How to Become a Massage Therapist in Montana

The State of Montana Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 147,164 square miles of Big Sky Country, approximately 1,700 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 23,241 people in Kalispell, 9,786 people in Havre, and 9,106 people in Anaconda, massage therapists who work in Montana can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Montana?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Montana, you must register with the Montana Board of Massage Therapy. The application fee is $140. 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 massage therapy program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

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

• Health Works Institute: With a mission to “enhance the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of individuals and society by providing experiential learning programs that foster personal and professional development,” this school hopes that the theories and techniques presented in their programs help students increase awareness of and make positive changes to physical, emotional and spiritual health.
• Montana School of Massage: This school wants to raise awareness of massage therapy as an option for self-care. Because of this, MSM provides students with an atmosphere of confidentiality and professionalism with “attention to the dignity of our students, clinic, community, clients, and the profession of massage therapy.”

Other education options include Massage Training Institute and The Salon Professional Academy.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Montana was $42,419 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 the nonmetropolitan area of Southwestern Montana have the opportunity to earn a higher salary, with the average for this area at $48,246 annually.

Unlock a meaningful career in the healing world of massage therapy by becoming a licensed massage therapist in Montana. Whether you’re nestled in Missoula, working your way through Billings, or chasing serenity near Glacier National Park, Montana’s wide-open opportunities make it a great place to begin.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from meeting the Montana Board of Massage Therapy’s education standards to passing the MBLEx and submitting your official license application. We’ll make sure you’re well-prepared for a successful and rewarding career in massage and bodywork.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in Montana, you must complete a minimum of 500 hours of education from an approved massage therapy program. This is required if you don’t already hold a qualifying license from another state. Your training should include massage techniques, anatomy and physiology, bodywork assessment, ethics, and business practices, all designed to build a strong foundation for a safe and effective career in therapeutic massage.

Montana does not have a specific list of accredited massage therapy schools, but the program you choose must meet the curriculum guidelines set by the Montana Board of Massage Therapy and be accredited by a recognized organization like the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) or another program approved by a national certification agency.

There is no mandatory Montana-specific law course like in some other states, but your curriculum must include 150 hours of ethics and related business education as part of your total massage therapy licensure preparation.

What is the MBLEx?

The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is a national exam that tests your understanding of key skills, concepts, and practices in massage therapy and bodywork.

The MBLEx is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). It’s designed to make sure that entry-level massage therapists have the right knowledge to provide safe, effective care. Topics covered include massage techniques, anatomy and physiology, ethics, and client assessment.

Montana requires you to pass the bodywork licensing exam (or another approved national exam like the NCETMB or NCETM) before applying for your massage therapy license. It’s a crucial step toward becoming a licensed massage therapist and is recognized by most state massage therapy boards across the country.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you have a license from another state and want to work in Montana as a massage therapist, the Montana Board of Massage Therapy will review your transcripts and determine if your background meets their requirements. Your previous education and license must either meet Montana’s standards or exceed them. You must also verify your massage therapy license from each state where you’ve been licensed.

Application Process for Licensure

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

• Submitting Proof of Education: An official transcript or certificate of completion from your massage therapy program showing you completed at least 500 hours of training that meets Montana’s curriculum guidelines.
• MBLEx Scores: Your official test scores must be sent directly from the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) or the appropriate testing agency to the Montana Board of Massage Therapy.
• Application Form: Complete the massage therapy license application, available online through the Montana Department of Labor and Industry’s licensing portal or by downloading a paper version from the Board’s website.
• Application Fees: Submit the non-refundable application fee. You can pay online or by check if mailing in your completed application.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Montana requires all massage therapy license applicants to undergo a professional background review. This process includes:

• Personal History Questions: As part of the completed application, you must answer a series of background screening questions covering your professional history, legal issues, substance use, and any prior disciplinary actions.
• Verification of Good Moral Character: You must be of good moral character, which is evaluated through your application responses and two letters attesting to your character.
• Processing Time: If your application is considered non-routine (for example, if you answer “yes” to any background questions), the Montana Board may request more information or require you to appear at a scheduled board meeting. This can extend the processing time up to 120 days.
• Fees: The application fee covers standard processing, but additional steps may be required if your history includes disciplinary or legal issues.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your license, Montana requires massage therapists to complete continuing education on a regular basis:

• Hours Required: A minimum of 12 hours of continuing education is required every year to keep your massage therapy license active and in good standing.
• Approved Courses: Courses must meet the standards of the Montana Board of Massage Therapy and should include training in massage techniques, ethics, and related therapeutic massage topics.
• Renewal Process: You must submit proof of completed continuing education programs when you file your annual renewal application and pay the renewal fee to maintain your active status.

Montana Massage Insurance Requirements

While not legally required, having massage insurance is highly recommended for Montana massage therapists to protect their practice and safeguard their financial future. Whether you’re working solo in Helena or renting a studio near Big Sky, insurance provides peace of mind.

Here’s a closer look at why insurance matters, the types of Montana massage liability insurance available, and helpful resources for massage and bodywork professionals practicing under the wide-open skies of the Treasure State.

Importance of Insurance

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

• Professional Liability: This 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 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 Montana, consider the following resources:

• Interstate Massage Compact: The Interstate Massage Compact, or IMpact, is a multistate license option for massage therapists working in multiple states. Only Nevada and Ohio have legislation enacted, but therapists should keep a sharp eye on this for licensure reasons.
• Montana Board of Massage Therapy: Regularly visit the state website for 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 Montana, 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 in Montana can find employment in a wide range of settings across the state, including:

• Spas and Wellness Centers: From resort spas near Glacier National Park to wellness retreats in Bozeman, these are common employers offering both relaxation and therapeutic massage services.
• Clinics and Hospitals: In medical environments, massage therapists may support recovery and pain relief as part of a patient’s overall treatment plan, working alongside doctors and physical therapists.
• Chiropractic Offices: A popular setting for massage and bodywork, especially for clients seeking complementary care for chronic pain, injuries, or stress-related conditions.
• Private Practice: Many Montana therapists build their own businesses, offering services in home offices, shared wellness spaces, or through mobile massage therapy—especially in rural communities.
• Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: With Montana’s love for outdoor sports—from skiing in Big Sky to rodeo events—there’s demand for licensed massage therapists who help athletes recover, stay flexible, and avoid injury.

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 Montana, the average annual salary for massage therapists is approximately $56,818, according to Salary.com, April 2025. Salaries typically range from $46,445 on the low end to as high as $72,648, depending on experience level, location, and work setting.
  Massage therapists in more populated areas like Helena, Whitefish, and Missoula may earn higher wages, especially those working in resorts, medical clinics, or private practice. As with many careers, your earning potential can grow with additional training, certifications, and continuing education.

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 Montana, consider the following strategies:

• Networking: Connect with other massage and bodywork professionals through local wellness events, continuing education workshops, or community groups. In Montana’s close-knit towns, word of mouth and relationships go a long way.
• Job Search Platforms: Use job websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, or local Montana-based listings such as MontanaWorks.gov to find openings in clinics, chiropractic offices, fitness centers, and spas.
• Continuing Education: Keep your skills sharp and your license active by enrolling in continuing education programs. Learning new massage techniques or modalities like sports massage or prenatal massage makes you stand out to employers and clients alike.
• Marketing: If you’re planning to open a private practice, whether in downtown Helena or out of a cozy home studio near Whitefish, build your brand. Create a professional website, stay active on social media, and connect with local gyms, yoga studios, or wellness centers to grow your client base.

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 discounts on massage products 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.

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