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The State of Texas Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 268,581 square miles of the Lone Star State, approximately 26,300 massage therapists work to help the more than 27.6 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 2,099,451 people in Houston, 1,327,407 people in San Antonio, and 1,197,816 people in Dallas, massage therapists who work in Texas can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Texas?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Texas, you must register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The registration fee is $117. 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 accredited massage therapy program and pass a national massage licensing examination.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

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

  • Academy for Massage Therapy Training: Students at this school will learn massage therapy education with a specialization in deep tissue massage. The Academy believes that they and their students are dedicated to offering the best massage therapy anywhere, and “it all starts with how well we do in the classroom.”
  • South Texas Vocational Technical Institute: One of the leading massage schools in Texas, students at this school learn from experienced industry professionals with a focus on hands-on training. Students will gain real experience practicing Swedish massage, hydrotherapy, and clinical techniques.

Other education options include Oceans School and Texas Center for Massage Therapy.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Texas was $37,230 in 2014. This is on the lower side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $41,790. However, massage therapists who work in Corpus Christi have the opportunity to earn a higher salary, with the average for this city at $44,550 annually.

In 2023, the state of Texas had over 23,000 actively licensed massage therapists, despite a 12.1% decrease since 2017 (TX Health Dept). This decline contrasts with the growing demand for massage therapy, which is increasingly recognized as an integral part of health and wellness routines. In fact, 43% of massage consumers reported that their last massage was part of a treatment plan recommended by a doctor or healthcare provider.

Unlock a rewarding career in the thriving massage therapy industry by becoming a licensed massage therapist in Texas. This guide will take you through every stage of the journey. It will cover everything from the required education to passing the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). You’ll then be ready to thrive in this rewarding career.

“Massage has had a positive effect on every medical condition we’ve looked at.” — Tiffany Field, Ph.D., Director of the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine

Educational Requirements

To become a licensed massage therapist in Texas, you must complete 500 hours of education from a state-approved program. This applies if you do not have a license from another state. These programs provide training for a successful career in massage therapy. 

What is the MBLEx?

The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is a standardized test. It assesses your knowledge of necessary concepts and practices in massage therapy.

The MBLEx is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). It tests entry-level massage therapists’ skills and knowledge. It makes sure they are able to practice safely and effectively. Passing the MBLEx is a requirement for licensure in most states, including Texas.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you have a license from another state and want to work in Texas as a massage therapist, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) will review your transcripts. They will decide if your background meets their requirements. Your background must either meet Texas requirements or exceed them. Also, you must complete the Texas Massage Therapy Jurisprudence Exam. It covers Texas-specific rules and laws. 

Texas does not currently take part in the Interstate Massage Compact (IMpact). But this is something to watch for future licensure changes.

Application Process for Licensure

After school and passing the MBLEx, apply for a license in Texas. The process includes:

  • Submitting Proof of Education: Documentation from your massage therapy program.
  • MBLEx Scores: Official test scores sent to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
  • Application Form: Complete the application, which is available on the TDLR website.
  • Application Fees: Pay the required fees as listed on the application form

Background Check and Fingerprinting

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

  • Fingerprinting: Visit an approved vendor to get your fingerprints taken.
  • Background Check: The state conducts a thorough background check to confirm applicant eligibility.
  • Fees and Processing: Pay the associated fees and allow time for processing.

Continuing Education Requirements

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

  • Hours Required: Every two years, complete 12 hours of continuing education. This includes 1 hour of human trafficking awareness training.
  • Approved Courses: Courses must be approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
  • Renewal Process: Submit proof of continuing education with your license renewal application

Importance of Insurance

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

  • Professional Liability: It covers costs if a client sues you for malpractice or negligence. This is important as it protects you from claims related to injuries or service issues.
  • General Liability: It protects against accidents and injuries on your business premises. If a client slips and falls in your office, general liability insurance covers the medical costs and legal fees.
  • Identity Protection Coverage: It protects against identity theft and threats to personal info. It usually includes credit monitoring, dark web scans, and recovery services if your info is at risk.
  • Personal and Advertising Injury Coverage: This coverage will help protect you if you’re accused of libel, slander, or false advertising.

Resources

For detailed info on insurance for Texas massage therapists, see these resources:

Employment and Career Opportunities

Becoming a licensed massage therapist in Texas opens up many job options. Here’s a summary of where to work, expected salaries, and tips for your job search as you begin your career.

Workplaces

Massage therapists are able to find employment in a variety of settings, including:

  • Spas and Wellness Centers: Texas has many spas and wellness centers. They range from urban retreats to wellness resorts. They offer relaxation and therapeutic services, creating jobs for massage therapists.
    Clinics and Hospitals: In Texas, massage therapists often team up with healthcare professionals in clinics and hospitals. They help with patient recovery and rehabilitation.
    Chiropractic Offices: It’s common to use complementary care in chiropractic offices. Therapists help relieve muscle tension and improve outcomes.
    Private Practice: Many Texas therapists run their own businesses. They offer in-home services, use dedicated studios, or work as mobile practitioners.
    Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: In sports-driven cities like Dallas and Houston, massage therapists work with athletes to prevent injuries and improve performance.

Salary Expectations

The salary for massage therapists changes 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 Texas, massage therapists earn about $39,100 a year on average. It varies by metro area. For example, in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area, salaries are higher due to differences in demand and cost of living.

Job Outlook

In Texas, the demand for massage therapists is projected to grow steadily, in line with national trends. As of May 2023, Texas employs approximately 5,490 massage therapists, with a median annual wage of about $50,420. The hourly wage in Texas averages around $24.24.

The job outlook for massage therapists in Texas is promising, especially in the Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington area which ranks in the top 10 for Metropolitan areas with the highest employment level. The positive figures are driven by increasing public awareness of the health benefits of massage therapy and the growing wellness industry in the state. 

Given the projected growth and the competitive wages, Texas remains an attractive state for those pursuing a career in massage therapy​ (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Job Search Tips

To successfully land a job as a massage therapist in Texas, consider the following strategies:

  • Networking: Connect with other professionals at industry events, local massage therapy groups, and Texas-specific online communities.
  • Job Search Platforms: Use job search websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized platforms for healthcare professionals to find openings in Texas.
  • Continuing Education: Attend workshops and courses to keep up with the latest techniques and trends. Continuous learning improves your skills. It also makes you more appealing to employers.
  • Marketing: If you’re starting a private practice, focus on marketing strategies such as building a professional website, using social media, and partnering with local businesses to attract a steady stream of clients.

Ensure Your Peace of Mind with Liability Insurance

As a massage therapist, protecting yourself and your practice is important. Liability insurance is an important safeguard. It protects both seasoned pros and students just starting out. 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 important coverage:

Exclusive Student Discounts: Students benefit from significant discounts on their insurance premiums. This makes it affordable to start protecting yourself right away. Don’t wait until you graduate—secure your future now.

Access to Continuing Education: Stay ahead in your field with access to a wide range of continuing education resources. Our policyholders gain exclusive benefits. They’ll help 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 will propel your career forward.

Why Wait? Protect Your Practice Today! Investing in liability insurance is a smart way to secure a successful, worry-free career. Don’t risk your practice. Choose Massage Magazine Insurance Plus for unmatched protection and benefits.

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