Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Personal Care
Massage Therapist Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for massage therapist in Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Massage Therapist in Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 4
The Virginia Board of Nursing consists of a 14-member Board, a 5-member Massage Therapy Advisory Board, as well as administrative, licensing, discipline, education, and support staff.
- 5
The Board also approves and regulates in-state education programs for Nurses (RN and LPN), Nurse Aides, and Medication Aides.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Certified Nurse Aides, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Medication Aides and Massage Therapists
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$56,850 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Virginia eligibility requirements for Massage Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Submit the application to Department of Health Professions~Virginia Board of Nursing and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Virginia
With a median salary of $56,850, Massage Therapists in Virginia earn 2% below the national median of $57,950. Virginia ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,471Median annual salary
$56,850Hourly estimate
$27.332% below national median
Difference: -$1,100
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMassage Therapist Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $56,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $58,390 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $42,730 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $54,890 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $49,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 1-18 years |
| North Carolina | $61,670 | Specific course required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 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. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 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
Official website verified
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Nursing
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043674515
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| Barber | $44,760 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in Virginia?
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 exams are required for Massage Therapists in Virginia?
Virginia 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 Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Massage Therapist licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Massage Therapist salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Massage Therapists in Virginia is $56,850. Salaries range from $35,930 (10th percentile) to $120,590 (90th percentile).
How does the Massage Therapist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Massage Therapists in Virginia earn 2% below the national median of $57,950, with a state median of $56,850.
How many Massage Therapists work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 2,150 Massage Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Professions / Virginia Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Nursing/.
How often do you renew a Massage Therapist license in Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.