How do I become a massage therapist in NC?
Sarah Smith
Updated on September 04, 2026
Also know, how do I transfer my massage license to NC?
If you're ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in North Carolina, you must register with the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. The registration fee is $20. Once you are registered, you must receive licensure by the Board.
Secondly, do you need a massage license in North Carolina? Massage therapists practicing in North Carolina must have a massage license before practicing in this state. Massage therapy licenses are issued by the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy (BMBT).
Secondly, how long does it take to become a licensed massage therapist?
You could take a Level 3 Diploma in Massage or Complementary Therapies. The Council for Soft Tissue Therapies (GCMT) is the governing body for massage therapy, and it sets the standards for the profession. GCMT suggest you take a course that lasts at least 6 months full time, or 12 months part time.
What is a massage therapist salary?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports an average annual salary of nearly $46,000, though this number might be a bit misleading. According to the American Massage Therapy Association's (AMTA) 2019 Research Report, massage therapists earned an average annual income of $25,810 per year.
How long does it take to become a massage therapist in NC?
The North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy requires potential licensees to complete at least 500 hours at a board approved massage therapy school. They must also obtain a passing score on a national certification examination from the NCETM/TMB, MBLEx or NCCAOM.How old do you have to be to get a massage in NC?
Minors and MassageAccording to North Carolina law, all minors under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian in the massage room. All minors 16 to 18 must have parental consent.What is a LMBT license?
North Carolina's Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapists (LMBTs) are credentialed on the basis of massage therapy education, background screening, and an examination process.What is a LMBT?
Definition. LMBT. Licensed Massage & Bodywork Therapist.Do you need a license to practice reflexology in NC?
Unregulated areas of bodywork that do not require a license include reflexology, foot soaks or foot spas, and Reiki or energy work. The newly passed Senate Bill 548 charges NC Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy with coming up with an establishment license to continue to try and combat human trafficking.Where can I get my massage license?
Contact your county clerk or the Department of Licenses and Inspections to learn what is required for massage therapy licensing. Some states require aspiring massage therapists to attend state-approved schools for training.Can I get my massage therapy license online?
Online Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) CertificationTo become a licensed massage therapist, you can enroll in a post-secondary certification program online. You will need a high school diploma or GED to apply for admission into the program.Can a felon be a massage therapist?
A criminal history will not necessarily disqualify a massage therapy candidate. An individual who has been disqualified by conviction of prostitution or other sexually related crime during the previous five years or a crime of moral turpitude may be disqualified. In any case, full disclosure must be made.What is LMT certification?
Most states regulate the practice of massage therapy. Titles for those who hold a massage therapy license vary, but Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) is a common designation.Can you make good money as a massage therapist?
Yes, Massage Therapists make decent money working at a spa. According to the current Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for massage therapists is $39,860 per year.What classes are required for massage therapy?
These programs typically require a high school diploma, but it's also helpful to prepare for a massage therapy career by taking these college courses.- Anatomy and Physiology. A massage therapist needs to know how the body is structured and how it works.
- Clinical Psychology.
- Medical Terminology.
- Business Ethics.
How can I get my massage therapy license fast?
Five Steps to Becoming a Licensed Massage Therapist- Step 1 Complete a massage therapy program.
- Step 2 Complete practical requirements.
- Step 3 Pass the licensing examination.
- Step 4 Apply for a state license.
- Step 5 Complete a certification.
What is the best massage therapy school?
Most Popular Schools for Massage Therapy/Therapeutic Massage Major & Degree Program
| Rank | School Name | Students |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | National Holistic Institute | 710 |
| 2 | Praxis Institute | 269 |
| 3 | Dayton School of Medical Massage | 235 |
| 4 | Cortiva Institute-Las Vegas | 223 |
How do I become a LMT?
- Step 1: Earn a Certificate or Diploma in Massage Therapy. Students should choose a program that's recognized by their state's licensing board.
- Step 2: Take an Approved National Examination in Massage Therapy.
- Step 3: Apply for State Licensure.
- Step 4: Meet Continuing Education Requirements.
Where can I study massage therapy?
Where to study: Massage Therapy- Brock University (St.
- Centennial College (Toronto) Massage therapy: $4,315/year.
- Fanshawe College (London) Massage therapy: $1,875/term (plus fees).
- Georgian College (Barrie) Massage therapy: $3,602.71-$5,167.06year.
- Humber College (Toronto) Massage therapy: $4,457.36/year.