Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Personal Care
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 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Massage Therapist in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Preliminary/temporary license.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
SC Massage / Bodywork Panel
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$62,830 median (8% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Carolina eligibility requirements for Massage Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to SC Massage / Bodywork Panel and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,186Median annual salary
$62,830Hourly estimate
$30.218% above national median
Difference: +$4,880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMassage Therapist Salary Ranking
#12 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $62,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $61,670 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $56,740 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited 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
Official website verified
SC Massage / Bodywork Panel
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 201, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964588
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $37,300 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Cosmetologist | $29,120 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $35,810 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $25,980 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in South Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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/.
How often do you renew a Massage Therapist license in South Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.