How to become a massage therapist in Wisconsin
Wisconsin massage therapists are licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), Massage Therapy and Bodywork Therapy Affiliated Credentialing Board. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed massage therapist in Wisconsin, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a massage therapist in Wisconsin?
- At least 18
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Graduated from an approved massage or bodywork school or program
- Passed a national exam
- Current AED/CPR certification
- Malpractice liability insurance
Wisconsin massage therapist license requirements
| State license | Yes. Wisconsin licenses massage therapists and bodywork therapists through DSPS. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), Massage Therapy and Bodywork Therapy Affiliated Credentialing Board |
| License name | Licensed Massage Therapist or Bodywork Therapist |
| Education or training | Graduate from an approved school of massage therapy or bodywork therapy, or complete an approved training program. |
| Exam | A national exam (such as the FSMTB MBLEx), with results sent directly to DSPS. |
| Insurance or bond | Malpractice liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and $1,000,000 for all occurrences in one year. |
| License term | Two years; expires February 28 of odd years. |
| Continuing education | 24 hours every two years, at least 2 in ethics. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial credential fee | $75 |
|---|---|
| Renewal fee | $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 Wisconsin
- Graduate from an approved massage school
- Pass a national exam
- Get AED/CPR certified
- Buy $1M/$1M malpractice liability insurance
- Apply on LicensE and pay the fee
- Renew every two years by February 28 of odd years
Apply on the official Wisconsin site
How do you check a massage therapist's license in Wisconsin?
- Search the name or license number on the official Wisconsin 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.