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

South Carolina Massage Therapist License Requirements

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

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 the MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam) examination. 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 training as "Massage Therapy School".

Upfront cost is $75, with renewal running $45 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 is available: Varies by state — check with state board. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

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
0

License Reciprocity

Varies by state — check with state board

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?
South Carolina has reciprocity provisions: Varies by state — check with state board. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the South Carolina licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does South Carolina require a background check for Massage Therapist licensing?
Yes, South Carolina requires a criminal background check as part of the massage therapist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by 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.

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

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