How to become a massage therapist in Rhode Island
Rhode Island massage therapists are licensed by the Rhode Island Department of Health, Board of Massage Therapy. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island law and official forms. Confirm them on the official page before you apply.
Who can become a massage therapist in Rhode Island?
- Valid ID
- Official transcript of required massage education
- Passing score on the MBLEx or another approved national exam
- Current CPR certificate
Rhode Island massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. Rhode Island licenses massage therapists through the Department of Health. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Rhode Island Department of Health, Board of Massage Therapy |
| License name | Massage Therapist |
| Education or training | For applications filed on or after January 1, 2026: official transcript showing 800 hours of in-class, hands-on coursework and clinical work (first-ever license). |
| Exam | MBLEx or another national exam approved by the Department, with scores sent directly from the exam agency. |
| License term | All massage therapist licenses expire yearly on June 30. |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee (includes first license to next expiration) | $65.00 |
|---|---|
| Optional license certificate | $30.00 |
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 Rhode Island
- Complete an 800-hour massage program
- Pass the MBLEx or another approved exam
- Get CPR certified
- Submit the application with ID, transcript, CPR card and the $65 fee
- Have exam scores sent directly to the Department
- Renew every year by June 30
Apply on the official Rhode Island site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Rhode Island?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Rhode Island Department of Health, Board of Massage Therapy.
- 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.