State of Iowa

The State of Iowa Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 56,272 square miles of The Hawkeye State, approximately 3,017 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 215,636 people in Des Moines, 132,301 people in Cedar Rapids, and 102,169 people in Davenport, massage therapists who work in Iowa can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Iowa?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Iowa, you must register with the Iowa Board of Massage Therapy. The registration fee is $120. 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 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 Iowa Board of Massage Therapy provides approval criteria for schools that offer massage therapy education. If you would like to study at a school that is not approved, you can pursue an application for school approval.

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

  • Carlson College of Massage Therapy: This school wants to “a profession into your hands.” Students will learn with a rehabilitative based education to understand how to effectively treat chronic or acute muscular dysfunction. Because of this, the program graduates students who are highly marketable in the healthcare community. The graduate initial placement rate in the field of massage is more than 97 percent.
  • CAPRI College: This program is active and led by massage professionals with years of experience helping clients. Students will receive personalized, hands-on instruction in modalities including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, Thai massage, infant massage and more. Students will work with real clients in a professional clinic with the support and guidance of an instructor.

Other education options include Ancient Wisdom Massage School, Clinic and Spa and Windemere Institute of Healing Arts.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Iowa was $50,934 in 2021. This is on the lower side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in Cedar Rapids have the opportunity to earn a similar salary, with the average for this city at $50,497 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.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in Iowa, you must complete a minimum of 600 hours of education from a board-approved massage therapy program unless you already hold a license from a national certification board in another state. These programs provide comprehensive training that prepares you for a successful career in massage therapy.

There are no separate Iowa laws and rules courses required for licensure. However, if you complete your educational training at a board-approved massage school, instruction on professional standards and ethics and therapeutic massage techniques and Swedish massage is typically included as part of the approved curriculum.

What is the MBLEx?

The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is a standardized test that evaluates your knowledge and understanding of fundamental concepts and practices in the field of massage and bodywork therapy.

Administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB), the MBLEx is designed to assess the competency of entry-level massage therapists, ensuring they possess the skills and knowledge needed to practice safely and effectively. Passing the MBLEx is a requirement for licensure in massage therapy students in most states, including Iowa.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you hold a massage therapy license from another state and want to practice as a massage therapist in Iowa, the Iowa Board of Massage Therapy will review your transcripts to determine if your background meets their requirements. Your educational and training background must either meet or exceed Iowa’s standards, including a minimum of 600 hours of massage therapy education.

Additionally, you must provide official license verification from all states where you have been licensed. This verification must include the license issue date, expiration date, current status, and any record of disciplinary actions. Verification can be submitted through an online state licensing board portal if it includes all required information or sent directly from the licensing board office to the Iowa Board of Massage Therapy.

Application Process for Licensure

After completing your education and passing the MBLEx, you need to apply for licensure in Iowa. The process includes:

  • Submitting Proof of Education: Provide official transcripts from your massage therapy program, sent directly from the school to the Iowa Board of Massage Therapy.
  • MBLEx Scores: Submit official test scores from the MBLEx, sent directly from the FSMTB to the Iowa Board of Massage Therapy.
  • Application Form: Complete the online application, available through the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) Professional Licensure Portal.
  • Application Fees: Pay the required application fee as listed on the online form.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Iowa requires all massage therapy applicants to undergo a background check. This process includes:

  • Fingerprinting: Background checks are required; fingerprinting may be requested depending on the board’s review..
  • Background Check: The state conducts a comprehensive background check to verify applicant eligibility and review any criminal history.
  • Fees and Processing: Pay all applicable fees for fingerprinting and background checks and allow time for processing before your license is issued.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your massage therapist license, Iowa requires massage therapists to complete continuing education:

  • Hours Required: 16 hours of continuing education every two years.
  • Approved Courses: Iowa does not pre-approve specific courses, so it is the licensee’s responsibility to ensure courses meet the Iowa Board of Massage Therapy standards. Courses should align with professional practice, ethics, and laws.
  • Renewal Process: Retain certificates of completion and submit proof of continuing education if selected for a random audit during the renewal cycle.

Iowa Massage Insurance Requirements

While massage liability insurance is not legally required in Iowa, it is highly recommended for massage therapists to safeguard their practice and ensure financial security. Here’s why insurance is important and the types of coverage to consider:

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 important 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, it 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 Iowa, consider the following resources:

Employment and Career Opportunities

Once you become a licensed massage therapist in Iowa, numerous career 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: Popular employers offering relaxation and therapeutic services. You might find opportunities at local destinations like the Des Lux Spa in Des Moines or charming wellness retreats near the Amana Colonies.
  • Clinics and Hospitals: Work alongside healthcare professionals, aiding in patient recovery and rehabilitation. University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics often integrate holistic care, including massage therapy.
  • Chiropractic Offices: Provide complementary care to chiropractic treatments, helping patients manage pain and improve mobility.
  • Private Practice: Start your own business, offering services in a home office or traveling to clients’ locations. Iowa’s tight-knit communities, from Cedar Rapids to Council Bluffs, are ideal for building a loyal client base.
  • Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: Work with athletes to prevent injuries and enhance performance. You could help runners recover after events like the IMT Des Moines Marathon or support athletes from local sports teams such as the Iowa Cubs.

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).
  • According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2022, the annual mean wage for massage therapists in Iowa is $50,700. Salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and workplace setting. For instance, massage therapists working in metropolitan areas like Des Moines or Cedar Rapids may have different earning potentials compared to those in more rural settings.

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

  • 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 from legal and financial aspects of your practice is important. 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!