More than 40 states require some sort of license to practice massage. For most, this means therapists must meet certain requirements before being granted a license. The best way to ensure the therapist meets those minimum standards is to attend an accredited massage therapy program within the school where the therapist wishes to practice.
The potential student should seek out schools which meet the state requirements for a massage license. The school's admissions office should have those requirements available, and a curriculum which meets or exceeds the standards.
One easy way to see if a school meets the state requirements is to look at their financial aid office. If federal student loans and grants are available, then the school is accredited by the state.
Once a student is enrolled, the classes will be a mixture of hands-on education and traditional book studies. In addition to studying sciences such as pathology, anatomy and kinesiology, students will also receive hands-on training in massage therapy techniques including Swedish massage, chair massage and deep-tissue massage. In addition to the core science and massage technique courses, students may also receive education in business management, reflexology, aromatherapy or shiatsu massage. Each student should assess the offerings of each school to find the curriculum which most closely matches the interests of the student.
Once the student has successfully completed massage school, the student can apply for a massage license. In some areas, an interim license will be granted allowing the applicant to work and earn a living while awaiting approval or testing. In other areas, the applicant must wait until approval before working professionally.
For some areas, all that is required before a license is given is an application and a background check. In other areas, there is some sort of testing before a license is granted. For the states or municipalities which require testing, it is most often limited to either a written or practical exam. There are a few states which require both.
For states which require written examinations, either the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards exam will be used. For practical examinations, the state board will observe and test applicants during a massage. These exams must be passed before a license will be given.
Once a license is granted, massage therapists will have to maintain their education by taking continuing education classes. Each state or municipality will have a minimum number of hours required before a renewal is approved. The therapist is responsible for knowing how many hours are required, and for locating classes which will meet the requirements. Proof of completion will be required when the application for renewal is submitted.