How to become a massage therapist in North Dakota
North Dakota massage therapists are licensed by the North Dakota Board of Massage Therapy. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in North Dakota, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a massage therapist in North Dakota?
- At least 18 years old
- Completion of an approved massage therapy program (750 instructional hours)
- Pass the MBLEx or an NCBTMB exam
- Statewide and nationwide criminal history record check
North Dakota massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. North Dakota requires a state license. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | North Dakota Board of Massage Therapy |
| License name | Licensed Massage Therapist |
| Education or training | An approved massage therapy education program of 750 instructional hours. |
| Exam | Pass the MBLEx or an NCBTMB exam (NCETM/NCETMB), with scores sent directly to the board. |
| License term | Every 2 years; CE and renewal due by February 28 of odd or even years, depending on license number. |
| Continuing education | 24 hours every two years, including 12 classroom hands-on hours; up to 50% may be remote, and long-practicing licensees need fewer hours. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial license application | $150 |
|---|---|
| Renewal (statutory maximum) | two hundred dollars or a lesser amount established by the board |
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 North Dakota
- Complete a 750-hour approved massage program
- Pass the MBLEx
- Apply online and pay the $150 fee
- Have your school send a transcript and affidavit, and the testing body send your scores
- Complete the criminal history record check
- Allow up to 3 months for review
Apply on the official North Dakota site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in North Dakota?
- Search the name or license number on the official North Dakota 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.