Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Personal Care
Massage Therapist Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for massage therapist in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Massage Therapist in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Physical Therapy Board of California
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,430 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 California
With a median salary of 48,430, Massage Therapists in California earn 16% below the national median of $57,950. California ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$48,430Hourly estimate
$23.2816% below national median
Difference: -$9,520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMassage Therapist Salary Ranking
#42 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $48,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $82,860 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $52,000 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $59,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Physical Therapy Board of California
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 2600, Sacramento, CA, 95815
Phone: 9165618200
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $36,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $39,370 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $36,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $35,000 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in California?
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 is the typical Massage Therapist salary in California?
The median annual salary for Massage Therapists in California is 48,430. Salaries range from $34,000 (10th percentile) to $101,390 (90th percentile).
How does the Massage Therapist salary in California compare to the national average?
Massage Therapists in California earn 16% below the national median of $57,950, with a state median of 48,430.
How many Massage Therapists work in California?
California employs approximately 15,240 Massage Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Massage Therapists in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Physical Therapy Board of California. Review agency details at https://www.ptbc.ca.gov/.