Massage Therapist / South Carolina
2026 data South Carolina board official source

South Carolina Massage Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Provides therapeutic massage to relieve pain and reduce stress.

What the South Carolina data shows for Massage Therapists

To practice as a massage therapist in South Carolina, the state licensing board requires 475 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 South Carolina's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Massage Therapy School".

Upfront cost is $75, with renewal running $45 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 South Carolina

Education / Training Hours
Massage Therapy School
475 hours
Exam Requirement
MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$75
Renewal Fee
$45
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 South Carolina licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with South Carolina licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Massage Therapist in South Carolina? ▼
South Carolina requires 475 education/training hours, passing an exam (MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam)), and an initial fee of $75. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Massage Therapist in South Carolina? ▼
To become a licensed massage therapist in South Carolina, you must meet the state's requirements including 475 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the South Carolina licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to South Carolina from another state? ▼
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for massage therapists: Varies by state — check with state board. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the South Carolina licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does South Carolina require a background check for Massage Therapist licensing? ▼
South Carolina 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 South Carolina? ▼
Licensed massage therapists in South Carolina must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $45.

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.