How to become a massage therapist in Montana
Montana massage therapists are licensed by the Montana Board of Massage Therapy (Department of Labor and Industry). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Montana, 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 Montana law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a massage therapist in Montana?
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a massage therapy program of at least 500 hours
- Passing score on the MBLEx, NCETMB, NESL, NCETM or an equivalent state exam
Montana massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. Montana requires a state license to practice massage therapy. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Montana Board of Massage Therapy (Department of Labor and Industry) |
| License name | Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) |
| Education or training | At least 500 hours of study meeting curriculum guidelines of an NCCA-accredited program or equivalent. |
| Exam | Pass the MBLEx (or NCETMB, NESL, NCETM, or an equivalent state exam), with scores sent directly to the board. |
| License term | Annual renewal per board rules; the 2026 renewal window opened July 3, 2026, with late fees after August 31. |
| Continuing education | 12 continuing education credits every two years, reported on even-numbered-year renewals (ARM 24.155.801, rules as of 2021). |
How much does it cost?
| Application by examination | $140.00 |
|---|---|
| Annual license renewal (ARM 24.155.401, rules as of 2021) | $90 |
| Added fee on new licenses and renewals (HB 227, from July 1, 2025) | $5.00 |
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 Montana
- Finish a massage program of at least 500 hours
- Pass the MBLEx or another approved exam
- Have your school send transcripts and the testing body send your scores to the board
- Apply online through the state licensing portal and pay the $140 fee
- Wait about 30 days for a routine application to be processed
Apply on the official Montana site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Montana?
- Search the name or license number on the official Montana 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.