How to Become a Massage Therapist in Rhode Island

The State of Rhode Island Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 1,214 square miles of the Ocean State, approximately 1,138 massage therapists work to help the more than 1 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 179,494 people in Providence, 80,993 people in Warwick, and 81,254 people in Cranston, massage therapists who work in Rhode Island can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Rhode Island?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Rhode Island, you must register with the Rhode Island Board of Massage Therapy. The registration fee is $65. 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 500 hours from an accredited massage therapy school by COMTA and pass a national massage licensing examination.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

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

• Community College of Rhode Island: With a 100 percent pass rate for first time test takers on the National Certification Examination since 2004, this school has a respected on-site clinic and experienced instructors to help students create their path to their massage therapy careers.
• Newport Massage School (S.A.M.A): The traditional school allows graduates to become LMTs as well as a Registered Ayurvedic Health Counselor. One of the only private massage schools in RI recognized by the RI Board of Governors for Higher Education, this school provides students with a comprehensive and diverse education that will help them fulfill their dream careers.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Rhode Island was $56,096 in 2021. This is on the lower side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in Providence-Fall River have the opportunity to earn a higher salary as well, with the average for this city at $55,882 annually.

Practicing therapeutic massage just steps away from the salty breeze of Narragansett Bay, or building a loyal client base in the cozy communities of West Warwick and Cranston is a reachable dream. Becoming a licensed massage therapist in Rhode Island opens doors to a flexible, meaningful, and in-demand career.

This guide breaks down exactly how to become a massage therapist in Rhode Island, including the minimum education requirements, how to pass a bodywork licensing examination, and what to expect from the Rhode Island Board of Massage Therapy when applying for your license. We’ll also explore accredited massage schools, training programs, licensure forms, criminal background checks, and your path to legally practice massage across the state.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to relocate your practice, Rhode Island offers an engaging blend of opportunity, community, and wellness culture to help your massage career thrive.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in Rhode Island, you must complete a minimum of 800 hours (effective Jan 1st 2025) from a massage therapy program accredited by a recognized agency such as the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA). These programs cover fundamental topics like anatomy and physiology, ethics, soft tissue techniques, and treatment planning to prepare you for licensure.

Rhode Island does not require a separate state laws and rules course, but your curriculum must meet the standards set by the Rhode Island Board of Massage Therapy. Completing your training at a board-approved massage school ensures you’re ready to take the required bodywork licensing exam and begin your career in massage and bodywork.

What is the MBLEx?

The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is a standardized test used to assess your understanding of key principles and practices in massage therapy.

Administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB), the MBLEx evaluates whether prospective massage therapists have the foundational knowledge needed to practice massage safely and professionally. Topics include anatomy, physiology, ethics, and clinical assessment.

Passing the MBLEx is a core requirement for massage and bodywork licensing in Rhode Island and is part of the approved licensure application checklist by the Rhode Island Board of Massage Therapy.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you hold a massage therapy license from another state and want to practice in Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Board of Massage Therapy will evaluate your transcripts to determine if your education and training meet or exceed state standards. You must have completed at least 650 hours from an approved curriculum, passed a national certification examination such as the MBLEx, and meet all other licensure requirements.

You will also be required to submit an application form, pay the applicable application fee, and undergo a criminal background check through the local police department or approved channels before you can legally practice massage in the state.

Application Process for Licensure

After completing your education and passing the MBLEx, you’ll need to apply for massage therapy licensure in Rhode Island. The process includes:

• Submitting Proof of Education: Transcripts from your massage therapy program accredited by a recognized agency such as COMTA.
• MBLEx Scores: Have your official examination scores sent directly to the Rhode Island Board of Massage Therapy.
• Application Form: Complete the licensure application form, available on the Rhode Island Department of Health website.
• Application Fee: Submit the non-refundable application fee as listed on the form.
• Criminal Background Check: You must complete a state and national background check through your local police department or approved fingerprinting provider.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Rhode Island requires all massage therapy applicants to complete a criminal background check as part of the licensure process. This includes:

• Fingerprinting: Schedule an appointment with a state-approved vendor or through your local police department to have your fingerprints taken.
• Background Check: A comprehensive state and federal background check is conducted to verify your eligibility to practice massage in Rhode Island.
• Fees and Processing: Pay any required processing fees and allow time for your results to be submitted to the Rhode Island Department of Health.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your massage therapy license in Rhode Island, you must complete ongoing continuing education:

• Units Required: The board may require up to 6 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) annually — typically one CEU = 50 minutes
• Approved Courses: Courses must be relevant to massage and bodywork, such as ethics, anatomy, treatment planning, or self-care, and must be provided by board-approved or NCBTMB-approved providers.
• Renewal Process: Include proof of completed continuing education with your annual license renewal application submitted to the Rhode Island Department of Health.

Rhode Island Massage Insurance Requirements

While massage liability insurance is not legally required to practice massage in Rhode Island, it is strongly recommended for licensed massage therapists to protect their career, reputation, and financial well-being.

Having professional liability insurance can help cover legal fees, client claims, or unexpected incidents that may arise during therapeutic massage sessions. Many employers, wellness centers, and private practices also prefer or require coverage before allowing therapists to work with clients.

Be sure to get Rhode Island massage liability insurance, whether you’re operating independently or joining an existing practice.

Importance of Insurance

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

• Professional Liability: Covers legal expenses 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 compromised.
• 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 Rhode Island, 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.
• Rhode Island Board of Massage Therapy: Regularly visit the state website for any updates on regulations and state laws.
• MBLEx Guide: Dependable educational platform for completing the MBLEx.

Employment and Career Opportunities

Once you become a licensed massage therapist in Rhode Island, 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).
• As of May 2025, the average annual salary for massage therapists in Rhode Island is $70,196, or about $33.75 per hour (ZipRecruiter). Pay can vary by location; Richmond, Chepachet, and Pascoag top the list, with some therapists earning over $82,000 annually.
  While Rhode Island ranks lower nationally for overall salary, opportunities for higher earnings exist through specialized training, years of experience, and working in wellness hubs like Newport and Providence.

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.
• Consider joining a professional organization like the Rhode Island Massage Therapy Association. Associations like RIMTA offer valuable resources for licensed massage therapists, including continuing education events, networking opportunities, legislative updates, and access to local job listings.
• 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 increases your skills and 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.

Why Wait? Protect Your Practice Today! Investing in liability insurance is a proactive step towards ensuring a successful and worry-free career. Don’t leave your practice vulnerable—choose Massage Magazine Insurance Plus and enjoy unparalleled protection and benefits.