How to become a massage therapist in Oklahoma
Oklahoma massage therapists are licensed by the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Oklahoma, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a massage therapist in Oklahoma?
- At least 18 years old
- Affidavit of lawful presence
- At least 500 hours of formal education at a state-licensed massage school
- Pass the MBLEx or NCBTMB exam
- Current professional liability insurance
- Current OSBI background check, including sex offender and Mary Rippy violent offender registries
Oklahoma massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. Oklahoma requires a state license under the Massage Therapy Practice Act (SB 687, 2016). Licenses have been required since May 1, 2017. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering |
| License name | Massage Therapy License |
| Education or training | At least 500 hours of formal education in a massage therapy school (out-of-state education is treated as reciprocity). |
| Exam | Pass the FSMTB MBLEx or the NCBTMB exam. |
| Insurance or bond | Applicants must show current professional liability insurance for practice as a massage therapist. |
| License term | Two years. |
| Continuing education | Five CEUs per year of the license. |
How much does it cost?
| Application/initial license (two years) | $100 |
|---|---|
| Renewal (two years) | $100 |
| Out-of-state education (reciprocity) add-on | $15 |
| Late penalty | $10.00 |
| Duplicate license | $10.00 |
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 Oklahoma
- Complete 500 hours at a state-licensed massage school
- Pass the MBLEx
- Get professional liability insurance and a current OSBI background check
- Submit the board application with lawful presence affidavit, ID and transcript
- Pay the $100 fee
Apply on the official Oklahoma site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Oklahoma?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering.
- 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.