The State of Arkansas Massage Therapist Requirements
Throughout the 53,179 square miles of The Natural State, approximately 1,801 massage therapists work to help the more than 3 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.
With 197,958 people in Little Rock, 87,743 people in Fort Smith, and 85,166 people in Fayetteville, massage therapists who work in Arkansas can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.
How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Arkansas?
If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Arkansas, you must register with the Arkansas State Board of Massage Therapy. The registration fees are $180. 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 of in-classroom coursework from an approved massage therapy program and be certified by the Board.
You can find application request forms on their website.
Where Can I Study?
The Arkansas State Board of Massage Therapy provides a list of approved schools where future LMTs can complete their 500 required hours.
Little Rock and Jonesboro are a couple of popular cities in Arkansas to study massage, with two leading schools operating there: Arkansas College of Massage and Heritage College in Little Rock.
- Arkansas College of Massage: Encouraging students to study bodywork as it applies to athletics and human performance, this school hopes students will better understand the physical stresses placed upon an athlete, helping the stresses placed on an average person easier to understand. Licensed by the Board, students will complete the necessary 500 hours and will better be able to create their massage business success.
- Heritage College in Little Rock: With a holistic approach to massage therapy as an important part of good healthcare, this school incorporates medicine science and eastern techniques to give students a “sophisticated market.” Students will learn deep tissue massage, physiology, sports massage and more, and will be offered continuous recourses to help them with their job search upon graduation.
Other education options include Blue Cliff College in Fayetteville, Arkansas School of Massage in Fort Smith.
How Much Will I Earn?
The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Arkansas was $49,085 in 2021. This is on the lower side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. However, massage therapists who work in Little Rock have the opportunity to earn a slightly higher salary, with the average for this city at $49,253 annually.
License Requirements for Massage Therapists by State
We want to make finding the information you need easy. That’s why we’ve put together this easy guide to the requirements of all 50 states.
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Educational Requirements
To obtain a massage therapist license in Arkansas, you must complete a minimum of 500 hours of education from a state-approved massage therapy school. These programs provide hands-on training in different massage techniques, anatomy, physiology, and business ethics to prepare you for a successful career or massage therapy practice.
Unlike some states that require additional state-specific coursework, Arkansas does not have separate laws and rules for courses outside of the standard curriculum. However, your training must align with the Arkansas State Board guidelines to make sure you meet all licensing requirements.
What is the MBLEx?
The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) is a standardized test that assesses your knowledge of fundamental massage therapy principles, techniques, and professional ethics. Administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB), the MBLEx confirms that entry-level massage therapists have the skills to practice safely and effectively.
Passing the MBLEx is a requirement for massage therapy licensure in Arkansas. If you’re planning to start your career in Arkansas, you’ll need to complete your state-approved massage education program before applying to take the exam. The test covers important topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, client assessment, and therapeutic massage techniques, helping to standardize professional competency across the industry.
Out-of-State License Transfer
If you have a massage therapy license from another state and want to work in Arkansas, you must apply for a new license, as Arkansas does not offer reciprocity or direct transfers. The Arkansas Department of Health will review your transcripts to determine if your education and training meet or exceed state requirements.
You must also approved the MBLEx or an approved NCBTMB exam and complete a criminal background check before receiving your Arkansas massage license.
Application Process for Licensure
After completing your massage therapy education and passing the MBLEx, you must apply for licensure in Arkansas. The process includes:
- Submitting Proof of Education – Provide official documentation from your Arkansas-approved massage therapy program.
- MBLEx Scores – Request your official MBLEx test scores to be sent to the Arkansas Department of Health, Massage Therapy Section.
- Application Form – Complete the Arkansas massage therapy license application, which is available on the Arkansas Department of Health website.
- Application Fees – Pay the required application fee as listed on the application form.
Background Check and Fingerprinting
Arkansas requires all massage therapy applicants to undergo a criminal background check as part of the licensure process. This includes:
- Fingerprinting – After submitting your license application, you will receive a fingerprinting packet from the Arkansas Department of Health. You must visit a local police station or an approved vendor to have your fingerprints taken.
- Background Check – The state will conduct a criminal background check to determine eligibility for licensure.
- Fees and Processing – Applicants must submit the required background check fees along with their completed fingerprinting forms.
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain your massage therapy license in Arkansas, you must complete continuing education requirements:
- Hours Required – A minimum of 18 hours of continuing education every two years. Of these, only six (6) hours can be completed through online or home study courses, while the remaining 12 hours must be in person.
- Approved Courses – Continuing education courses must be approved by the Arkansas Department of Health, Massage Therapy Section. Classes taken out of state may be accepted if they are NCBTMB-approved or approved by another state’s massage board.
- Renewal Process – Submit proof of continuing education along with your license renewal application before your expiration date. Carryover hours are not allowed, so all CEUs must be earned within each renewal period.
Arkansas Massage Insurance Requirements
While not legally required, having massage insurance is highly recommended for massage therapists to protect their practice and provide financial security. Here’s an in-depth look at why insurance is important, the types of Arkansas massage liability insurance available, and additional resources for Arkansas massage therapists.
Importance of Insurance
Massage insurance provides necessary protection against risks associated with the profession. Key reasons to consider getting 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.
- 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 Arkansas, 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.
- Arkansas Department of Health: 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 Arkansas, a variety of career opportunities await you. Whether you prefer working in a wellness spa in Hot Springs, a chiropractic office in Little Rock, or even launching your own private practice, Arkansas offers plenty of options to build a successful career.
Workplaces
Massage therapists in Arkansas can find employment in a range of settings, including:
- Spas and Wellness Centers – Arkansas is home to a rich spa culture, particularly in Hot Springs, where historic bath houses attract visitors seeking therapeutic and relaxation services.
- Clinics and Hospitals – Many massage therapists work with healthcare professionals in rehabilitation centers and medical clinics, assisting in pain management and post-injury recovery.
- Chiropractic Offices – Chiropractors in Fayetteville, Little Rock, and other cities often hire massage therapists to provide complementary care for their patients.
- Private Practice – Many massage therapists choose to run their own businesses, either by offering treatments in a home-based clinic (which must be registered with the state) or by providing mobile massage services to clients.
- Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities – Arkansas has a strong outdoor and sports culture, with massage therapists working with athletes, hikers, and fitness enthusiasts to improve performance and prevent injuries.
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 Arkansas, the average annual salary for massage therapists is approximately $81,785, according to Indeed. This figure changes depending on location within the state. For example, in Fayetteville, the average hourly wage is $48.41, while in Little Rock, it is $31.89 per hour (indeed.com).
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 in Arkansas, consider the following strategies:
- Networking – Connect with other professionals through local massage therapy events, wellness expos, and Arkansas-based massage therapy associations. Engaging with chiropractors, physical therapists, and spa owners can also open doors to new job opportunities.
- Job Search Platforms – Use job search websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn, as well as industry-specific sites that list massage therapy positions in Arkansas.
- Continuing Education – Stay competitive by learning new techniques and earning additional certifications in modalities like sports massage, deep tissue, or medical massage. This can make you more attractive to employers and allow you to expand your services.
- 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 and improve business management prospects.
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 networking opportunities 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. Visit Massage Magazine Insurance Plus to learn more and secure your policy. Your future self will thank you!