How to become a massage therapist in Delaware
Delaware massage therapists are licensed by the Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork (Division of Professional Regulation). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Delaware, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a massage therapist in Delaware?
- At least 18 years old
- 500 hours (started before July 1, 2024) or 625 hours (started on or after July 1, 2024) of supervised in-class study
- Pass an exam with scores sent from FSMTB or NCBTMB
- Current in-person CPR certification
- Delaware and FBI criminal background check
Delaware massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. A state license is required. HB 386 (2024) raised education from 500 to 625 hours for students starting on or after July 1, 2024. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork (Division of Professional Regulation) |
| License name | Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) |
| Education or training | 625 hours of supervised in-class study for students who began on or after July 1, 2024 (100 A&P, 300 technique and theory, 200 electives, 25 ethics/law/contraindications); 500 hours for those who began earlier. |
| Exam | Pass the MBLEx or an NCBTMB exam, with official scores sent directly to the Board. |
| License term | Two years; licenses expire August 31 of even-numbered years. |
How much does it cost?
| Licensed Massage Therapist application | $175 |
|---|---|
| Upgrade from active CMT to LMT | $55 |
| Verification of licensure | $35 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a massage therapist in Delaware
- Complete a 625-hour approved program
- Pass the MBLEx
- Get in-person CPR certification
- Complete the Delaware/FBI fingerprint background check
- Apply in DELPROS and pay the $175 fee
- Have transcript and exam scores sent to the Board
Apply on the official Delaware site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Delaware?
- Search the name or license number on the official Delaware 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.