How to become a massage therapist in South Carolina
South Carolina massage therapists are licensed by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR), Board of Massage Therapy. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in South Carolina, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a massage therapist in South Carolina?
- At least 18
- High school diploma or GED
- Completed approved massage school
- Passed MBLEx or NCE
- Speak English or show proficiency
- Proof of lawful presence
- State and national fingerprint background check
South Carolina massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. South Carolina licenses massage therapists through LLR's Board of Massage Therapy. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR), Board of Massage Therapy |
| License name | Licensed Massage Therapist |
| Education or training | 650 hours at an approved massage therapy school for graduates on or after May 26, 2024 (500-hour transcripts accepted for those who finished school before that date). |
| Exam | FSMTB MBLEx (or NCE), with a score report showing the numeric score. |
| License term | Biennial (every two years). |
| Continuing education | 12 hours of massage CE per renewal starting with the second renewal cycle, reported to CE Broker. |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee | $210.00 |
|---|
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 South Carolina
- Complete a 650-hour approved massage program
- Pass the MBLEx
- Complete state and national fingerprint background checks
- Apply online with ID, Social Security card, photo, diploma/GED and score report
- Pay the $210 application fee
- Renew every two years
Apply on the official South Carolina site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in South Carolina?
- Search the name or license number on the official South Carolina 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.