Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Personal Care
Massage Therapist Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for massage therapist in Arkansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Massage Therapist in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Arkansas Department of Health • Cosmetology and Massage Therapy Section • Board of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$31,280 median (46% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#50 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Arkansas
With a median salary of 31,280, Massage Therapists in Arkansas earn 46% below the national median of $57,950. Arkansas ranks #50 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$31,280Hourly estimate
$15.0446% below national median
Difference: -$26,670
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMassage Therapist Salary Ranking
#50 of 50 statesfor Massage Therapist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | 135,200 |
| #2 | Vermont | 105,490 |
| #3 | Oregon | 82,860 |
| #4 | Washington | 82,820 |
| #5 | Hawaii | 80,590 |
Nearby States Comparison
Massage Therapist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $31,280 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $66,870 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $49,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $42,510 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $58,010 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $56,540 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $48,140 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Arkansas Department of Health • Cosmetology and Massage Therapy Section • Board of Health
4815 West Markham Street, Slot 8, Little Rock, AR, 72205
Phone: 5016831448
Related Careers in Arkansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $24,700 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $26,450 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $37,250 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $27,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in Arkansas?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Massage Therapists in Arkansas?
Arkansas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Massage Therapists.
What education do you need to become a Massage Therapist in Arkansas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Massage Therapist licensure in Arkansas.
What is the typical Massage Therapist salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Massage Therapists in Arkansas is 31,280. Salaries range from $23,040 (10th percentile) to $63,430 (90th percentile).
How does the Massage Therapist salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Massage Therapists in Arkansas earn 46% below the national median of $57,950, with a state median of 31,280.
How many Massage Therapists work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 320 Massage Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to Arkansas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Massage Therapists in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Health / Cosmetology and Massage Therapy Section / Board of Health. Review agency details at http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/contact-us.