How to Become a Massage Therapist in Georgia

The State of Georgia Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 59,425 square miles of The Peach State, approximately 5,840 massage therapists work to help the more than 10.5 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 488,800 people in Atlanta, 197,191 people in Augusta, and 197,485 people in Columbus, massage therapists who work in Georgia can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Georgia?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Georgia, you must register with the Georgia Board of Massage Therapy. The registration fee is $125. 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. You must also have massage insurance to practice in the state of Georgia.

In order to receive this license, you must complete a minimum of 500 hours from an approved massage therapy program by the Board 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 Georgia Board of Massage Therapy provides a list of approved schools where future LMTs can complete their 500 required hours.

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

• Atlanta School of Massage: With a belief that “self-discovery and personal growth are essential components of the student experience,” Atlanta School of Massage teaches students with a holistic approach, blending both art and science in its massage therapy training. The school is a member of the ASM Wellness family of teaching programs, and provides a variety of massage therapy services to the public.
• Georgia Massage School: This 500-hour massage training curriculum is divided into the categories outlined by the Georgia Board of Massage Therapy. The classes are half-day to add convenience to students’ busy schedules. The school has a comfortable atmosphere and two National Teacher of the Year award-winning instructors.

Other education options include Everest Institute, and Miller-Motte Technical College.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Georgia was $52,647 in 2021. This is on the lower side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in Chattanooga earn a slightly lower salary, with the average for this city at $40,760 annually.