How to become a massage therapist in Florida
Florida massage therapists are licensed by the Florida Board of Massage Therapy (Department of Health). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Florida, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a massage therapist in Florida?
- At least 18 or a high school diploma or equivalency
- 500 clock hours at a board-approved massage school
- Pass the MBLEx (or a retired NCBTMB exam taken earlier)
- 10-hour Florida Laws and Rules course
- Livescan background screening
Florida massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. A state license is required. HB 975 (2024) added electronic fingerprinting for this profession. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Florida Board of Massage Therapy (Department of Health) |
| License name | Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) |
| Education or training | A course of study of 500 or more clock hours at a board-approved massage school, plus a 10-hour Florida Laws and Rules course. |
| Exam | Pass the MBLEx; NCETM, NCETMB or NESL taken before retirement are also accepted. |
| License term | Two years (biennial renewal). |
| Continuing education | 24 hours each renewal after the first, including medical errors and human trafficking courses. |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee (non-refundable) | $50.00 |
|---|---|
| Initial licensing fee | $100.00 |
| Unlicensed activity fee | $5.00 |
| Renewal, active to active (on time) | $105.00 |
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 Florida
- Complete 500 hours at a board-approved school
- Take the 10-hour Florida Laws and Rules course
- Pass the MBLEx
- Get Livescan fingerprints
- Apply online and pay $155
- Have transcripts and scores sent to the Board
Apply on the official Florida site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Florida?
- Search the name or license number on the official Florida 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.