How to become a massage therapist in Colorado
Colorado massage therapists are licensed by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Professions and Occupations, Office of Massage Therapy Licensure. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Colorado, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Part of the state's website could not be reached when we checked, so some details come from Colorado law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a massage therapist in Colorado?
- At least 18 years old
- 650 hours from an approved massage school
- Pass the MBLEx, NCETMB, NCETM or another Director-approved exam
- State and federal fingerprint background check
- Attest to professional liability insurance
- Complete the Healthcare Professions Profile
Colorado massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. A state license is required from DORA's Office of Massage Therapy Licensure. SB24-201 raised the minimum education from 500 to 650 hours. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Professions and Occupations, Office of Massage Therapy Licensure |
| License name | Massage Therapist (MT) |
| Education or training | A minimum of 650 hours of coursework and clinical work at an approved school (raised from 500 by SB24-201). |
| Exam | Pass the MBLEx, NCETMB, NCETM or another exam approved by the Director. |
| Insurance or bond | Professional liability insurance of at least $50,000 per occurrence and $300,000 annual aggregate is required before practicing. |
| License term | Licenses expire December 31 of even-numbered years (two-year cycle). |
Steps to become a massage therapist in Colorado
- Complete a 650-hour program at an approved school
- Pass the MBLEx
- Get fingerprinted through a CBI-approved vendor
- Apply online through DPO Online Services and pay the fee
- Attest to liability insurance and complete the Healthcare Professions Profile
Apply on the official Colorado site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Colorado?
- Search the name or license number on the official Colorado massage therapist license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.