Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Personal Care
Massage Therapist Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for massage therapist in Washington, 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 Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must have completed a Washington State Board of Massage-approved education programand have successfully passed the national examination offered by either the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, answer statements about physical and mental health status, criminal background, any disciplinary actions, liability claims history, certify a lack of impairment due to chemical dependency/substance abuse and pay the required fee.
Exam and processing details
- State Board of Massage-approved education programand have successfully passed the national examination offered by either the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, answer statements about physical and mental health status, criminal background, any disciplinary actions, liability claims history, certify a lack of impairment due to chemical dependency/substance abuse and pay the required fee
Continuing education and program notes
- Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, answer statements about physical and mental health status, criminal backgr
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$82,820 median (43% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Massage Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required State Board of Massage-approved education programand have successfully passed the national examination offered by either the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage....
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; Individuals must have completed a Washington State Board of Massage-approved education programand have successfully passed the national e...).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $82,820, Massage Therapists in Washington earn 43% above the national median of $57,950. Washington ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$82,820Hourly estimate
$39.8243% above national median
Difference: +$24,870
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMassage Therapist Salary Ranking
#4 of 50 statesfor Massage Therapist median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Massage Therapist licensing across the regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $70,750 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Cosmetologist | $58,920 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $64,880 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $47,840 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington 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 Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Massage Therapist licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Massage Therapist salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Massage Therapists in Washington is $82,820. Salaries range from $59,160 (10th percentile) to $115,920 (90th percentile).
How does the Massage Therapist salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Massage Therapists in Washington earn 43% above the national median of $57,950, with a state median of $82,820.
How many Massage Therapists work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 3,590 Massage Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to Washington 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Massage Therapist license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.