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Massage Therapist Licensing in South Carolina

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for massage therapist in South Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Massage Therapist in South Carolina

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Preliminary/temporary license
  • Education: Varies by state board
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    SC Massage / Bodywork Panel

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $62,830 median (8% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #12 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in South Carolina

With a median salary of 62,830, Massage Therapists in South Carolina earn 8% above the national median of $57,950. South Carolina ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

Median annual salary

$62,830

Hourly estimate

$30.21
8% above national median

Difference: +$4,880

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$17,870
  • P2525th percentile$47,350
  • P50Median$62,830
  • P7575th percentile$77,930
  • P9090th percentile$98,550

State vs National Median

State: $62,830
National: $57,950

Total employment: 1,500 | Annual openings: N/A

Massage Therapist Salary Ranking

#12 of 50 statesfor Massage Therapist median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Alaska135,200
#2Vermont105,490
#3Oregon82,860
#4Washington82,820
#5Hawaii80,590

Nearby States Comparison

Massage Therapist licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
South Carolina$62,830Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
North Carolina$61,670Specific course requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
Georgia$56,740Degree requiredState exam required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
South Carolina78HighBoard-specific review required.
North Carolina50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Georgia33LowLimited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

SC Massage / Bodywork Panel

110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 201, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329

Phone: 8038964588

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in South Carolina

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Barber$37,300Varies by state board6-24 months
Cosmetologist$29,120Varies by state board6-24 months
Esthetician$35,810Varies by state board6-24 months
Nail Technician$25,980Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in South Carolina?

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 South Carolina?

The median annual salary for Massage Therapists in South Carolina is 62,830. Salaries range from $17,870 (10th percentile) to $98,550 (90th percentile).

How does the Massage Therapist salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?

Massage Therapists in South Carolina earn 8% above the national median of $57,950, with a state median of 62,830.

How many Massage Therapists work in South Carolina?

South Carolina employs approximately 1,500 Massage Therapists according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to South Carolina 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 South Carolina?

The licensing agency is SC Massage / Bodywork Panel. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Massagetherapy/.