How to Become a Massage Therapist in Hawaii

The State of Hawaii Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 4,028 square miles of the Aloha State, approximately 6,144 massage therapists work to help the more than 1.4 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 348,985 people in Honolulu, 45,605 people in Pearl City, and 45,056 people in Hilo, massage therapists who work in Hawaii can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Hawaii?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Hawaii, you must register with the Hawaii State Board of Massage Therapy. The registration fee is $50. Once you are registered, you must receive licensure by the Board. If you do not register, you will be working illegally and can receive a fine.

In order to receive this license, you must complete a minimum of 570 hours from an approved massage therapy program and be certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

The Hawaii Board of Massage Therapy approves education programs that are licensed by the state department of education or approved by the Board, such as schools approved by the AMTA, COMTA, or Rolfing Institute.

Below are two approved schools in Hawaii to help you get started on what you may be looking for in a massage therapy education.

• Hawaii School of Professional Massage: Designed to “prepare students to enter the job market as qualified candidates for hire,” this school offers extensive training opportunities in the spa massage and medical massage areas. The school has served Hawaii for 13 years with training in key areas such as Swedish massage, deep-tissue, hot stone and therapeutic.
• Big Island Academy of Massage: Approved by the State of Hawaii Massage Board Licensing and an AMTA school member, students at this school will receive high quality education and many job opportunities. Big Island Academy of Massage is known as the “provider of the finest massage therapists” in the Big Island area.

Other education options include Remington College and Spa Luna Holistic School.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Hawaii was $55,841 in 2021. This is on the higher side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in the Maui/Kauai metropolitan area have the opportunity to earn a higher salary, with the average for this city at $66,590 annually.

Protect Yourself and work with Massage Therapy Liability Insurance.

“Aloha is the coordination of mind and heart within each person. It brings each person to self. When the self is realized, the individual can recognize their place in the universe.” – Pono Shim

Imagine starting your day with the sound of waves rolling onto the shore, practicing the ancient art of lomi lomi massage under the swaying palms, and helping clients find relief in one of the most serene places on Earth. Becoming a licensed massage therapist in Hawaii is more than just a career—it’s an opportunity to blend healing with the spirit of Aloha.

This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a massage therapist in Hawaii, from meeting educational requirements to passing the state exam, making sure you’re fully prepared to embark on this rewarding journey in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Understanding Hawaii massage license requirements and preparing for the Hawaii state exam are essential steps to practice massage legally and successfully in the Aloha State.

Educational Requirements

Hawaii requires massage therapists to complete a minimum of 570 hours of massage therapy education and training from a state-approved massage therapy program or an approved apprenticeship program if they do not already have a license from another state. These programs provide comprehensive education and training requirements, including practical massage training that allows students to develop hands-on skills under supervision, preparing them for a successful career in massage therapy.

There is also a mandatory CPR certification for infants and adults that must be received through the American Red Cross (ARC) or the American Heart Association (AHA). Online-only CPR courses are not accepted. If you completed your educational and training requirements at a state-approved massage school or through a sponsoring massage therapist in an apprenticeship program, you may have fulfilled this requirement as part of your curriculum.

What is the Hawaii State Massage Therapy Exam?

Unlike many states that require the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), Hawaii has its own state-administered massage therapy exam. This Hawaii massage exam evaluates your knowledge and understanding of key concepts and practices in the field of massage therapy, making sure that licensed therapists meet Hawaii’s unique professional standards.

PSI Services, LLC administers the Hawaii State Massage Therapy Examination on behalf of the Hawaii Board of Massage Therapy. It is designed to assess the competency of entry-level massage therapists, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to practice safely and effectively. Passing this exam is a mandatory requirement for licensure for therapeutic massage, in Hawaii.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you have a massage therapy license from another state and want to practice in Hawaii, you must apply for licensure by endorsement through the Hawaii Board of Massage Therapy. The Board will review your transcripts to determine if your education and training meet or exceed Hawaii’s requirements for a massage license.

Hawaii does not have reciprocity agreements with other states, meaning each application is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. If your credentials do not meet Hawaii’s 570-hour education requirement, you may need to complete additional coursework or training before qualifying for licensure.

Application Process for Licensure

After completing your education and passing the Hawaii State Massage Therapy Examination, you need to apply for licensure in Hawaii. All candidates must complete the licensing procedure through the Hawaii Department responsible for massage therapy licensing, which operates under the massage therapy (DCCA). The process includes:

• Submitting Proof of Education: Documentation from your massage therapy school or apprenticeship program.
• Exam Scores: Official scores from the Hawaii massage license examination administered by PSI Services, LLC.
• Application Form: Complete the application, which is available on the Hawaii massage therapy board website.
• Application Fees: Pay the required fees as listed on the application form.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Hawaii requires all massage therapy applicants to undergo a background check as part of the application process. This includes:

• Fingerprinting: Visit an approved vendor to get your fingerprints taken.
• Background Check: The state conducts a thorough review to make sure the applicant’s eligibility.
• Fees and Processing: Pay the associated fees and allow time for processing.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your massage therapy license in Hawaii, you must complete continuing education every renewal period:

• Hours Required: A minimum of 12 hours of continuing education every two years.
• Approved Courses: Must include at least two hours focused on first aid, CPR, or emergency-related training.
• Renewal Process: Submit proof of continuing education with your license renewal application. Compliance may be verified through random audits by the Board.

Hawaii Massage Insurance Requirements

While not legally required, having massage insurance is highly recommended for massage therapists in Hawaii to protect their practice and provide financial security. Whether you’re working at a luxury resort in Maui, a wellness retreat on the Big Island, or running your own private practice in Honolulu, having the right insurance coverage safeguards you from potential risks.

Here’s an in-depth look at why insurance is important, the types of Hawaii massage liability insurance available, and additional resources for massage therapists in the Aloha State.

Importance of Insurance

Massage insurance provides necessary protection against various risks associated with the profession. Key reasons to consider obtaining insurance include:

• Professional Liability: Covers legal expenses and damages if a client sues you for malpractice or negligence. This is crucial as it protects you from claims related to injuries or dissatisfaction with your services.
• General Liability: Protects against accidents and injuries that may occur on your business premises. For instance, if a client slips and falls in your office, general liability insurance covers medical costs and potential legal fees.
• Identity Protection Coverage: Provides protection against identity theft and threat incidents that would put personal information at risk. Typically includes credit monitoring, dark web scans, and recovery services if your information is jeopardized.
• Personal and Advertising Injury Coverage: This coverage can help protect you if you’re accused of libel, slander, or false advertising.

Resources

For more detailed information on insurance requirements and recommendations for massage therapists in Hawaii, consider the following resources:

• Interstate Massage Compact: The Interstate Massage Compact, or IMpact, is a multistate license option for massage therapists who work in more than one state. Currently only Nevada and Ohio have legislation enacted, but therapists should keep a sharp eye on this for licensure reasons.
• Hawaii Board of Massage Therapy: Regularly visit the state website for any updates on regulations and state laws.

Employment and Career Opportunities

Once you become a licensed massage therapist in Hawaii, numerous employment opportunities await you. Here’s an overview of potential workplaces, salary expectations, and job search tips to help you start your career.

Workplaces

Massage therapists can find employment in a variety of settings, including:

• Spas and Wellness Centers: These are common employers for massage therapists, providing relaxation and therapeutic services.
• Clinics and Hospitals: Medical settings where massage therapists may work alongside other healthcare professionals to assist in patient recovery and rehabilitation.
• Chiropractic Offices: Offering complementary care to chiropractic treatments.
• Private Practice: Many massage therapists choose to run their own businesses, providing services directly to clients either in a home office or by traveling to clients’ locations.
• Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: Working with athletes to prevent injuries and enhance performance.

Salary Expectations

The salary for massage therapists varies based on location, experience, and place of employment. According to recent data:

• The median annual wage for massage therapists in the United States was $55,310 as of May 2023 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
• In Hawaii, the average annual salary for massage therapists is around $61,520, with variations depending on the specific island and metropolitan area. For example, in the Hawaii/Kauai nonmetropolitan area, the annual mean wage is approximately $78,460 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Job Outlook

The demand for massage therapists is projected to grow significantly. Employment of massage therapists is expected to increase by 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth will result in approximately 22,000 new job openings each year, driven by increasing awareness of the health benefits of massage therapy and the need to replace retiring workers.

Job Search Tips

To successfully land a job as a massage therapist, consider the following strategies:

• Networking: Connect with other professionals in the field through industry events, local massage therapy associations, and online platforms.
  Job Search Platforms: Use job search websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized platforms for healthcare professionals to find job openings.
• Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest techniques and trends in massage therapy by attending workshops and courses. This not only increases your skills but also makes you more attractive to potential employers.
• Marketing: If you are starting a private practice, invest in marketing efforts such as creating a professional website, using social media, and establishing partnerships with local businesses to attract clients.

Ensure Your Peace of Mind with Liability Insurance

As a massage therapist, protecting yourself and your practice is crucial. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a student starting your journey, liability insurance is an essential safeguard. Massage Magazine Insurance Plus offers comprehensive policies that cater to your specific needs, providing unmatched peace of mind. Here’s why you should consider this vital coverage:

Access to Continuing Education: Stay ahead in your field with access to a wide range of continuing education resources. Our policyholders enjoy exclusive benefits that help them keep their skills sharp and up-to-date.

Comprehensive Member Benefits: Join a community that offers more than just insurance. With Massage Magazine Insurance Plus, you gain access to numerous member benefits, including industry news, resources, and industry-exclusive discounts that can propel your career forward.

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