Massage Therapist / Louisiana
2026 data Louisiana board official source

Louisiana Massage Therapist License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Provides therapeutic massage to relieve pain and reduce stress.

What the Louisiana data shows for Massage Therapists

Louisiana sets the entry bar for massage therapists at 819 training hours and a passing score on MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam). A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Louisiana's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Massage Therapy School".

Budget $157 to get started, plus $81 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in Louisiana

Education / Training Hours
Massage Therapy School
819 hours
Exam Requirement
MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$157
Renewal Fee
$81
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Louisiana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Massage Therapist in Louisiana?
Louisiana's requirements cover 819 hours of education or training, the MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam) exam, and an initial fee of $157. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Massage Therapist in Louisiana?
Louisiana licenses massage therapists who complete its requirements (819 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Louisiana licensing board.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to Louisiana from another state?
Massage Therapist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Varies by state — check with state board. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Louisiana licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Louisiana require a background check for Massage Therapist licensing?
Louisiana does require a background check before issuing a massage therapist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Massage Therapist in Louisiana?
Licensed massage therapists in Louisiana must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $81.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites