Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Personal Care
Massage Therapist Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for massage therapist in West Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Massage Therapist in West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore 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: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
MASSAGE THERAPY
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$42,730 median (26% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in West Virginia
With a median salary of 42,730, Massage Therapists in West Virginia earn 26% below the national median of $57,950. West Virginia ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$42,730Hourly estimate
$20.5426% below national median
Difference: -$15,220
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMassage Therapist Salary Ranking
#46 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $42,730 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $57,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $58,390 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $56,850 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $54,890 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $50,430 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 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.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | 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. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Ohio | 54 | 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
MASSAGE THERAPY
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3045581060
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $34,360 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Cosmetologist | $31,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $37,750 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $36,020 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Massage Therapist in West Virginia?
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 West Virginia?
West 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 West Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Massage Therapist licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Massage Therapist salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Massage Therapists in West Virginia is 42,730. Salaries range from $23,270 (10th percentile) to $71,740 (90th percentile).
How does the Massage Therapist salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Massage Therapists in West Virginia earn 26% below the national median of $57,950, with a state median of 42,730.
How many Massage Therapists work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 270 Massage Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Massage Therapist license to West 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is MASSAGE THERAPY. Review agency details at http://www.wvmassage.org/.