A Comprehensive Guide to Massage Therapy Licensing and Education Requirements in Tennessee

If you're wondering how to start training for a career in massage therapy in Tennessee, there are several things to consider. One major requirement for this field is completing a state-approved program and passing a therapy exam unique to Tennessee. Learning about these requirements can help you find programs that work for you and your lifestyle as you consider pursuing training in this growing field. While the field promises diverse career opportunities, success ultimately depends on dedication, continuous learning, and adherence to state standards.
 

Education Requirements for Tennessee Massage Therapists

If you're wondering how long schooling is for a massage therapist, every aspiring massage therapist must complete a program that's approved by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, the Tennessee Board of Regents, or an agency in another state that is comparable to the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. These programs are designed to ensure that students learn about subjects such as:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Massage techniques
• Business ethics
• Acupressure
• Special populations

The curriculum is structured to balance theoretical knowledge with real-world application. Coursework in anatomy and physiology lays the foundation for understanding the human body and its functions, while neurology offers insights into how the nervous system interacts with various massage techniques.

Applicants must have a high school diploma or an equivalent certification before entering a Massage Therapy program. For those who are out of state, Tennessee may offer licensure by endorsement if they can demonstrate that their education and experience meet or exceed state requirements.

Prospective students should research specific schools to understand the full scope of their curriculum and training schedule. Many programs emphasize hands-on training that can be completed in as little as ten months at institutions such as Concorde Career College, where the focus is on providing practical, career-focused education.
 

Tennessee Massage Therapy Examination

Your massage therapy program helps prepare you for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), which you must pass to become licensed in Tennessee. Administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB), this exam assesses whether you have the essential knowledge and skills to practice as a massage therapist in Tennessee.

The MBLEx consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering various domains such as:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Kinesiology
• Pathology
• Client Assessment
• Massage Application
• Professional Practice
• Ethics, Boundaries, Laws and Regulations

Candidates must fulfill all other licensure requirements, including completing an approved massage therapy program with a minimum of 650 hours of education, before being eligible to take the exam.

Tennessee does not offer a limited permit for massage therapists who have met the education requirements but have not yet passed the MBLEx. Applicants must pass the MBLEx and complete all other requirements before they can be licensed and practice massage therapy.
 

Additional Licensing Requirements

There are other general requirements to satisfy before applying to take the exam. One is the completion of a cardiopulmonary resuscitation course. Applicants are required to have a current CPR certification, completed within three years before licensure. This requirement ensures that massage therapists can handle emergencies and provide a safe environment for their clients. Other requirements include:

• Be of good moral character.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Meet education and examination requirements.

For those whose massage therapy education was conducted in a non-English-speaking country, evidence of English proficiency is also mandatory. There is also an experience requirement for those seeking licensure by endorsement. Different states, countries, and territories have different training and examination requirements, meaning your experience requirements will also vary.

Along with these requirements, candidates must complete the application process, which includes fees. Currently, the fee for initial licensure in Tennessee is $280. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with processing the application and verifying that all prerequisites have been met.
 

Continuing Education and License Renewal

Once licensed, massage therapists in Tennessee must commit to ongoing professional development to maintain their license. Licenses are subject to renewal every two years, and therapists are required to complete a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education during each registration period. This can help you stay current with the latest techniques, research, and standards in the field.

Continuing education courses cover a broad range of topics, from advanced massage techniques and anatomy refresher courses to workshops on professional ethics and client management. These courses must be approved by the relevant regulatory bodies to count toward the required hours.

Continuing education courses must be approved by the Tennessee Board of Massage Licensure and can cover a broad range of topics, from advanced massage techniques and anatomy refresher courses to workshops on professional ethics and client management. At least two hours must be in Tennessee massage therapy laws, and another 2 hours must be in management, ethics, or substance abuse.

No more than eight of the required 24 hours can be completed online; the Tennessee law course must be taken live. This policy ensures that a significant portion of continuing education is delivered through interactive, instructor-led sessions that encourage engagement and practical learning.

Each massage therapist is responsible for maintaining their own records of completed continuing education courses for at least four years after the end of the cycle in which the education was earned. If the Board initiates a verification process, you may be required to provide documentation proving completion of the required continuing education.
 

Career Outlook for Massage Therapists in Tennessee

The career outlook for massage therapists in Tennessee is strong. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a job increase of 15% from 2024 to 2034 for these professionals. This is much faster than average, with a projected 22,800 job openings annually. As individual well-being and overall health continue to be at the forefront of people's minds, this will influence the demand for massage therapists, and there will always be the need to replace individuals exiting the massage therapy field.

Specialization is another avenue where you can differentiate yourself. This can help you target niche clients and balance the demand for different types of massage therapy. For example, if you have many practitioners practicing Swedish massage, you might change it up by specializing in Eastern massage therapy.
 

Starting Your Massage Therapy Career in Tennessee

Becoming a licensed massage therapist in Tennessee involves several steps. First, prospective professionals must complete an approved Massage Therapy program. Following this, they must pass the MBLEx, which tests a wide range of skills and knowledge, including Eastern massage methods. Additional requirements include obtaining a current CPR certification, demonstrating English proficiency (if applicable), and submitting an application.

Maintaining licensure requires a commitment to continuing education, with 24 hours of approved learning needed every two years, ensuring that practitioners remain current with industry developments. The training and licensing process not only prepares candidates for the technical aspects of massage therapy but also sets the stage for a fulfilling career at locations ranging from spas and wellness centers to health care facilities and private practices.

Aspiring massage therapists are encouraged to consider hands-on training opportunities at institutions such as Concorde, where career-focused programs are designed to equip students with the skills needed for  success. With a strong emphasis on education and continuous professional development, a career in massage therapy in Tennessee could be rewarding and impactful for those dedicated to the field. The Massage Therapy program is available at Concorde Memphis and Concorde Southaven. Please check with your local campus for program availability.