Massage Therapist / Ohio
2026 data Ohio board official source

Ohio Massage Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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Provides therapeutic massage to relieve pain and reduce stress.

What the Ohio data shows for Massage Therapists

To practice as a massage therapist in Ohio, the state licensing board requires 674 documented education or training hours, a passing score on MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam). A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Ohio's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Massage Therapy School".

Budget $122 to get started, plus $66 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 24 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

On reciprocity, massage therapists should know: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in Ohio

Education / Training Hours
Massage Therapy School
674 hours
Exam Requirement
MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$122
Renewal Fee
$66
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 Ohio licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Ohio licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Massage Therapist in Ohio? ▼
Ohio requires 674 education/training hours, passing an exam (MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam)), and an initial fee of $122. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Massage Therapist in Ohio? ▼
Certification as a massage therapist in Ohio means clearing the state's checklist: 674 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Ohio licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to Ohio from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for massage therapists nationally works like this: Varies by state — check with state board. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Ohio. Verify the specifics with the Ohio licensing board.
Does Ohio require a background check for Massage Therapist licensing? ▼
Ohio 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 Ohio? ▼
Licensed massage therapists in Ohio must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $66.

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.