How to become a massage therapist in Maine
Maine massage therapists are licensed by the Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Massage Therapy Licensure Program. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Maine, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a massage therapist in Maine?
- Be 18 or older
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Pass an NCBTMB or FSMTB exam, or complete a department-approved course of 500 or more hours
- State Police criminal background check
Maine massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. Maine requires a state massage therapist license. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Massage Therapy Licensure Program |
| License name | Massage Therapist |
| Education or training | Either pass an approved exam or complete a department-approved course of 500 or more hours (32 M.R.S. §14306-D). |
| Exam | Pass an exam from NCBTMB or FSMTB (MBLEx) or another approved organization, unless qualifying through a 500-hour approved course. |
| License term | Annual, on the anniversary date of the original license. |
| Continuing education | The licensing page lists no continuing education requirement; the law lets the department set one by rule. |
How much does it cost?
| License | $40.00 |
|---|---|
| State Police criminal background check | $21.00 |
| Annual renewal | $40.00 |
| Late renewal | $50 |
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 Maine
- Complete a 500-hour approved program or pass the MBLEx
- Submit the online application with supporting documents
- Pay the $40 license fee and $21 background check fee
- Renew each year on your license anniversary
Apply on the official Maine site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Maine?
- Search the name or license number on the official Maine 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.