Massage Therapist / New York
2026 data New York board official source

New York Massage Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Provides therapeutic massage to relieve pain and reduce stress.

What the New York data shows for Massage Therapists

Becoming a licensed massage therapist in New York means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 725 training hours, a passing score on MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam), plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. New York regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Massage Therapy School".

Upfront cost is $134, with renewal running $71 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

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

Licensing Requirements in New York

Education / Training Hours
Massage Therapy School
725 hours
Exam Requirement
MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$134
Renewal Fee
$71
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Massage Therapist All New York licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Massage Therapist in New York? ▼
In New York, the license path calls for 725 education/training hours, a passing score on MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam), and a $134 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Massage Therapist in New York? ▼
Certification as a massage therapist in New York means clearing the state's checklist: 725 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The New York licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to New York 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 New York licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does New York require a background check for Massage Therapist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the massage therapist licensing process in New York. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Massage Therapist in New York? ▼
To stay licensed as a massage therapist in New York, plan on 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $71.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.