at Maric College in Pomona CA. The school has closed since then and I didn’t continue to work in this field but now I would like to get certified. My question is, would I be able to take the test and be certified after so many years?
I don’t see a problem with as many hours as you have taken.
We now have a Salon Storefront and want to hire
2 massage therapists,,, what additional licensing do we need to employ them ?
Contact your city or county government to see if you need a massage establishment license and what credentials they need to have to work legally in that jurisdiction.
I trained and gained a diploma of massage therapy in Australia and wanted to work in California, however, apparently the CAMTC no longer take qualifications from overseas. Is there a way around this that you know of or will I have to study here to regain certification?
I just saw that. I updated the post to reflect the changes. Thanks for the heads up!
I don’t see a way around this right now, but you can contact CAMTC to see if they have any options for you.
Hello. Im interested in becoming a CMT. I have attended nursing school but didn’t complete program. What schools and how much does it cost for the sacramento, calif area?
Search your area for CAMTC approved schools. Prices will vary, but try your hardest not to make it all about cost 😉
Hi Ivy,
I appreciate all your posts and knowledge… Could you please explain what the difference between (250 hrs) Certified Massage Practitioner and (500 hrs) Certified Massage Therapist is… Not sure I understand the working differences…
Thank you,
Rochelle
Really it is hours of training. Most states require 500 hours or more. I do not believe their scopes are different in Cali. One just indicates more training. From what I understand the 250 level is no longer an option for new applicants, it is only a credential that can be renewed by current “license” holders.
To open a massage business in California what license is required?
Each city is different. Check with local government offices (county or city clerks).
Hi, I am confused.
I have a Mississippi license (now expired) with 700 hours of school. I am understanding that I dont need to take the mblex to work in Cali. I have read all the steps but they dont seem clear to me. So, do I just need to prove that I have the degree and pay the fees to be able to get certified? And does it really take 90 days?
Thanks!
Hi Heather, To become certified, you need to pass an approved exam (see step 3).
Yes, it can take 90 days.
Hello so is taking the exam in CA just like taking the mblex with a 100 questions?
Hi!
What other exam are you referring to? I am not aware of another exam that is like the MBLEx that you can take in CA.
I’m trying to help a friend of my wife who live in the LA area; she want to become a massage therapist; she’s in the US on a student visa and would like to know if that will be a problem?
Please send me an email with the steps for her to complete; she like to know if she would be approved through the legal process prior to doing all the other stuff required. My wife and I want to assist her with the paperwork and help her.
Thanks,
Dennis
This post is all of the steps. It has all of the requirements and links to the CAMTC applications.
https://www.massageexamacademy.com/california-massage-license-certification/
Has she taken training in massage yet? If so, she needs to take the MBLEx next. This site would help her study for that exam. If English is a struggle, I would recommend an English tutor while studying. I have had a few from Thailand that said that helped them a lot.
As far as the student visa, I am not sure about that. You will need to contact CAMTC. Their info is in the blog post.
CAMTC is a busy office. I have found them to be professional, friendly and supportive.
I passed my MBLEx test on April 25, 2018; I understood that the licence process, to completion, could take up to 90 days (if there are glitches; ie: incomplete application, etc.), from receipt of my grade passage (48 hours).
All of my other required documents were complete and on file. (they let you know)
Yeah…. they are so efficient!
I received an email today (May 15th) that I have been approved for certification; I should receive my certifications within the next 4 business days (by mail).
Thank you, Mrs. H…for your terrific program. If I had not found you…and followed your program, I might still be struggling and not approved. Kudos. gm
Such great news, Gail! You are truly an inspiration and I know you will serve your community well! I am so glad we got to talk!
Hola vivo en. California y me gustaría saver si California acepta estudios de Las vegas Nevada. Y que necesito aser para que me certifique California con el estudio de Lass Vegas NV.
Las Vegas.me da 620hrs
Agradeseria su alluda porque he llamado al California Massage Teraphy Council y me dicen que no es aceptable gracias por su tiempo
¿Por qué dijeron que tu educación no sería aceptada? Dado que la escuela en Nevada está aprobada allí, no entiendo por qué no sería aprobada en California. Y si ha tomado el MBLEx, creo que calificaría para la certificación.
Hi, I live in. California and I would like to know if California accepts Las Vegas Nevada studies. And I need to be able to get certified by California with the Las Vegas NV studio.
Las Vegas.me gives 620hrs
I would appreciate your help because I called the California Massage Therapy Council and they tell me that it is not acceptable. Thank you for your time.
Why did they say your education would not be accepted? Since the school in Nevada is approved there, I do not understand why it would not be approved in California. And if you have taken the MBLEx, I would think you would qualify for certification.
I am in Los Angeles and received my massage competition 12/9/2009.
300 hours. I am having a problem now posting adds Because they want a liscence number. I am confused Jerry Brown says Getting liscenced is voluntary I am going to be moving to Florida within the next six months and was wondering if I can get some written certification to post adds on massage anywhere as all the other sites have been taken down I have been a independent massage therapist for ten years. Is there anyway around this Since Jerry Brown says getting liscenced is vonuntary
Hi Carol,
Did you see the part where I said “certification with CAMTC voluntary. Except when it isn’t.”
If you choose not to certify, you need to comply with your local requirements for massage therapists, which may require certification from CAMTC.
Under that, I list LA as an example:
An Example
Let’s say you choose not to certify, but move to Los Angeles. You will need to comply with the local massage regulations. It happens that Los Angeles city ordinance for massage establishments requires massage therapists have CAMTC certification.
The city of Los Angeles Municipal Code defines a “Massage Therapist” as:
“A person who is certified as a “Massage Therapist” by the California Massage Therapy Council under Chapter 10.5 of the California Business and Professions Code” (link).
As for Florida, I am afraid to say that the requirement if FL is 500 hours and completion of a board-approved exam. Here is more information on FL – https://www.advancedmassagetechniques.com/florida-massage-license/.
I want school massage therapy in california hayward
I want school massage therapy in california h
I greatly appreciate your article, but I’m still quite confused. I am moving to Los Angeles from Utah (900hr program) and I plan on being a sole proprietor_strictly mobile doing table in homes, hotels, and at events, plus chair on film and television sets (i hope). Do I need the state certification at minimum and a city business permit for each city I go to for work? Again, this would be the greater L.A. area. Your help is SO appreciated. In fact, I just referred your website to a friend who is looking at your MBLEx study guide options because she needs the extra help. (Slightly off topic lol)
Usually the CAMTC certification is very beneficial if you will be traveling around, especially in multiple cities and counties. Quite honestly, CAMTC should be able to tell you if you will need any additional permits since you will be mobile.
Ivy
I am interested in becoming certified in my area of CA. I am not sure if my former school closed in good standing. If so, how do I find out?
Former school now closed is Aherne’s School of Massage Therapy, then located in Mariposa CA.
Contact http://www.CAMTC.org
Thank you so much for writing this Ivy. It was very helpful.
Happy to help, Kimberly!
Hello, I have been a licensed massage therapist and working full time in the state of Washington since 1979, as a clinical massage therapist, contracted with all the major health insurance companies. I have been a member of the AMTA since 1985 and I have been board certified with the NCBTMB since 1993. I also served a term on the WA State Massage Licensing Board, 1988-1992. The education requirements for WA State entry level exam are 500 hours. Plus 24 hours of continuing education are required every two years. With these qualifications, I would like to know how to expidite the process of getting a California certification to practice massage. Thanks!!
I am not aware of any process to expedite getting a license, but I would follow the steps and submit your information to CAMTC as soon as possible to start the process.
You did not mention taking an exam. Did you take an exam to get your WA license, or since getting your license?
Yes, took exams for both Washington State and the National Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.
I have been issued a Certified massage technician license by the state of California in 2002, so needless to say I was unaware of the recent changes to the law. Will I be able to be exempt from being a licensed massage therapist and utilize my Certificate as a massage technician if I have a cosmetology license?
Have you renewed your CAMTC certification? That is the only way to keep it valid and active.
Cosmetologists and massage therapists do not have the same scope of practice. Cosmos typically cannot massage the whole body (limited to the hands, feet and face). That would be like saying can you work as a cosmetologist with your massage certification. It just does not work that way. You have to work within your scope of practice.
How long will it take me get the massage therapy license after pass the examination?
It largely depends on if you have met all of the other requirements and how fast CAMTC is processing applications. When you pass the exam the scores are sent to the state within 48 hours. So if you have everything else (proof of the other requirements) to their office, it should not take too long. Some boards are faster than others. And I am sure CAMTC is a busy office.
So common, Kaylani!
I would think your education and passed exam would be enough for you to apply and get licensed in most states. Are you still in WI? If so, I would look at the application and see what you need to do to move forward. If you are elsewhere, the steps are basically the same.