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The State of Utah Massage Therapist Requirements

Throughout the 84,899 square miles of the Beehive State, approximately 6,208 massage therapists work to help the more than 3.2 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.

With 197,756 people in Salt Lake City, 136,009 people in West Valley City, and 116,403 people in Provo, massage therapists who work in Utah can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.

How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Utah?

If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Utah, you must register with the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. The registration fee is $100. 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 600 hours from an accredited massage therapy program and pass a national massage licensing examination as well as the Utah Massage Law exam.

You can find application request forms on their website.

Where Can I Study?

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

  • Myotherapy College of Utah: Utah’s premier massage college, this school has been helping students become LMTs since 1987. Their clinical approach to massage is taught by professional instructors, and classes are small with personalized attention. The school has a 100 percent passing rate on national exams.
  • Utah College of Massage Therapy: Students at this school perform more than 200,000 massages per year in their weekend clinic. Accredited by ACCET, graduates from this school continue to gain career service assistant throughout their massage therapy career.

Other education options include Renaissance College and Provo College.

How Much Will I Earn?

The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Utah was $50,424 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 St. George have the opportunity to earn a higher salary, with the average for this city at $53,568 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 Utah, you must complete a minimum of 600 hours of education from a state-approved massage therapy school-based program here. These massage therapy schools provide comprehensive training that prepares you for a successful career in massage therapy.

Additionally, you are required to pass the Utah Massage Law exam and Rule Examination to receive your massage therapy license in Utah. This examination confirms that you are knowledgeable about the specific laws and regulations governing massage therapy practice and business practices within the state.

Please note that as of January 1, 2024, Utah has introduced new license classifications, including Massage Therapy Assistant and Massage Therapy Assistant In-Training, along with corresponding examination requirements.

What is the MBLEx?

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

The MBLEx is administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). It is designed to evaluate the competency of entry-level massage therapists and confirm they have the necessary skills and knowledge to practice safely and effectively. Passing the MBLEx is a requirement for licensure in most states, including Utah.

Out-of-State License Transfer

If you hold a massage therapy license from another state and wish to practice in Utah, you may qualify for licensure by endorsement. The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) will review your credentials to determine if they meet or exceed Utah’s requirements. This includes verifying your educational background and examination results. Additionally, you must submit a fingerprint-based background check. For detailed information on the endorsement process and necessary documentation, please refer to DOPL’s guidelines.

Application Process for Licensure

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

  • Submitting Proof of Education: Provide documentation from your massage therapy theory program verifying completion of the required 600 hours of education.
  • MBLEx Scores: Request that your official MBLEx scores be sent directly to the Utah DOPL.
  • Application Form: Complete the application for licensure, which is available on the Utah DOPL website.
  • Application Fees: Pay the required fees as listed on the application form.
  • Background Check: Undergo a fingerprint-based background check as part of the application process.

Background Check and Fingerprinting

Utah requires all prospective massage therapist applicants to undergo a background check. This process includes:

  • Fingerprinting: Submit fingerprint cards in a form acceptable to the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing at the time your license application is filed.
  • Background Check: The state conducts a thorough background check, including checks by the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, to confirm applicants’ eligibility.
  • Fees and Processing: Applicants are responsible for the cost of the background check and fingerprinting. Assure that you pay the associated fees and allow time for processing.

Continuing Education Requirements

Unlike some states, Utah does not currently require massage therapists to complete continuing education (CE) hours for license renewal. However, licenses must be renewed every two years, with expiration dates on May 31 of odd-numbered years.

While CE is not mandatory for renewal in Utah, participating in continuing education courses can help massage therapists stay informed about industry advancements, refine their techniques, and improve their professional skills.

Utah Massage Insurance Requirements

While not legally required, having massage insurance is highly recommended for massage therapists in Utah to protect their practice and assure financial security. Here’s an in-depth look at why insurance is important, the types of Utah massage liability insurance available, and additional resources for Utah massage therapists.

Importance of Insurance

Massage insurance provides essential 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 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, 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 Utah, consider the following resources:

Employment and Career Opportunities

As a licensed massage therapist in Utah, a variety of employment opportunities are available across multiple settings. Here’s an overview to help you choose potential workplaces, understand salary expectations, and implement effective job search strategies.

Workplaces

Massage therapists in Utah can find employment in diverse environments, including:

  • Spas and Wellness Centers: These establishments are common employers for massage therapists, offering relaxation and therapeutic services to clients.
  • Clinics and Hospitals: Medical settings where massage therapists collaborate with healthcare professionals to assist in patient recovery and rehabilitation.
  • Chiropractic Offices: Providing complementary care to chiropractic treatments, improving patient outcomes.
  • Private Practice: Many massage therapists choose to run their own businesses, offering services directly to clients either in a home office or by traveling to clients’ locations.
  • Fitness Centers and Sports Facilities: Working with athletes to prevent injuries and improve performance through targeted massage techniques.

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 Utah, the average annual salary for massage therapists is approximately $55,810, with variations depending on the specific metropolitan area. For example, in Salt Lake City, the average annual salary is about $57,180 (Salary.com).

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 services 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.
  • 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 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 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!