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To be able to work as a massage therapist you need to have a license in most states.
Nevertheless, these specialists were obliged to obtain their license not so long ago.
As a result, the licensing process differs significantly from other specialties.
Among the main requirements, there are education and examination.
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In some states, there can be additional requirements such as background checks, liability insurance policy, and/or state-specific training.
You need some time to complete the licensing process.
Below you can find more info about each step you need to complete so you can get your license.
Documenting Education
There are numerous ways to get your training if you want to become a massage therapist.
In most cases, you need to complete a massage therapy school or program and provide official transcripts.
Some states require students to complete an education verification that is held by a representative of the school.
It can be done as transcripts or can be an additional requirement.
Also, in some states, you need to provide a paper that proves your high-school graduation or its equivalent.
You may be obliged to have a transcript or a high-school diploma.
Meeting Examination Requirements
You need to pass a licensing examination in most states except in some of them.
Mostly, you need to pass an exam before applying for your licensing.
Applying for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), you can get your result sent directly to your licensing agency.
The whole process is electronic so it can be completed pretty fast.
If you are pursuing this career through an apprenticeship or any other nontraditional option, you need to address your local licensing agency.
In some states, you need to have a license to be able to work as an apprentice.
You may also be obliged to complete a jurisprudence exam that aims to check your knowledge of related laws, rules, and ethics.
This formal examination can be taken through the Board office.
It also can be completed online but if you decide to pass it in person you need to schedule it intermittently.
If there is no jurisprudence exam in your state, you still may need to prove that you know all these laws and rules.
Background Screening
In some states, you need to pass a fingerprint-based background check.
Usually, it should be completed through an approved provider that has scanned fingerprinting services.
To provide info about the background check you need to have an agency (ORI) number.
You can find this information in your application packet.
There are states that have a name-based background check.
Virtual form contains numerous questions about applicant’s criminal history.
If an applicant has some criminal convictions, it doesn’t mean that he or she will be disqualified.
Nevertheless, you need to provide detailed and complete information.
The application usually includes official documentation and self-explanations.
In some cases, the licensing agency may ask you to provide reference letters as well.
There are only a few jurisdictions that require all applicants to provide references.
Fulfilling Additional Requirements
There are some states that make all the applicants take out a liability insurance policy.
Just make sure that the policy you have complies with the board rules.
Usually, this policy has a minimum coverage amounts.
In some states, you need to prove that you have current CPR certification.
The application packet may also include links to some approved providers.
Preparing the Application
There are some other steps that may make your application process longer.
In some states, you need to add your passport photo or two to your application.
Also, you may be obliged to provide the document that proves the fact that you are at least 18.
Moreover, you may be asked to prove that you are a citizen of the state or have any other legal status.
This step can be easily completed if you were born in the USA.
Also, your application may require notarization.
As you can see the length of the licensing process depends on your location.
Usually, licensing agencies provide pretty clear instructions about the steps that should be completed.
If you follow these steps properly you’ll be able to obtain your license rather fast.