Education and Testing

• 1). Find a school that not only meets your expectations as far as massage training, but also meets the state requirements for massage therapists where you live. If there are no state minimums as far as number of hours in school, check as well with the local authorities. If you are in one of the few states with no massage regulation at all, then find a school that teaches massage modalities you want to learn. Cost can be a factor, so when possible, find a school recognized by the Department of Education. The grants and tuition assistance available may make massage school affordable.
  
  
• 2). Apply for the state or local exam. In most every area where a license is required for massage therapy, some sort of test is given. A written exam will challenge your knowledge of the human body and massage techniques, while a practical exam will test your ability to perform massage safely. Most states or cities will require one or the other, but there are some states that require both. A background check may also be performed to ensure you do not have a criminal record. Both the testing and the background check will require a fee, which varies from municipality to municipality or from state to state. When you submit your application, you may be required to submit supporting documents such as a transcript and diploma from an accredited massage school. Your school registrar will supply these for you.
  
  
• 3). Prepare for and pass the required exam. This could mean weeks of continued study prior to the exam date. In some areas, you will receive a temporary license, giving you the chance to work and earn money while you study and take your exam. Take the opportunity to work on massage clients if it is available, as practical experience will help you regardless of what type of exam you are facing. Often, a study guide will be given telling you the areas of testing. Study should include anatomy and physiology, specifically muscles and bones. Tests will ask questions regarding specific modalities of massage and whether a particular massage technique is or is not appropriate.