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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 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

Third-party exam required

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Massage Therapist in Washington

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Stand-alone license
  • Education: Specific course required
  • Examination: Third-party exam required
  • Application Fee: See agency
  • Experience: Work experience required
  • Background Check: Background check required
  • Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Department of Health

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $82,820 median (43% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #4 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 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 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Rising

QoQ Employment Change

+2.3%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,837

Median annual salary

$82,820

Hourly estimate

$39.82
43% above national median

Difference: +$24,870

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$59,160
  • P2525th percentile$72,210
  • P50Median$82,820
  • P7575th percentile$97,720
  • P9090th percentile$115,920

State vs National Median

State: $82,820
National: $57,950

Total employment: 3,590 | Annual openings: N/A

Massage Therapist Salary Ranking

#4 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
Washington$82,820Specific course requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
Idaho$70,470Specific course requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
Oregon$82,860Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 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
Washington50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Idaho50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Oregon78HighBoard-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

Department of Health

101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501

Phone: 3602364700

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in Washington

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Barber$70,750Degree required6-24 months
Cosmetologist$58,920Degree required6-24 months
Esthetician$64,880Degree required6-24 months
Nail Technician$47,840No educational requirements6-24 months

FAQ

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

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 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/.