How to become a massage therapist in Texas
Texas massage therapists are licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Texas, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a massage therapist in Texas?
- Completed at least 500 hours of approved massage coursework
- Passed the required exams
- National fingerprint criminal history review
Texas massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. Texas licenses massage therapists through TDLR. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) |
| License name | Massage Therapist |
| Education or training | At least 500 hours from an approved massage therapy program (16 TAC 117.20). |
| Exam | Texas Massage Therapist Exam (PSI, includes jurisprudence) or the MBLEx plus the Texas Jurisprudence Exam. |
| License term | Two years from the date of issue. |
| Continuing education | At least 12 hours of TDLR-approved CE per renewal, plus human trafficking prevention training. |
How much does it cost?
| Application fee (non-refundable) | $100 |
|---|---|
| Renewal fee (non-refundable) | $75 |
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 Texas
- Complete a 500-hour massage program
- Apply to TDLR and pay the $100 fee
- Complete fingerprinting
- Pass the Texas exam, or the MBLEx plus the Texas Jurisprudence Exam
- Receive your license
- Renew every two years with 12 CE hours
Apply on the official Texas site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Texas?
- Search the name or license number on the official Texas 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.