Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NY Board of Personal Care
Massage Therapist Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for massage therapist in New York, 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 New York
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree 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
NYS Education Department • State Board for Massage Therapy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$58,730 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 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 New York
With a median salary of 58,730, Massage Therapists in New York earn 1% above the national median of $57,950. New York ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$58,730Hourly estimate
$28.241% above national median
Difference: +$780
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMassage Therapist Salary Ranking
#21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $58,730 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $105,490 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $59,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $59,270 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $56,760 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $57,660 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 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
NYS Education Department • State Board for Massage Therapy
89 Washington Avenue, 304, Albany, NY, 12234
Phone: 5184743817ext150
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $32,050 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $33,960 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $45,770 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $33,390 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in New York?
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 New York?
New York 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 New York?
The board typically expects Degree required for Massage Therapist licensure in New York.
What is the typical Massage Therapist salary in New York?
The median annual salary for Massage Therapists in New York is 58,730. Salaries range from $35,360 (10th percentile) to $104,060 (90th percentile).
How does the Massage Therapist salary in New York compare to the national average?
Massage Therapists in New York earn 1% above the national median of $57,950, with a state median of 58,730.
How many Massage Therapists work in New York?
New York employs approximately 4,700 Massage Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to New York 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 New York?
The licensing agency is NYS Education Department / State Board for Massage Therapy. Review agency details at http://www.op.nysed.gov/prof/.