Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Personal Care
Massage Therapist Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for massage therapist in Ohio, 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 Ohio
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: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
State Medical Board of Ohio
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$50,430 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 Ohio
With a median salary of 50,430, Massage Therapists in Ohio earn 13% below the national median of $57,950. Ohio ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$50,430Hourly estimate
$24.2513% below national median
Difference: -$7,520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMassage Therapist Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $50,430 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $54,510 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $57,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $42,730 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| 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 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 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. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
State Medical Board of Ohio
30 E. Broad Street, 3rd Floor, Columbus, OH, 43215
Phone: 6144663934
Related Careers in Ohio
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $46,930 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $29,440 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $41,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $35,900 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in Ohio?
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 Ohio?
Ohio 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 Ohio?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Massage Therapist licensure in Ohio.
What is the typical Massage Therapist salary in Ohio?
The median annual salary for Massage Therapists in Ohio is 50,430. Salaries range from $35,610 (10th percentile) to $65,820 (90th percentile).
How does the Massage Therapist salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Massage Therapists in Ohio earn 13% below the national median of $57,950, with a state median of 50,430.
How many Massage Therapists work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 2,480 Massage Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to Ohio from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Ohio?
The licensing agency is State Medical Board of Ohio. Review agency details at https://www.med.ohio.gov/.