Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Personal Care
Massage Therapist Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for massage therapist in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Massage Therapist in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Licensure for Massage Therapy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$54,890 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 54,890, Massage Therapists in Kentucky earn 5% below the national median of $57,950. Kentucky ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$54,890Hourly estimate
$26.395% below national median
Difference: -$3,060
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMassage Therapist Salary Ranking
#32 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $54,890 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $52,740 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $50,430 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $42,730 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $56,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $49,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $66,870 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $60,640 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
- 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
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Licensure for Massage Therapy
500 Mero Street, 2 SC 32, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5027828808
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $48,930 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $32,170 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $26,360 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $60,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Massage Therapists.
What education do you need to become a Massage Therapist in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Massage Therapist licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Massage Therapist salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Massage Therapists in Kentucky is 54,890. Salaries range from $36,670 (10th percentile) to $89,700 (90th percentile).
How does the Massage Therapist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Massage Therapists in Kentucky earn 5% below the national median of $57,950, with a state median of 54,890.
How many Massage Therapists work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 650 Massage Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional Licensing / Board of Licensure for Massage Therapy. Review agency details at http://bmt.ky.gov/.