Are you considering a career in massage therapy in Florida and do not know the regulations or requirements?
Are you a massage therapist in another state moving to Florida and need to get a license there?
Maybe you have visited the Florida Board of Massage website, or a few websites of massage schools you are considering attending, and you need help figuring out the requirements, or your next step.
I am a licensed massage therapist in Florida and Florida Board-Approved continuing education provider that specializes in helping people with the licensing and renewal process.
I think I can help answer your questions, and get you started on the right path to help you meet your goals.
Here we go.
3 Routes to Licensure
First, Massage therapy is regulated in Florida by the Department of Health. Unless you have a license from the Florida Department of Health, you may not offer any massage services in the state of Florida.
So, how do you get a Florida massage license? There are three basic routes to licensure in Florida: Examination, Endorsement, and Apprenticeship.
Examination
This is the most common route for those attending school in Florida.
Applicants will need to show proof of attending a Florida Board Approved Massage School, or a massage school approved in their state (500-hour minimum), and pass a Florida Massage Board-Approved examination (MBLEx, NCETMB, NCETM, NESL).
For more information on massage licensing exams: MBLEx vs NCETMB
Endorsement
This is the most common route for those moving to Florida and went to school out-of-state.
If you attended a 500+ hour massage therapy school, hold a massage therapy license in another state, and have completed a licensing exam, such as the MBLEx, NCETMB, or NYS state exam – this route is probably for you!
I received my license this way, and each week I help many people with the process of transferring their massage license to Florida from another state.
The endorsement process can be confusing. On my Florida endorsement page, I offer a checklist and licensing guide to streamline the process, and I also cover unique questions and special situations.
Apprenticeship
Florida is unique in that it allows massage therapists to train through a Board-approved apprenticeship program.
This route has some flexibility and benefits as a route to licensure, but typically involves a much longer time commitment (12-24 months).
One advantage is that you will have plenty of hands-on experience upon completion of the program.
After years of rumors and speculation, the apprenticeship route may be going away soon. In 2020, a bill to eliminate this route to licensure was proposed. If you plan to use this route, I suggest you contact the board of massage before beginning an apprenticeship program in Florida.
Resources
Massage License Application: Online or Printable
Massage Establishment License Application
You will need to have your massage exam scores sent to the Florida Board of Massage if you did not already do so at the time of your exam:
NCETM, NCETMB, Or NESL (NCBTMB) (You will need to obtain login information from the NCBTMB to access this form)
Required CE Courses
Applicants will need to show proof of completion of (10 Hours Florida Law and Rules) from a Florida Board-approved provider if not completed during massage training.
Step-By-Step Licensing Checklist
I’ve added a FREE step-by-step checklist to my 10 Hour Florida Law Course to help you avoid confusion and headaches during the application process.
What happens after you apply for a license?
After you apply for your massage therapy license, you will receive a Florida File Number.
After the Florida Board of Massage receives your school transcript, your exam scores, and any other materials you may need to provide, the Florida Board of Massage will automatically issue your license.
Contact the Florida Board of Massage Therapy
Florida Department of Health
Board of Massage Therapy
4052 Bald Cypress Way, BIN #C-06
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3257
Phone: 850-245-4161
Fax: 850-921-6184
MQA_MassageTherapy@doh.state.fl.us
Questions?
If you have a more specific question, or need clarification on something, let me know in the comments below!
You can also send me an email, ivy@floridamassage.com
~ Ivy
I’m completely lost, I graduated in 2003 and miss by 10 points the license , now I will like to try again. What should I do?
Hi Nancy,
Have you looked at taking the MBLEx? It was not available in 2003 and many people prefer that to the other exams. I do offer a study guide and prep service for the Florida board-approved massage exam. You can look at it here. Please let me know if you have other questions.
Just another thought too, if you are wanting a FL license, you may need to take an update in these courses, there is now 10 hours of FL law and rules required instead of 4. If you buy the florida massage license package, you would have access to get the study guide exam prep for 1/2 price.
I currently reside in california, have a licensed massage therapist (250 hours), graduated from college in 2013. I have been working in a chiropractor’s clinic for 7 years. I am planning to move to Florida. Question: what are my steps to obtain a license in Florida. Do I need more hours? Where is the best place to get them in Florida or can I finish my studies in California? Do I need to take exams to obtain a license in Florida? Can I get hours for online training?
Hi Elena,
I have an updated website for transfers here (https://www.floridamassage.com/license/). You likely will need to get more hours since the minimum program in Florida is 500 and they still do require a board examination at this time. I am not aware that they accept online hours. I would contact schools in Florida about transferring your hours in. Many schools are familiar with that process- more so than myself. Best wishes!
Hello Elena, I had similar situation was was able to shore up my hours at Bright Education (brighteducationinstitute.com). They really helped me with the transition, offered me night classes, the tuition was very affordable, and I was able to get licensed in no time.
Thanks for sharing, James!
Hello Ivy,
My situation is I already took the MBLEx and past in 2012 they gave me a print out of my score which unfortunately I’ve missed placed placed and cant cant seem to find it. And now I’m unsure on what to do next to receive my license from the state of Florida and if I need that print out to do so? I understand I have put this off for too long is there a time frame for me in which if I haven’t applied for my license after passing the exam that I would no longer be able to receive my license? Also how long does it usually take to receive your license after applying? Thank you for your time.
Hi Lydia,
Actually that piece of paper is just for your own records. It will not help you get your license. Did you put FL down as the state to send your scores to when you applied to take the MBLEx? If yes, FL has your scores. If not, What you need to do is go to the FSMTB and fill out the “mobility form”. It will cost $25 to send your scores to FL.
If it has been over a year since you applied, you will need to apply again. They keep your information for a year on hold. So, it is not to late ;) . After you apply, get your scores in, and have your school send a transcript to the Board – it takes about weeks to get your license. I hope this helps! Best wishes!
If I graduated Americana Callage from CA for 500 hrs and If I want to move to florida and Take the examination in FL is it possible?
Thanks
Hi Suriwat!
I do not see your school on the list of schools not approved in FL. Just look it over to make sure it is not on there too.
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/mqa/massage/appCalMS.pdf
So, if it is not on there – you will next need to take the exam. Here is a checklist for you to follow in order to get your FL license. Let me know if you have other questions and best wishes!
Hi Ivy,
I’m trying to decide what to do and where to begin. I’m thinking about the apprenticeship program but I’m not sure. One thing I wondered is what would my sponsor have to gain by doing this for me. How would I approach a therapist to see if they would be interested? Also, are there twice as many hours to complete if I go that route rather than just going to school? Part of my issue is the old…when you have money you have no time and vise versa. I thought maybe I could do an online course so I can still work my regular job and finish in some type of apprenticeship. Is that a possibility? Your input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance, Lisa
Hi Lisa,
I know this is a tough decision. I will try to help.
Sponsors get paid by their students (like a school tuition), so that is what they gain. And yes you need twice as many hours going the apprenticeship route. It is more flexible as far as hours (if you work another job).
I am not aware of any information that states Florida would accept online education hours for the massage training at this time. I would not think that would be an option.
If massage therapy is something you really, really want to do – You will have to make the time (500 hours or 1000 hours) and accept that it will cost money for training and it will take time to find a job or build a business.
I am not trying to push you away from the profession but I have seen far too many people not take this decision seriously and get lured by the short amount of hours for training and the possibility of “making making $60,000 out of school” (very rare@!). Think short and long term about the career.
If this is really what you want to do – go for it – and enjoy it!
I am currently attending an approved massage therapy school. The entire course is 750hrs. I understand the state of Florida only requires 500hrs from an approved massage therapy school. Do I REALLY have to complete the 750hrs or can I stop at 500hrs? I have already completed ALL of the course work, taken the final and have all my clinicals done.
Thanks.
Hi Dawn,
I understand your desire to get going with your career, but I do not know if it would be something I would risk quitting. You could run into a few problems now, or down the road. First, the school would not have to release your transcripts to the state if you have not paid the full tuition. Also, I know there have been people who have not had their licenses approved because they did not “graduate” from a 500 hour program. I am not sure how the BOM would react to that. You could email them and ask. What hours do you have left if you have your coursework and clinicals done?
Hi Ivy!
I was recently approached by a person who wants me to sponsor them for an apprenticeship. For some reason the FL DOH website isn’t working so I was wondering if you could give me a quick run-down of how it works. Do I need to have been licensed for a certain length time myself? Do I need to offer any type of training? What is considered a reasonable fee for being sponsor? Do I need insurance to cover the apprentice? Anything you can think of that would be helpful would be much appreciated! Or if you know of any reference material to point me toward that would be a help also.
Thanks,
Melissa
Apprenticeship is one of the least understood routes by most people. I do not completely understand it myself. There are a few requirements for you. I believe the length you have been practicing is one of them (I am thinking it is 3 years). There is a fair amount of paperwork for you too.
Here is the application – http://www.floridahealth.gov/licensing-and-regulation/massage-therapy/_documents/massage-appren-app.pdf
There is also a chance this route could be eliminated – http://www.abmp.com/news/massage-apprenticeships-could-be-eliminated-in-florida/
I have no idea what would be a good reasonable fee? It is a big time commitment for you too!
I wish I could be of more help!
For the actual law and rules concerning apprenticeships see FAC 64B7-29. I tried to link that, but it did not work. Sorry!
Best wishes,
Ivy
Hello Ivy :)
I am currently a student at the Texas Institute for Massage Therapy (Steiner) and will be graduating in March of 2014. I plan on taking the MBLEX in January but will have to wait until I graduate to receive my license. The school is 815 hours + 119 hours of clinical. My wife and I were planning on moving to Florida and me practicing there. We are in our 50’s. My question is: Is there additional schooling I will need to take or is it just applying through the BOM with my credentials to get accepted?
I only ask because it seams to be a bit confusing….
Thank you for your reply,
Michael
Hi Michael,
You can follow this checklist. It will guide you step by step. You have 3 courses (15 CE hours total) to complete (links to that package are on the checklist) and they can be done online. That should be it for additional schooling.
Best wishes on your remaining time in school!
Please let me know if you have any other questions about the MBLEx or the FL licensing process.
Hi Ivy,
I’ve been out if massage school for 3 years now and ultimately regret not having continued to further my career as a massuist. I’ve completed the 500hr requirement for Florida, but unfortunately I still have yet to pass my state examination test for my license, I was just curious as to what steps I would need to take to get back on my feet. Do I need to return to school? Do I just need to re-study everything from an updated massage book? Help!!
Hi Jess,
Your story is quite common. I know many people that have taken a break after school and when the time is right, completed the rest of the steps needed.
This checklist will provide you with everything you need. You should have completed the 3 courses in school, so you should not have to redo those. I do have a link to my study guide and examp prep on that page. That will give you up to date information on studying for and passing your boards.
Hello! I have question about how I should apply:) Wondering if I should apply for a Florida license by examination or endorsement….I have 1030 hrs from massage school in ny and have already take ncbtmb exam and passed. Just looking for some guidance on how to get my fl license,any advice would help! I’ve looked at few fl doh sites and have checklists,just don’t know what to do…thank u!!!’
Great question! ALL NYS massage therapists need to apply as examination candidates since you have your own examination and do not use the nce or mblex to get your license in NYS. Do you have the checklist from this site? Go to the 15 hour package for new florida licenses. It will guide you step by step. Let me know if you cannot find it.
Hello Ivy,
I was a Licensed Massage Therapist in another state but have since had it revoked. I have since relocated to Florida. Is it possible for me to go to a massage therapy school in Florida, get the required hours and take the MBLEx and start over again in my career or will I never have the option of becoming a Licensed Massage Therapist in any state due to my revocation?
Hi Maria,
Was you license taken away, or did you just let it expire? Those are two totally separate things. Starting over with your eductation will not benefit you in any way since you would still need to list past licenses and why you do no have them any more when you apply. If you licensed was revoked, it really depends on what the offense was and if they deem that you practicing would be harmful to the public. I would contact the Board of Massage in Florida and talk to them about your circumstances and whether they think you could apply and get a license.
Hello Ivy,
My wife worked in massage therapy in Peru. She would like to continue that work here. She only speaks Spanish. The exams are given in Spanish but will Florida except them? Are there any schools in the Tampa/Clearwater area that offer classes in Spanish?
Hi Steve,
The MBLEx is given in Spanish and the Florida board would accept it. Does she have 500 hours of massage training? Beings it is an international school, the Board will look over her transcript a little more.
I do not know of any schools that offer the Spanish courses. That is a great question. You could call around to local schools and ask for help in this area. Also, she is welcome to use my courses and use Google Translate to help her through the courses. I have had other Spanish speakers use that option.
I was just in Clearwater/Tampa last month. It was warm (It is -8 degrees in Iowa today).
I want to take to get my license to do massage in FL was wondering about one thing I finished massage school at Medix in Smyrna Ga in 2003/04 and they no longer offer the massage program at their school will that cause a problem for me trying to get licensed?
It shouldn’t cause a problem as long as you can get a hold of someone to send your records to FL. Let me know is have any other question or problems.
Ivy,
I was licensed in Fla. back in 1982 when I moved to Maryland I let my Fla. license expire because I was living and working here.
Now I plan on moving back to Fla. and would like to know what I have to do to be reinstated or license in Fla. I currently have a Maryland active license.
Please let me know as soon as possible.
Sincere thanks,
Pam
Hi Pamela,
The best recommendation I have for reinstatements is to call the board office. Reistatements can be tricky and the requirements vary. If you never took a licensing exam (the NCETMB or MBLEx), you likely will have to complete one of thoses (they no longer accept their own old FL licensing exam…)
They should be able to tell you what you need to do exactly.
You will also need to complete the 3 required courses available on this site (the Florida Endorsement Package).
Let me know what they tell you and I can help you with your next steps (licensing exam and required courses).
Ivy
Hello,
I am a LMT in the state of KY. I am wanting to relocate to the Jacksonville fla. Area. I am curious on how I go about getting a license in Florida. Can you direct me. The board is not returning my phone calls
Thanks
Hi Holly,
This is the page I direct most people to when they need to start. It has a chart and checklists as well as the courses you need.
http://www.advancedmassagetechniques.com/florida-massage-license/endorsement-package/
You can always email or call me if you have questions after reading through the info.
Hi, my name is Sunny. I am in California . I have California 500hrs massage therapy Licence and MBLex certificate. I will follow FL law to take 30 hrs classes online and take test and submit the score to FL board ( can I do that? Or I have to go to Fl schools? Any suggestion?)How can I get FL massage Licence ? What information or materials should I offer ? How much I have to pay? How do I pay for? Thanks a lot!
Thanks
Sunny
Hi Sunny, I sent you a couple emails. Just to remind you, this is the checklist for California Massage Therapists: http://www.advancedmassagetechniques.com/wp-content/uploads/florida-examination-checklist.pdf
Email me if you have any other questions, Sunny.
Hi Ivy,
I received my FL license in 1990 (Sarasota School of Massage) and decided to surrender it in early 2000 because of health issues and a different career focus. I’d like to reinstate my license now and I’m wondering if I have to take the licensing exam again. If so, is there some sort of refresher course I could take to get ready for the exam? And what other requirements would there be? Surely I don’t have go thru 500 hours once again.
Thank you! Look forward to hearing from you.
Cheryl
Good Morning, Cheryl!
The good news is that you do not need to take 500 hours again. If you only took the old FL State Massage Exam (when they had their own), you will either need to take the MBLEx, NCETMB, or NCETM. You will also need to take the three required licensing courses I have here (I have a license by examination checklist on that page, too). I do have a “refresher” for people like you that are getting back into massage, or those just graduating, and are going to take the MBLEx. You can read about that on my other site: Massage Exam Academy.
If have any other questions, please feel free to call me or email me.
Have a great day!
Ivy
If I have a PA Massage License do I need to take a National massage test to massage in Florida? If I go with the apprenticeship can I massage while under the apprenticeship? What do I do because the Massage school I went to closed down. How would I get my transcript?
Hi Kathy.
If you have finished 500 hours, I would not do the apprenticeship. It is over 1000 hours. You will still need to complete a exam if you go that route too. The Board accepts the NCETMB, NCETM, NESL, and the MBLEx. I have a site for those studying for the MBLEx (www.massageexamacademy.com).
As far as your school, that is a common problem I see others encounter. You need to find out who is the guardian of the records from your school. Try to contact the former administrator, or anyone that worked there. If not, contact the Board in PA and see if they have a copy in your old records, of if they know who has your schools records. It can be quite a search, but usually people are able to track someone down.
Let me know if you have other questions.
Ivy
hi! just curious…do u need to be a usa citizen or green card holder to apply for a license in FL?
I think it is possible to get a license. I would call the board and verify this. I believe. on the new fingerprinting instructions there is a questions about what to do if you do not have a SSN or are not a citizen. I will see what else I can find.
Hi, I have the same question that Jane did. I’m trying to figure-out about this but I can’t find any information.
I see nothing in the law and rules about other than Board Members must be citizens for at least 5 years prior to sitting on the board.
Hii ,im from belfast ireland im currently training in level 3 sports massage , im qualified in reflexology and thermal ariculaur care wen i finish my sports massage im hopen to move to florida r the usa and use my qualifications would i sit exams out there before i use my qualfications x
Hi Fiona, international transfers are out of my league. The best thing would be to email a school transcript to the FL board of massage and ask them what their next step would be for you. Best wishes!
Hi Ivy,
Thank you for your information on this site.
It’s really helpful
I need help finding a massage therapist to apprentice under.
I live in South East Florida.
I use to do massage therapy and require feedback on who I may go to for this next step into massage therapy and bodywork.
Linda
Hi Ivy! Excellent information! I have a different scenario. I actually graduated from a technical school in orlando to receive an associates degree in medical massage therapy, paid for the exam to get licensure and then never took the test. This was in 2005. I know I’ll need to get some study guide somewhere (not sure which) to refresh before I take the test, but am a little confused as to which test I need to take since its been a while, and if I can still take it since I didn’t so long ago. Any thoughts would be great! My education was in Orlando, FL.
Hi Linnette,
I actually have a different website that deals with preparing for the MBLEx, the entry level licensing exam you need to take. I took the MBLEx many years after going to school, so I “get” your situation.
http://www.massageexamacademy.com
After that, here is a checklist you can follow to get yourself licensed in FL.
http://www.advancedmassagetechniques.com/wp-content/uploads/florida-examination-checklist.pdf
If you have ANY questions along the way. You can always call or email me. Best wishes!
I was a massage therapist in NJ for 15 years (1992-2007). I did go to school for it, in PA and got my certification. NJ did not license at the time. I opted at the time (ignorantly I must say) to not take any National test. I have since gone on to become an LPN but would love to be back in massage therapy. The school that I attended is now defunct and I don’t know how to access any records showing that I did graduate (I lost those documents in a divorce/move). Is there any way I can take the MBLEX, kind of like testing out, to get my license?
thanks for your time
(i also left you a message on FB)
Hi Marci,
You will need to, somehow, find those records. Find the “keeper”, which is a person designated to hold school records. I know this can be a daunting task and requires a lot of phone calls, emails, and research ~ but most people can find someone with the old records. You can even contact NJ and PA to see if they have copies of your transcript. The FL BOM *may* accept a copy from them. You could call and ask.
Anyone can take the MBLEx. Any one. Any time.
However, you will still need the transcript to get your license.
Best wishes!
Hi, i am from az and recently moved to fl. I completed a 750hr massage program at a tech school and received my license the same year 2008. I let it expire last year… :( do i need to renew my licence in az before applying in fl? Or can i just take a test and the fl law courses,
hiv, and error classes?
You license does not need to be valid. You will just apply as an examination candidate instead of an endorsement candidate. Let me know if you have any other questions.
I am licensed in the state of CA. I’ve had my license for four years. Just wondering what florida requires to transfer from another state. Is there a course to refresh ones self before taking there test. thanks
Here is the best page for questions and information that I have: http://www.advancedmassagetechniques.com/florida-massage-license/endorsement-package/
Is it possible to do an apprenticeship if I went to a massage school but did not finish there? I was nearly done with school when I had to withdraw due to some health issues but as of now going back to school is not an option for me until I get my loans paid off which is taking some time. Would an apprenticeship be something I should even consider? If so do you happen to have a checklist as to how I would go about doing it?
Hi Stephanie,
I sent you an email too. Recently I heard the BOM was doing away with the apprenticeship option. You may want to contact the board directly to check on any recent rule changes.
Hi Ivy, I am currently licensed in nys and am relocating to tampa fl, what are the steps I need to take to be licensed in fl? -Ashlee
Hi Ashlee,
Here is a post specifically for nys licensees.
http://www.advancedmassagetechniques.com/massage-blog/transfer-license-new-york-to-florida/
Look that over and let me know if you have any other questions.
Hi Ivy,
I’m considering moving to Florida in the next few years and wonder what the best approach is to getting licensed. In Vermont, there is no licensing requirement. I’ve had a part time practice off and on since 2000. I’m certified in Deep Tissue massage (about 150 hours), Reiki, and a certified advanced practitioner in Thai Massage (I’ve trained in the US and Thailand) – probably not quite 500 hours. It looks like I’ll still have to an exam/CEUs.
Thanks for your help.
Scott
Hi Scott,
Florida requires a person graduate from a 500 hour program and complete an exam (like the MBLEx) before a license is issued. I know this is frustrating for people that have been in practice for so long. If you are considering a move in a few years, you may want to look into schools in your area where you can complete the required hours and get the exam done before then.
Hi Ivy,
I was wondering if there’s any massage school online? Because I’m a single mom. I was wondering if the Florida states accept online courses. And if there’s an online massage school how the credit compare to the 500 hours for the florida states.
Thank you of the help.
Hi Winne,
I know Florida requires that education must be brick and mortar, meaning online education is not accepted. I actually do not know of any states that accept online massage programs as part of their entry level hours. Many schools have part-time and weekend programs that may fit into your schedule. Those can be completed part-time sometimes within 6-12 months.
What about the us career institute in Colorado? They offer part online (425 hours) then 200 hours hands on in Colorado. And they are state approved. Would that suffice for FL requirements?
I get this question a few times a year. Here is what the rules say:
Florida requires 500 classroom hours {64B7-32.003 (1)(c)}-
64B7-32.001 Definitions.
(1) “Classroom hour” means no less than 50 minutes of any one clock hour during which the student participates in a learning activity of the school while in the physical presence of a faculty member.
I take that to mean that all the hours need to be in the physical presence of an instructor. I have not heard of anyone going through an online program and getting an FL license. I am not a lawyer and always suggest contacting the board if you want to investigate this option more.
Hello ive heard Florida has gotten a lot more strict about licensing do to some falsication of documents by schools there I’m coming from Michigan so I wanted to know what are the for licensing if I transfer
They are not a lot more strict. There was an issue with falsified documents. The board now requires transcripts come on copy proof paper. Other than that, the level 2 fingerprinting requirement is the only change. Visit the Florida massage license tab at the top of the page to view the endorsement course package and all of the requirements for obtaining a license in Florida.
My daughter is a licensed massage therapist in Texas. Moved to Florida. The process of getting her license in Florida is a nightmare! 8 weeks of the run around. Nothing the State of Texas school sends is good enough. Case and point the school here has sent ALL required info 3 times. NOW we have to buy counterfeit proof paper for the school to resend her verification AGAIN. NO one returns her calls, emails, letters or any other attempt! It is always something wrong, something missing, something not acceptable!! Really… Florida what is your problem?
Since January and the fingerprinting deadline, my inbox has had a complaint about the untimely return of phone calls from the BOM and just general slow turnaround on licenses being issued. I thought it would have been resolved by now, but it seems they are still having issues at the office. Many schools are not sending transcripts on the newly required copy-proof paper. Schools need to follow the directions on the form and comply with this rule, even though getting this paper may be inconvenient. Your daughter needs to be persistent and check in with the board office and her school ultimate make sure everyone is sending and receiving her documents. She will get there! Best wishes!
Hi Kayla, your teacher was correct there is no time limit in which you can take the MBLEX. Some people even take it before graduation and I know many who have taken it 20 years after graduating from massage school. There been no Florida law changes. Most likely all you need to do is apply to the board, take the MBLEX, and get fingerprinted. Let me know if you have any other questions.
I have taken my MBLEX. But over a year ago. I was wondering if there is a time limit to apply for my license. I didn’t get finger printed or anything.
There is no time limit. You may need to have the FSMTB resend your passing results to FL if it has been that long. You can call the board office and ask if they will need to be resent. It costs about $25 to resend them. You will also need to get fingerprinted. If your application to the board is over a year old, you likely will need to reapply too. Again, that would be something I would call and ask the board office about.
Thank you.
I need to know step by step what to do to take the National Exam for Massage Therapy in Florida. I graduated from Massage School in 2007, I took the National Exam but failed it. I would like to take it again and would like to know if I need to take any courses (FL Law, HIV/Aids, or CPR). Since it’s been a long time I reviewed over the pass few months my Massage material(books and practice exam) from school. Also, do I need to apply with the State of Florida Board of Massage Therapy first and then the NCBTMB? Thanks for your time.
Hi Vee,
The National Exam by the NCBTMB is no longer a testing option for FL licensure. You will now need to take the MBLEx.
As far as the 10 hour law, HIV, and Prevention of Medical error courses – you likely took the last two. But, around that time Florida changed the law requirement from 4 hours to 10 hours. You will need to consult your school or look at your transcript to see how many you took. If you did not take the 10 hour course, you will need to take that.
Here is the link to my step by step guide.
Typically I tell people to apply to FL first and get their file open so their MBLEx test scores have a place to go when the FSMTB sends your passing MBLEx score to Florida (you will choose FL as the state you want your scores sent to when you sign up to take the exam).
Dear Ivy Hultquist
I have been a LMT since 2003, but in 2010 I moved to Wisconsin and stay there for 6 years. Now I am back in Florida, found out my license is Null and Void, how can I reinstate my Massage Therapy License ?
Thank you so much for your help.
Hi Luiz,
It depends on what exam you took to get your FL license. Do you know which one you took? Was it the NCETMB or the old FL exam?
Ivy
To tell you the truth, it been a while , I do not remember, I do have a certificated from NCTMB (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) , does it helps ?
If it has been a while, it was likely the NCETMB. Call the NCBTMB and they should be able to tell you when you took the exam.
Hi, I’m from Brazil and just became a massage therapist. I was wondering if I’ll have to do any extra courses in the process of applying to become a LMT in Florida if my brazilian school transcript doesn’t meet their requirements? I mean, I did over 1.200 hours of school, but I didn’t learn kinesiology for example, and that topic is gonna be in the MBLEx. Do you know if I’ll have to do more schooling in Florida to match with the florida’s approved school transcripts ? even if I pass the MBLEx? Thank you so much for all your help here!
Its hard to say without seeing how your hours look against the minimum in each area compared to FL. Even with 1200, you still can be deficient in some areas. With an international transcript, it is best to contact the BOM first. Likely they will still have you apply first, then they will look over your official transcript.
Hi my name is pete, I went to school and complete the required hours to take my Florida state exam. However, I have finished school two years ago. how long have I got to take the test
Hi Pete, FL does not limit the time you can take the exam after completing massage school/training. Only a handful of states make you take the exam within a certain amount of time.
Hello Ivy ,
My name is Dannte. I’m a LMT fom Ohio who has recently recieved my license to practice in South Carolina. I’m relocating to Fort Mill , SC for a therapist position and plan on moving to Florida in five years. What is the best plan of action for me to go about in recieving my Florida State license. Any information will be appreciated. Thank you.
Anytime you are ready to begin the process, visit this page and see which requirements you need to complete to get your FL license.
https://www.advancedmassagetechniques.com/florida-massage-license/endorsement-package/
Just remember, laws can change. So if you wait, requirements may change and you may have a harder time getting a FL license. If you get it now and keep it valid for the next 5 years, you will not have anything to do when you do move. Yes, it will cost money to keep it valid, but it might be worth it. Just my opinion.
I HAVE NOT HAD CLASSES OF ANY SORT BUT I WANT TO START IN THIS PRACTICE .. IM IN JACKSONVILLE FLORIDA AND WAS WONDERING IF YOU COULD POINT ME IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION TO AT LEAST STARTED THE 500HRS AND TRAINING.
Start calling and visiting schools in your areas. Talk to other local massage therapists, preferably successful ones, to see which schools they recommend for preparing them for their careers.
Hi, I took an online course amd completed with my certification. Does Florida allow online?
I passed with a 95% and 4.0 gpa i thought i seen a comment that said fl does not acrept online and i am hoping i read it wrong because i have been so excited and preparing myself for my license.
Hi Laura,
I do get this question about online education from time to time. I am not currently aware of any state that licenses massage therapists and allows/accepts a massage education that is completed entirely online. Typically the 500-1000 hour intial programs needed to get licensed to be in the physical presence of an instructor.
I graduated Jan 2016 with 4.0 and 820 hours atcommunity care college in tulsa, ok. I did not take the mblex, it is not required here. I am moving to flordia in 6 months. I have my transcript, what else do I need?
Hi Donna,
Sorry about my delayed response. We have been away for Christmas.
All applicants must pass a board approved exam. The MBLEx is currently the only FL board approved exam that is still given.
Here is the examination candidate checklist for you to follow – https://21qr1i1wt67w353bpm2e12r2-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/florida-examination-checklist.pdf
Your school will need to send your transcript. The board office will not accept it from you.
Please let me know if you have other questions after looking it over.
Ivy
My LMT expired on 08/30/09. I did not renew for many personal reasons at the time. Now I’m ready to get my lmt back and found out is in null status. I’m confused as to what steps I take to get it back… I’m wondering how can I get my lmt back? I need to know step by step how to get my lmt back. Can you please tell me all the steps I must do? I will really appreciate it. I look forward to your respond. If you can please respond to me as soon as this week.
My LMT expired on 08/30/09. I did not renew for many personal reasons at the time. Now I’m ready to get my lmt back and found out is in null status. I’m confused as to what steps I take to get it back… I’m wondering how can I get my lmt back? I need to know step by step how to get my lmt back. Can you please tell me all the steps I must do? I will really appreciate it. I look forward to your respond. If you can please respond to me as soon as this week.
Hi Tanai,
Do you know which exam you took (NCETMB, NCETM, NESL, or old FL exam). If you let me know what that is, I can help you get started.
I believe it was NCETMB
Hello Ivy,
I finish massage school back in 2010 from Florida College of Natural Health, Miatland Fl.
I as was moving out of country I did not take the state board. What will i have to do in order to take the exam and become a LMT?
Yes. It is required by all applicants.
Are Florida Massage Apprentices allowed to earn money durri ng their training program?
Here is what Florida law says:
480.033 Definitions., F.S.
(4) “Massage therapist” means a person licensed as required by this act, who administers massage for compensation.
(5) “Apprentice” means a person approved by the board to study massage under the instruction of a licensed massage therapist.
An apprentice is not a “massage therapist”. It does not say an apprentice can administer massage for compensation. Again, this is my opinion. I would contact the board of massage office if you would like more clarification.
How do I find out which test I took in jan 1991? I know I went to orlando and took a huge professional test, and also had a skills test. I have held my Florida license since that time in good standing, but recently am applying for lic in California … there is a list of tests and I have no idea which one I took?
Contact the Florida Board of Massage. You likely took the Florida State Exam, but possibly the NCETMB. You can also contact the NCETMB to see if they have a record of you taking an exam.
Hi Ivy
Sou do Brasil, e faço curso de massagem no SENAC.
apos a pratica de 500 h a Florida aceitaria meu curso daqui para obter minha licença?
Hello! All international transcripts would need to be translated and evaluated by Florida. I cannot make the determination for you. Sorry!
Olá! Todas as transcrições internacionais precisariam ser traduzidas e avaliadas pela Flórida. Eu não posso fazer a determinação para você. Desculpa!
Message –
I’m from Brazil, and I take amassage at SENAC. After the practice of 500 hours would Florida accept my course from here to obtain my license?
Hi Ivy ,
My name is Sophia and I’m located out of the US. I am a Greek resident and am interested in working in the State of Florida. I have already studied Assistant Physiotherapist in Greece. My certificate hours are 1217 and I would like to see if my therapist schooling will be approved by the Department of Education or an equivalent licensing authority. I have lots of questions about the 500 Hour course as well. As i contact with the BMT office i have first to apply and pay the fees and then i will know if they will accept me! Who knows something about foreign students???
Hi Sophia!
The best thing you can do if you want a massage license is to apply to the board and have your transcript translated and evaluated. If you meet the requirements, you will need to take a 10 hour law course, complete a background check, and pass the MBLEx.
Hello Ivy,
I’m a Certified massage therapist in New Jersey, (completed 750 hours) I graduated in 2005, and was working for more than 5 years in a spa, by then they didn’t required a license, then I stopped doing that, years passed and I moved to Florida, now I would like to start doing my massage therapy job again but I need to get my FL license, I don’t know what to do or what is the first step, please let me know, and what test do I need to take, thank you very much for your help.
Here is my page with all of the information you need – https://www.advancedmassagetechniques.com/florida-massage-license/endorsement-package/
Look it over and let me know if you have questions.
Good blog Ivy ! Thankyou for sharing! It can be confusing for massage therapists moving from another state. I don’t know why there’s no reciprocity?
I have applied for my Florida Massage License and they have everything they need except for verification of my school. I went to a California school and the state has sent verification of my school to FL three times via USPS. Legally they can not (for what ever reason) Fax to Florida. So I am waiting, after 4 months for them to get to there mail? Have you heard any others with this issue. I have called at least once a month and haven’t got any help from them. I need to work and don’t know what to do. Any advise would help.
Thank you,
Casey
Hi Casey,
I personally had to have my transcripts sent twice. So I understand the frustration of 3x. Are they (I assume CAMTC) able to send it certified mail so they know it arrives. I know CAMTC can be slow sometimes, so I want to know who is dropping the ball here: FL or CA. I would contact FL and ask what they recommend doing to help you resolve this in the fastest way possible. They have dealt with CA plenty that they should know of a way to get around this delay. If all else fails… Ask if you can apply by examination and just send your school transcript and MBLEx scores if CA is not getting your state verfication (which has your schooling and exam passage on it).
Since you bought the 10 hour law course from me, please feel free to contact me anytime. My number to text and email are on the website.
I did apply by exam, and passed the MBLex, but FL said they need verification from the California Dep. of Ed for my school or from CAMTC. Unfortunately my school is old and closed down but was legitimate and accredited when I was a student. CAMTC said they can’t provide a tracking number, they said they verified the address with FL, they stated they have sent it three times, and that I need to be patient and let FL process thier mail. I found this odd because if they know it’s going to the write address why do they keep sending it? If they were completely sure they sent it, why keep sending it?
Should I just see if they will accept the transcripts from the school owner that she has one file? Or will they not accept it if there isn’t some sort of third party verifying the schools accredidation? Thanks for getting back to me so quickly!
-Casey
It is hard to say who is dropping the ball here. My suggestion is to call the FL board of massage and explain the situation and see what suggestions they have for you.
Let me know what you find out.
Ivy
Hi, my wife is graduating in two weeks from massage therapy school in Orlando, Florida and is eager to start working. Once she passes the exam and applies for the license does she have to wait until she has a physical copy of the license, or can she start working once she submits for it? I’m reading different things. Thanks
A license needs to be posted in a massage establishment with a photo. But there is a delay in printing licenses (or was a delay) – https://floridasmassagetherapy.gov/latest-news/temporary-delay-in-printing-of-licenses/
I would call the massage board and ask them just to be sure and if the printing delay will affect her.
Hi Ivy I graduated from a massage school in Indiana ( American Certified Massage School) in 2005 and only received a certificate of 1,000 hours completion. I don’t believe a license was required to practice back then.
I moved to Florida and wanted to obtain a license. So do I take the 10 hour course and then the MBLEx exam?
All I have from the massage school is certificates. Then after these 2 completions can I apply?
Thanks!
Hi Bec!
Indiana just recently started to require the MBLEx, so it is quite possible you did not take it.
I have a page on my newer Florida website that should help you with all these questions. It is a little more updated than this older website of mine -https://www.floridamassage.com/license/
In general, I usually recommend people get the MBLEx done and out of the way first. But, if you are looking for something to do, you can take the 10-hour laws and rules course anytime.
I also have a website for MBLEx prep. I have many people looking for a resource when moving to Florida. It has been used by many people that have been out of school for many years. http://www.massageexamacademy.com. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Hello. I am a Massage therapist in quebec canada. I have the required hours of training in a quebec school. What would i need to do to get certified in florida? My education is at Kine Concept Montreal school.
I graduated in 2005/2006.
Hi Jennifer! I have a different website that focuses on Florida licenses since writing this. This article is specifically for Canadian massage therapist or RMTS – https://www.floridamassage.com/canadian/
Hope this helps!
Ivy
I went to school in2010 I passed my mblex but I never applied for license. What would I need to do to get certified no
You should be able to apply and finish up the remaining requirements (background check, have MBLEx scores and transcript sent to board office). If you took 4 hours of FL law and rules, you may need to take a 10 hour course (available on http://www.floridamassage.com). It changed from 4 to 10 hours right around that time.
Hi. I have a friend who is a licensed esthetician. She wants to start a day spa in FL (Palm Beach County). I need to know if she can offer massage services in her business on top of her other services. Or would she have to hire a LMT and put them on her staff to allow that? Thanks!
Hi John! This page should clear this question up about her facial specialist license- https://floridasmassagetherapy.gov/help-center/can-a-cosmetologist-barber-or-full-specialist-practice-massage-therapy/
Hi Ivy, maybe you can lead me in the right direction.
I passed my exam and became certified back in 2007. Worked as an LMT until 2010 when I had to move states. My license expired before I moved back to Florida. Now that I am back I am not sure how to go about getting my license back. So any information would help! Thanks!
In most cases, you will just apply again and get a new license number. I would contact the Florida massage board for some guidance. You may need 10 hours of laws and rules, you may not. You went to school right around the time they changed it from 4 to 10. They should be able to help you get started with your new application requirements. I do not believe you would need to take a board exam, but you most definitely would need a background check.
Thank you so much for getting back to me! I will start with the board and hope for the best! Thanks again!
Hi Ivy Hultquist: Is there any option to work as massage therapist without a license from MOH? in other words, what are the similar license that may have to to be eligible to work as massage therapist.
Hi Joho,
There are licenses that somewhat overlap, physical therapy being the most common one. Cosmetology licenses are licensed to do some massage of certain areas (nail techs can do hands and feet, estheticians can do the face). I am sure there are others that overlap too, but require more education than a massage therapy license would in most cases.
I am a board certified family physician and have a medical license in the state of Florida and Maryland. Can I legally perform massage on clients without a massage therapy license?
I believe the medical board is Chapter 458. All exemptions for massage can be found here in Chapter 480 – http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0400-0499/0480/Sections/0480.034.html