How to Become a Massage Therapist in New Jersey

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The State of New Jersey Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 8,729 square miles of the Garden State, approximately 7,775 licensed massage therapists practice massage and bodywork therapy to help the more than 8.9 million residents find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety. Every Jersey-licensed massage therapist must meet state requirements set by the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy to qualify for a New Jersey license, including education, supervised clinical practice, and successful completion of the Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx exam).

With 281,054 people in Newark, 261,940 people in Jersey City, and 145,710 people in Paterson, massage therapists in New Jersey will find engaged communities to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business. From therapeutic massage in urban wellness centers to bodywork therapy along the Jersey Shore, opportunities are growing in every region of the state.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in New Jersey?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in New Jersey, you must register with the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy and pass a clear criminal background check. The registration fee is $60 or $120, depending on when you are eligible. Once you are registered, you must receive licensure from 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 or be certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.

You can find application request forms on their website.

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Where Can I Study?

The New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy allows students to complete their 500 required hours at schools approved by the NJ Department of Education, the NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the NJ Commission of Higher Education, or an agency of another state that meets the same requirements.

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

• Gentle Healing School of Massage and Education Center: Awarded the “School of Excellence” award from the ACCSC, this school has been creating talented massage therapists since 1996. Their mission is to “instruct students in the art and science of massage therapy in a relevant, current, and conducive manner.”
• Academy of Massage Therapy: With small class sizes and personal learning environments, this school has a teaching philosophy based on “hands-on” learning with the theory to support the practical applications. This is the oldest massage therapy school in New Jersey, and many graduates are now employers themselves.

Other education options include the Institute for Therapeutic Massage and the JSG School of Massage Therapy.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in New Jersey was $58,843 in 2021, especially for those who pass the MBLEx exam. This is on the higher side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. Massage therapists who work in New York-White Plains have the opportunity to earn a higher salary, with the average for this city at $61,229 annually.

Unlock a rewarding career in the booming massage therapy industry by becoming a licensed massage therapist in New Jersey, following the successful completion of all requirements. This thorough guide will walk you through each step of the process, from educational requirements to passing the MBLEx. It will make sure you’re well-prepared to succeed in this rewarding profession.

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in New Jersey, applicants must first hold a high school diploma and then complete at least 500 hours of education from an approved massage therapy program. Each program consists of classroom study, supervised clinical practice, and lab hours that prepare students for a career in massage and bodywork therapy. The curriculum typically includes anatomy, physiology, law, ethics, and hands-on massage techniques to provide a complete foundation in both theory and practice.

Approved schools must be recognized by the New Jersey Department of Education, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, or the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education. Programs such as JSG School of Massage Therapy and the American Institute may also provide financial aid options for qualifying students, making it easier to obtain the required training.

New Jersey also stresses professional development beyond initial licensure. Every Jersey-licensed massage therapist must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain their NJ license. These courses, approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and other recognized organizations, ensure graduates stay current with evolving massage techniques, bodywork therapy standards, and state requirements.

What is the MBLEx?

The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is the primary bodywork licensing exam required for a New Jersey license. This standardized licensing exam measures your knowledge of anatomy, physiology, massage techniques, and bodywork therapy principles. It also evaluates your understanding of ethics, law, and supervised clinical practice to ensure you’re fully prepared for professional work.

The MBLEx exam is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB), the national massage authority that oversees entry-level standards across the country. Successful completion of this exam is required for board certification and licensure in most states, including New Jersey.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you hold a valid massage therapy license from another state with similar or higher requirements, you can apply for licensure in New Jersey. You must submit a written application and the necessary fee to the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. The Board will issue a New Jersey license if your out-of-state license meets or exceeds its 500-hour requirement.

Application Process for Licensure

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

• Submitting Proof of Education: Provide official documentation from your massage therapy program showing you’ve met the required 500 hours of training.
• MBLEx Scores: Have your official MBLEx test scores sent directly to the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy.
• Application Form: Complete the application through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs website.
• Application Fees: Pay the required fees as listed on the application form.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

The State of New Jersey requires every applicant for massage and bodywork therapy to undergo a clear criminal background check as part of the licensing exam process. This step ensures that only qualified individuals may obtain a New Jersey license and practice as a licensed massage therapist. Some employers may also request a drug screening in addition to the state’s requirements.

• Fingerprinting: Applicants must visit an approved vendor, such as IDEMIA, to have their fingerprints digitally recorded. This process is required before the Jersey Board can issue approval for licensure.
• Background Check: The New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy conducts a comprehensive review of each applicant’s moral character and eligibility for licensure in accordance with state requirements and labor and workforce development standards.
• Fees and Processing: Applicants must pay the additional fee directly to the fingerprinting service and allow processing time before results are submitted to the New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs and forwarded to the massage and bodywork therapy licensing board.

By completing this step, students demonstrate professional readiness and meet one of the core state requirements for obtaining their NJ license.

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your license, New Jersey requires massage therapists to complete continuing education:

• Hours Required: A minimum of 20 hours of continuing education is required every two years.
• Approved Courses: Courses must be approved by recognized organizations such as the NCBTMB or those accepted by the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy.
• Renewal Process: Submit proof of completed continuing education along with your license renewal application and fees.

New Jersey Massage Insurance Requirements

In New Jersey, carrying liability insurance is not just advisable for massage therapists, it’s a legal requirement. Under N.J.S.A. 45:11-68, every licensed massage and bodywork therapist must maintain professional liability insurance with at least:

• $1,000,000 per occurrence
• $3,000,000 aggregate per policy year

Our New Jersey massage liability insurance is available for massage therapists at only $14/month and we offer additional resources to make sure you are well-informed and protected within the state.

Importance of Insurance

Massage insurance provides essential protection against different risks associated with the profession. The main reasons to consider getting insurance include the following:

• 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 Theft Protection: 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 protects you if you’re accused of libel, slander, or false advertising in your marketing materials and in other exchanges.

Resources

For more detailed information on insurance requirements and recommendations for massage therapists in New Jersey, consider the following resources:

• New Jersey Massage State Requirements: This page provides specific information about insurance requirements in New Jersey.
• 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.
• New Jersey Consumer Affairs: Regularly visit the state website for any updates on regulations and state laws.
• MBLEx Guide: This is a dependent educational platform for completing the MBLEx.

Employment and Career Opportunities

Once you become a licensed massage therapist in New Jersey, many employment opportunities await you, as the program consists of both practical and theoretical training. Here’s an overview of potential workplaces, salary expectations, and job search tips to help you start your career.

Workplaces

Massage therapists in New Jersey can find employment in a wide range of settings:

• Spas and Wellness Centers: Popular along the Jersey Shore, these offer relaxation and therapeutic services.
• Clinics and Hospitals: Therapists work with healthcare teams to aid in patient rehabilitation.
• Chiropractic Offices: Supporting chiropractic treatments with complementary massage care.
• Private Practice: Many therapists choose to serve clients in cities like Hoboken and Princeton, either at home or on the go.
• Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: Working with athletes, particularly in areas like Atlantic City, to prevent injuries and boost performance.

Salary Expectations

• The median annual wage for massage therapists in the United States was $55,310 as of May 2023 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
• In New Jersey, the average annual salary for massage therapists is around $64,029, with variations depending on the specific area. For example, cities like Jersey City and Newark tend to offer higher wages than more rural areas in the state. Overall, New Jersey is considered one of the better-paying states for massage therapists (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

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 create about 22,000 new jobs each year. This is due to a greater awareness of massage therapy’s health benefits 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.
• Professional Associations: Consider joining the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). This organization offers essential resources for massage therapists, including continuing education opportunities, industry updates, and networking.
• 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, taking care of yourself and your practice is extremely important. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, having liability insurance is necessary. Massage Magazine Insurance Plus offers great insurance policies specifically for therapists like you, giving you the protection you deserve. It’s a requirement in our state for massage therapists to have professional liability insurance with coverage of $1,000,000 per incident and $3,000,000 each year. Here are some reasons why getting this vital insurance is a smart choice:

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 Policyholder Benefits: Join a community that offers more than just insurance. With Massage Magazine Insurance Plus, you gain access to numerous policyholder 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.

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NJ Massage Therapists License Requirements FAQs

What do you need to become a massage therapist? 

In New Jersey, massage therapists will need to have completed an approved course of study that’s accredited or approved by one of the following agencies: the NJ Department of Education, the NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development, or the NJ Commission on Higher Education. 

An applicant will need at least 500 hours completed by an accredited program and then pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) offered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). The State of New Jersey also requires proof of massage therapy liability insurance coverage.

Who maintains all of the regulatory information for the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy?

The New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs maintains all of the regulatory information concerning the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy. You can find general information about the board, meetings, disciplinary action, applications and forms, tips for license applicants, the laws and regulations, license verification, and additional information all online from this site. If you don’t see the information you’re looking for, it’s a good idea to reach out to the board directly. You can email MassageTherapy@dca.lps.state.nj.us or call 973-504-6520. In the event you want to write, they have a P.O. Box listed as P.O. Box 45048, Newark, NJ, 07101.

How long does it take to get an NJ massage license?

The length of time it takes to get your NJ massage license will vary depending on how long it takes you to meet all of the requirements. First, you will need 500 hours completed from an accredited massage education program. Within these, you’ll need at least 90 hours of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, ethics, law, electives, theory, and practice, as well as at least 100 hours in clinical practice. After that, you’ll need to pass the MBLEx and get insured. Once you have all of this, you can pay the application fees and start the process. Depending on the program, you should expect at least six months to get it all done.

Where can you find the best massage therapy school NJ has to offer?

In order to apply for a massage license in NJ, you have to complete a course of study that’s approved by one of the following state agencies: the New Jersey Department of Education, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, or the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education. There’s also the possibility of meeting this requirement through an agency from a different state that has certification requirements similar to those of the three agencies listed above. So, finding the best massage therapy school in NJ should always start with looking at accredited programs.

What’s the quickest massage therapy license NJ provides?

There isn’t a “fast pass” option for massage therapy licensing in NJ unless you already are licensed in a different state and can get approved for reciprocity. Otherwise, all applicants will still need to complete the 500 hours of education from an approved education provider, pass the MBLEx, and be able to provide proof of massage therapy insurance before applying. Now, many massage education programs today are set up with self-paced online sections, which means you could put in more work and get through these faster, but you’ll still need to be sure you’re meeting all the requirements, such as 100 hours of clinical experience.

What’s the best massage therapy training NJ has?

Looking for the best massage therapy training for initial licensing needs to start with the New Jersey Department of Education, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, or the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education. Each of these agencies maintains a list of approved education providers. If you need approved massage therapy continuing education providers in New Jersey, the NJ Massage Board maintains a list of these providers on its site and presently includes the NCBTMB and about a dozen others.

Does the NJ Massage Board set license requirements?

The NJ Massage Board is granted authority under New Jersey Statutes to set and maintain the requirements concerning massage therapy licensing in the state. These requirements do change based on the present conditions in the industry, so you should always be sure to check in with the New Jersey Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy 

What are the New Jersey massage therapy license requirements?

In general, an applicant wanting to apply for an initial massage license in the State of New Jersey is going to need a high school diploma, 500 hours of education from an approved provider, proof of having liability insurance, and proof they’ve passed either the MBLEx or the NCBTMB massage exam. When you go to apply for an NJ massage license, you’ll need a notary for your signature, the correct filing fees, transcripts, a passport-style photograph, and other requirements depending on your background. As far as continuing education, massage therapists will need to pay the renewal fee and complete at least 20 hours every two years from an approved massage education provider.