How to become a massage therapist in Tennessee
Tennessee massage therapists are licensed by the Tennessee Massage Licensure Board (Department of Health). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Tennessee, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a massage therapist in Tennessee?
- Completed a 650-hour approved massage curriculum
- Passed the MBLEx or NCBTMB exam
- New criminal background check through the state vendor
Tennessee massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. Tennessee licenses massage therapists through the Massage Licensure Board. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Tennessee Massage Licensure Board (Department of Health) |
| License name | Licensed Massage Therapist |
| Education or training | At least 650 hours from a school approved by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission or Board of Regents, including 200 hours sciences, 300 hours massage theory, 125 hours allied modalities, 20 hours ethics and 5 hours Tennessee massage law. |
| Exam | MBLEx or the NCBTMB exam, verified directly to the board. |
| Continuing education | 24 hours of board-approved CE every two calendar years, including 2 hours on Tennessee statutes and rules. |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee (non-refundable) | $280.00 |
|---|
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 Tennessee
- Complete a 650-hour approved massage program
- Pass the MBLEx or NCBTMB exam
- Get a criminal background check through the state vendor (OCA# 2680)
- Submit the application, transcripts and $280 fee
- Renew online up to 45 days before expiration
Apply on the official Tennessee site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Tennessee?
- Ask for the license number and confirm it with the Tennessee Massage Licensure Board (Department of Health).
- 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.