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Mississippi Massage Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)

Ordinary individual license; inactive and retired are statuses of this license. MSBMT's December 4, 2025 FAQ expressly says it issues no specialty licenses.

Licensing authority: Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy · Application information

Discretionary reinstatement following disciplinary appeal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Character And Background
Good moral character, competency, and fingerprint-based Mississippi and FBI criminal-record checks under Rule 4.1.F.
Communicable Disease Training
Approved communicable-disease course, including HIV/AIDS prevention (Rule 4.1.I).
Cpr First Aid
Current Board-approved CPR and first aid certification with at least eight hours of training and applicable hands-on evaluation (Rules 4.1.H and 1.4.J).
Disability Law
Documentation of familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (Rule 4.1.H).
Disciplinary Order
The Board may grant reinstatement after a disciplinary appeal. Rule 8.7.B assigns no examination to that pathway. Section 73-67-23(4) permits an unspecified Board-approved reexamination: it is an applicant condition, not an identified examination leaf.
Discontinued Scores
Previously obtained NCETMB scores are prior evidence, because NCBTMB's licensing examinations ended February 1, 2015. NESL, ABTE and MSPLE are also discontinued alternatives named in Rule 1.4.F.5; any prior acceptance is subject to the Board.
Fees And Application
Complete application, required fees, and official transcripts must meet the Board's application deadline; an exam application does not replace the licensure application.
Foreign Training
The December 4, 2025 Board FAQ requires certified transcripts, curriculum verification and a school handbook for foreign education. Applicants licensed only in another country follow the first-time rules; qualifying experience and licensure in a US jurisdiction may support the reciprocity route.
General Education
High-school graduate equivalency (Rule 4.1.C).
Legal Status
Legal status to receive the license and work in Mississippi (Rule 4.1.D).
Massage Education
Direct official certified transcripts must document Board-approved education and a C or better in each course. Section 73-67-35(1) specifies 550 instructional hours plus at least 50 clinic hours. Rule 4.2.B likewise says 600 total, but its detailed subject listings specify 200 theory/practicum, 200 science, 200 allied modalities and 100 clinic hours; applicants should have the Board verify the applicable transcript requirements.
Minimum Age
At least 18 when applying (Rule 4.1.B).
Msle Waiver
A graduate of a Board-approved school may request an MSLE waiver if not practicing in Mississippi (Rule 4.4.B).
Old Msle Score
If a first-time applicant completed a Mississippi program and passed MSLE more than 24 months before applying, Rule 5.1.A.6 requires a Board-approved three-hour Mississippi law CEU course or retaking and passing MSLE.
Open Exam Approval
Other state, nationally or internationally accredited examinations require individual Board approval; unnamed alternatives are applicant conditions (Rule 1.4.F.4).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-27.

Reapplication following disciplinary action

All of the following:

Character And Background
Good moral character, competency, and fingerprint-based Mississippi and FBI criminal-record checks under Rule 4.1.F.
Communicable Disease Training
Approved communicable-disease course, including HIV/AIDS prevention (Rule 4.1.I).
Cpr First Aid
Current Board-approved CPR and first aid certification with at least eight hours of training and applicable hands-on evaluation (Rules 4.1.H and 1.4.J).
Disability Law
Documentation of familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (Rule 4.1.H).
Disciplinary Order
Rule 8.7.A says a suspended person may reapply one year after revocation unless the order otherwise provides; the rule uses both terms, so the applicable order determines the waiting period. All current licensing requirements and fees apply.
Discontinued Scores
Previously obtained NCETMB scores are prior evidence, because NCBTMB's licensing examinations ended February 1, 2015. NESL, ABTE and MSPLE are also discontinued alternatives named in Rule 1.4.F.5; any prior acceptance is subject to the Board.
Fees And Application
Complete application, required fees, and official transcripts must meet the Board's application deadline; an exam application does not replace the licensure application.
Foreign Training
The December 4, 2025 Board FAQ requires certified transcripts, curriculum verification and a school handbook for foreign education. Applicants licensed only in another country follow the first-time rules; qualifying experience and licensure in a US jurisdiction may support the reciprocity route.
General Education
High-school graduate equivalency (Rule 4.1.C).
Legal Status
Legal status to receive the license and work in Mississippi (Rule 4.1.D).
Massage Education
Direct official certified transcripts must document Board-approved education and a C or better in each course. Section 73-67-35(1) specifies 550 instructional hours plus at least 50 clinic hours. Rule 4.2.B likewise says 600 total, but its detailed subject listings specify 200 theory/practicum, 200 science, 200 allied modalities and 100 clinic hours; applicants should have the Board verify the applicable transcript requirements.
Minimum Age
At least 18 when applying (Rule 4.1.B).
Msle Waiver
A graduate of a Board-approved school may request an MSLE waiver if not practicing in Mississippi (Rule 4.4.B).
Old Msle Score
If a first-time applicant completed a Mississippi program and passed MSLE more than 24 months before applying, Rule 5.1.A.6 requires a Board-approved three-hour Mississippi law CEU course or retaking and passing MSLE.
Open Exam Approval
Other state, nationally or internationally accredited examinations require individual Board approval; unnamed alternatives are applicant conditions (Rule 1.4.F.4).
Reinstatement after three years expired

All of the following:

Character And Background
Good moral character, competency, and fingerprint-based Mississippi and FBI criminal-record checks under Rule 4.1.F.
Communicable Disease Training
Approved communicable-disease course, including HIV/AIDS prevention (Rule 4.1.I).
Cpr First Aid
Current Board-approved CPR and first aid certification with at least eight hours of training and applicable hands-on evaluation (Rules 4.1.H and 1.4.J).
Disability Law
Documentation of familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (Rule 4.1.H).
Discontinued Scores
Previously obtained NCETMB scores are prior evidence, because NCBTMB's licensing examinations ended February 1, 2015. NESL, ABTE and MSPLE are also discontinued alternatives named in Rule 1.4.F.5; any prior acceptance is subject to the Board.
Fees And Application
Complete application, required fees, and official transcripts must meet the Board's application deadline; an exam application does not replace the licensure application.
Foreign Training
The December 4, 2025 Board FAQ requires certified transcripts, curriculum verification and a school handbook for foreign education. Applicants licensed only in another country follow the first-time rules; qualifying experience and licensure in a US jurisdiction may support the reciprocity route.
General Education
High-school graduate equivalency (Rule 4.1.C).
Legal Status
Legal status to receive the license and work in Mississippi (Rule 4.1.D).
Massage Education
Direct official certified transcripts must document Board-approved education and a C or better in each course. Section 73-67-35(1) specifies 550 instructional hours plus at least 50 clinic hours. Rule 4.2.B likewise says 600 total, but its detailed subject listings specify 200 theory/practicum, 200 science, 200 allied modalities and 100 clinic hours; applicants should have the Board verify the applicable transcript requirements.
Minimum Age
At least 18 when applying (Rule 4.1.B).
Msle Waiver
A graduate of a Board-approved school may request an MSLE waiver if not practicing in Mississippi (Rule 4.4.B).
Old Msle Score
If a first-time applicant completed a Mississippi program and passed MSLE more than 24 months before applying, Rule 5.1.A.6 requires a Board-approved three-hour Mississippi law CEU course or retaking and passing MSLE.
Open Exam Approval
Other state, nationally or internationally accredited examinations require individual Board approval; unnamed alternatives are applicant conditions (Rule 1.4.F.4).
Prior License
Submit MT.01 and meet Chapter 4 as a new applicant, with catch-up CE capped at 60 hours under the current rule. The older FAQ retains a larger-hours calculation; the current regulation controls.
Reinstatement after more than 90 days and less than three years expired
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Certification
Current CPR/first aid certification is required.
Continuing Education
Twelve CE hours each calendar year, 24 per renewal: three Mississippi law, three ethics, three CPR/first aid, one human-trafficking hour, and fourteen remaining hours in approved subjects; credits do not expire.
Delay
Submit paper renewal, current renewal fee and reapplication fee; demonstrate all CE that would have applied while active.
Fees
Pay renewal fee and any applicable late or paper fee; no practice after expiration until renewed.
Filing
Use the current form or online renewal window; pending disciplinary action or unposted CE and unpaid fines may prevent online renewal, and affidavit disclosures require detail within five days.
License Status
Current license is renewed through May 31 of the second year following issuance or renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-27.

Reactivation within three years of inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Status
Return within three years; file renewal, pay renewal and reapplication fees and show CE for the last two active years plus subsequent calendar years. CE credits do not expire while inactive; after three years the license expires and new-applicant requirements apply.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-27.

Placement on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Status
Request on the Board affidavit, surrender the license, pay fees, and do not perform massage for compensation in Mississippi. No license is issued while inactive; status lasts at most three years without reexamination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-27.

Initial licensure by examination

All of the following:

Character And Background
Good moral character, competency, and fingerprint-based Mississippi and FBI criminal-record checks under Rule 4.1.F.
Communicable Disease Training
Approved communicable-disease course, including HIV/AIDS prevention (Rule 4.1.I).
Cpr First Aid
Current Board-approved CPR and first aid certification with at least eight hours of training and applicable hands-on evaluation (Rules 4.1.H and 1.4.J).
Disability Law
Documentation of familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (Rule 4.1.H).
Discontinued Scores
Previously obtained NCETMB scores are prior evidence, because NCBTMB's licensing examinations ended February 1, 2015. NESL, ABTE and MSPLE are also discontinued alternatives named in Rule 1.4.F.5; any prior acceptance is subject to the Board.
Fees And Application
Complete application, required fees, and official transcripts must meet the Board's application deadline; an exam application does not replace the licensure application.
Foreign Training
The December 4, 2025 Board FAQ requires certified transcripts, curriculum verification and a school handbook for foreign education. Applicants licensed only in another country follow the first-time rules; qualifying experience and licensure in a US jurisdiction may support the reciprocity route.
General Education
High-school graduate equivalency (Rule 4.1.C).
Legal Status
Legal status to receive the license and work in Mississippi (Rule 4.1.D).
Massage Education
Direct official certified transcripts must document Board-approved education and a C or better in each course. Section 73-67-35(1) specifies 550 instructional hours plus at least 50 clinic hours. Rule 4.2.B likewise says 600 total, but its detailed subject listings specify 200 theory/practicum, 200 science, 200 allied modalities and 100 clinic hours; applicants should have the Board verify the applicable transcript requirements.
Minimum Age
At least 18 when applying (Rule 4.1.B).
Msle Waiver
A graduate of a Board-approved school may request an MSLE waiver if not practicing in Mississippi (Rule 4.4.B).
Old Msle Score
If a first-time applicant completed a Mississippi program and passed MSLE more than 24 months before applying, Rule 5.1.A.6 requires a Board-approved three-hour Mississippi law CEU course or retaking and passing MSLE.
Open Exam Approval
Other state, nationally or internationally accredited examinations require individual Board approval; unnamed alternatives are applicant conditions (Rule 1.4.F.4).
Initial licensure with education obtained outside the United States

All of the following:

Character And Background
Good moral character, competency, and fingerprint-based Mississippi and FBI criminal-record checks under Rule 4.1.F.
Communicable Disease Training
Approved communicable-disease course, including HIV/AIDS prevention (Rule 4.1.I).
Cpr First Aid
Current Board-approved CPR and first aid certification with at least eight hours of training and applicable hands-on evaluation (Rules 4.1.H and 1.4.J).
Disability Law
Documentation of familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (Rule 4.1.H).
Discontinued Scores
Previously obtained NCETMB scores are prior evidence, because NCBTMB's licensing examinations ended February 1, 2015. NESL, ABTE and MSPLE are also discontinued alternatives named in Rule 1.4.F.5; any prior acceptance is subject to the Board.
Fees And Application
Complete application, required fees, and official transcripts must meet the Board's application deadline; an exam application does not replace the licensure application.
Foreign Training
The December 4, 2025 Board FAQ requires certified transcripts, curriculum verification and a school handbook for foreign education. Applicants licensed only in another country follow the first-time rules; qualifying experience and licensure in a US jurisdiction may support the reciprocity route.
General Education
High-school graduate equivalency (Rule 4.1.C).
Legal Status
Legal status to receive the license and work in Mississippi (Rule 4.1.D).
Massage Education
Direct official certified transcripts must document Board-approved education and a C or better in each course. Section 73-67-35(1) specifies 550 instructional hours plus at least 50 clinic hours. Rule 4.2.B likewise says 600 total, but its detailed subject listings specify 200 theory/practicum, 200 science, 200 allied modalities and 100 clinic hours; applicants should have the Board verify the applicable transcript requirements.
Minimum Age
At least 18 when applying (Rule 4.1.B).
Msle Waiver
A graduate of a Board-approved school may request an MSLE waiver if not practicing in Mississippi (Rule 4.4.B).
Old Msle Score
If a first-time applicant completed a Mississippi program and passed MSLE more than 24 months before applying, Rule 5.1.A.6 requires a Board-approved three-hour Mississippi law CEU course or retaking and passing MSLE.
Open Exam Approval
Other state, nationally or internationally accredited examinations require individual Board approval; unnamed alternatives are applicant conditions (Rule 1.4.F.4).
Late renewal within 90 days
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Certification
Current CPR/first aid certification is required.
Continuing Education
Twelve CE hours each calendar year, 24 per renewal: three Mississippi law, three ethics, three CPR/first aid, one human-trafficking hour, and fourteen remaining hours in approved subjects; credits do not expire.
Delay
Expiration of no more than 90 days; pay renewal and applicable late fees.
Fees
Pay renewal fee and any applicable late or paper fee; no practice after expiration until renewed.
Filing
Use the current form or online renewal window; pending disciplinary action or unposted CE and unpaid fines may prevent online renewal, and affidavit disclosures require detail within five days.
License Status
Current license is renewed through May 31 of the second year following issuance or renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-27.

Military Family Freedom Act: existing license
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Board Rule Demands
Rule 4.6 retains older requirements for military-trained and spouse applicants. The statute's superseding eligibility controls; applicants should disclose the Board's stated demands: Rule 4.6 Military Family Freedom Act. All requirements of 73-67-25 and 73-50-1, known as the Military Family Freedom Act, shall be met where applicable. A. For a military-trained applicant who has been awarded a military occupational specialty that is substantially within the scope of massage therapy in Mississippi, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above, and has done all of the following at a level that is substantially equivalent to or exceeds the requirements for licensure: must provide evidence of the completion of a military program of training in the military occupational specialty, must show proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must take and pass the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in the military occupational specialty for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant experience of a military service member in the discharge of official duties shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. B. For a military spouse who is licensed by and in good standing with another jurisdiction’s regulatory board, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above: must show evidence that the applicant is a legal spouse of an active member of the military, must show competency through proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must show competency by taking and passing the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in massage therapy for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant 29 experience of a military spouse, including full-time and part-time experience, regardless of whether in a paid or volunteer capacity, shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. Source: Miss Code Ann. § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (i), as amended; § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (ii), as amended; § 73-67-17 (f), as amended; § 73-67-25, as amended; §73-50-1, as amended; §73-50- 2, as amended
Jurisprudence
Section 73-50-1(5) permits the Board's Mississippi jurisprudence requirement; Rule 4.4 and Rule 5.1 identify MSLE.
License Held
Current valid license in another state with a similar scope, held for at least one year; applicant is a military member, spouse or dependent.
Military Eligibility
Applicant is a military member, spouse, or dependent within Section 73-50-1.
Other Testing
Military testing or equivalent training and experience and examinations of another jurisdiction are eligibility evidence; no specific currently offered US nationwide massage examination is identified by the statute for this route.
Statutory Screening
Meet Section 73-50-1(3)(c)-(f): good standing and no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no negligent or misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.
Military active duty license extension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Military Service
Qualifying National Guard or US Armed Forces reserve member called to federal active duty; provide required activation and return orders. The statutory extension lasts through active service and 90 days after return, with applicable renewal provisions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-27.

Military Family Freedom Act: military occupational specialty
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Board Rule Demands
Rule 4.6 retains older requirements for military-trained and spouse applicants. The statute's superseding eligibility controls; applicants should disclose the Board's stated demands: Rule 4.6 Military Family Freedom Act. All requirements of 73-67-25 and 73-50-1, known as the Military Family Freedom Act, shall be met where applicable. A. For a military-trained applicant who has been awarded a military occupational specialty that is substantially within the scope of massage therapy in Mississippi, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above, and has done all of the following at a level that is substantially equivalent to or exceeds the requirements for licensure: must provide evidence of the completion of a military program of training in the military occupational specialty, must show proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must take and pass the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in the military occupational specialty for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant experience of a military service member in the discharge of official duties shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. B. For a military spouse who is licensed by and in good standing with another jurisdiction’s regulatory board, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above: must show evidence that the applicant is a legal spouse of an active member of the military, must show competency through proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must show competency by taking and passing the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in massage therapy for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant 29 experience of a military spouse, including full-time and part-time experience, regardless of whether in a paid or volunteer capacity, shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. Source: Miss Code Ann. § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (i), as amended; § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (ii), as amended; § 73-67-17 (f), as amended; § 73-67-25, as amended; §73-50-1, as amended; §73-50- 2, as amended
Jurisprudence
Section 73-50-1(5) permits the Board's Mississippi jurisprudence requirement; Rule 4.4 and Rule 5.1 identify MSLE.
Military Eligibility
Applicant is a military member, spouse, or dependent within Section 73-50-1.
Military Training
Awarded an applicable military occupational specialty, completed its training and testing or equivalent training and experience, and performed in the specialty.
Other Testing
Military testing or equivalent training and experience and examinations of another jurisdiction are eligibility evidence; no specific currently offered US nationwide massage examination is identified by the statute for this route.
Statutory Screening
Meet Section 73-50-1(3)(c)-(f): good standing and no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no negligent or misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.
Military Family Freedom Act: unregulated jurisdiction experience
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Board Rule Demands
Rule 4.6 retains older requirements for military-trained and spouse applicants. The statute's superseding eligibility controls; applicants should disclose the Board's stated demands: Rule 4.6 Military Family Freedom Act. All requirements of 73-67-25 and 73-50-1, known as the Military Family Freedom Act, shall be met where applicable. A. For a military-trained applicant who has been awarded a military occupational specialty that is substantially within the scope of massage therapy in Mississippi, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above, and has done all of the following at a level that is substantially equivalent to or exceeds the requirements for licensure: must provide evidence of the completion of a military program of training in the military occupational specialty, must show proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must take and pass the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in the military occupational specialty for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant experience of a military service member in the discharge of official duties shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. B. For a military spouse who is licensed by and in good standing with another jurisdiction’s regulatory board, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above: must show evidence that the applicant is a legal spouse of an active member of the military, must show competency through proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must show competency by taking and passing the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in massage therapy for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant 29 experience of a military spouse, including full-time and part-time experience, regardless of whether in a paid or volunteer capacity, shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. Source: Miss Code Ann. § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (i), as amended; § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (ii), as amended; § 73-67-17 (f), as amended; § 73-67-25, as amended; §73-50-1, as amended; §73-50- 2, as amended
Experience
At least three years in the lawful occupation where no licensing requirement applied, with a similar Mississippi scope.
Jurisprudence
Section 73-50-1(5) permits the Board's Mississippi jurisprudence requirement; Rule 4.4 and Rule 5.1 identify MSLE.
Military Eligibility
Applicant is a military member, spouse, or dependent within Section 73-50-1.
Other Testing
Military testing or equivalent training and experience and examinations of another jurisdiction are eligibility evidence; no specific currently offered US nationwide massage examination is identified by the statute for this route.
Statutory Screening
Meet Section 73-50-1(3)(c)-(f): good standing and no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no negligent or misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.
Reciprocity from a regulated jurisdiction

All of the following:

Character And Background
Good moral character, competency, and fingerprint-based Mississippi and FBI criminal-record checks under Rule 4.1.F.
Communicable Disease Training
Approved communicable-disease course, including HIV/AIDS prevention (Rule 4.1.I).
Cpr First Aid
Current Board-approved CPR and first aid certification with at least eight hours of training and applicable hands-on evaluation (Rules 4.1.H and 1.4.J).
Disability Law
Documentation of familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (Rule 4.1.H).
Discontinued Scores
Previously obtained NCETMB scores are prior evidence, because NCBTMB's licensing examinations ended February 1, 2015. NESL, ABTE and MSPLE are also discontinued alternatives named in Rule 1.4.F.5; any prior acceptance is subject to the Board.
Experience
At least three years of lawful massage therapy work experience; submit a timeline of schooling, examinations, work and residency.
Fees And Application
Complete application, required fees, and official transcripts must meet the Board's application deadline; an exam application does not replace the licensure application.
General Education
High-school graduate equivalency (Rule 4.1.C).
Legal Status
Legal status to receive the license and work in Mississippi (Rule 4.1.D).
License Held
Current license in good standing with the jurisdiction's regulatory board; substantially equivalent standards subject to Board investigation; grandfathered licenses are excluded.
Minimum Age
At least 18 when applying (Rule 4.1.B).
Msle Waiver
A graduate of a Board-approved school may request an MSLE waiver if not practicing in Mississippi (Rule 4.4.B).
Old Msle Score
If a first-time applicant completed a Mississippi program and passed MSLE more than 24 months before applying, Rule 5.1.A.6 requires a Board-approved three-hour Mississippi law CEU course or retaking and passing MSLE.
Open Exam Approval
Other state, nationally or internationally accredited examinations require individual Board approval; unnamed alternatives are applicant conditions (Rule 1.4.F.4).
Transcripts
Certified transcripts are required. A currently accredited school in good standing may document at least 500 in-class hours; non-accredited training is reviewed against current curriculum and additional training may be required. A school not approved by the named regulators is unacceptable; closed-school records require an acceptable custodian.
Reciprocity based on experience in an unregulated jurisdiction

All of the following:

Character And Background
Good moral character, competency, and fingerprint-based Mississippi and FBI criminal-record checks under Rule 4.1.F.
Communicable Disease Training
Approved communicable-disease course, including HIV/AIDS prevention (Rule 4.1.I).
Cpr First Aid
Current Board-approved CPR and first aid certification with at least eight hours of training and applicable hands-on evaluation (Rules 4.1.H and 1.4.J).
Disability Law
Documentation of familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (Rule 4.1.H).
Discontinued Scores
Previously obtained NCETMB scores are prior evidence, because NCBTMB's licensing examinations ended February 1, 2015. NESL, ABTE and MSPLE are also discontinued alternatives named in Rule 1.4.F.5; any prior acceptance is subject to the Board.
Experience
At least three years of lawful massage therapy work experience; submit a timeline of schooling, examinations, work and residency.
Fees And Application
Complete application, required fees, and official transcripts must meet the Board's application deadline; an exam application does not replace the licensure application.
General Education
High-school graduate equivalency (Rule 4.1.C).
Legal Status
Legal status to receive the license and work in Mississippi (Rule 4.1.D).
Minimum Age
At least 18 when applying (Rule 4.1.B).
Msle Waiver
A graduate of a Board-approved school may request an MSLE waiver if not practicing in Mississippi (Rule 4.4.B).
Old Msle Score
If a first-time applicant completed a Mississippi program and passed MSLE more than 24 months before applying, Rule 5.1.A.6 requires a Board-approved three-hour Mississippi law CEU course or retaking and passing MSLE.
Open Exam Approval
Other state, nationally or internationally accredited examinations require individual Board approval; unnamed alternatives are applicant conditions (Rule 1.4.F.4).
Transcripts
Certified transcripts are required. A currently accredited school in good standing may document at least 500 in-class hours; non-accredited training is reviewed against current curriculum and additional training may be required. A school not approved by the named regulators is unacceptable; closed-school records require an acceptable custodian.
Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Certification
Current CPR/first aid certification is required.
Continuing Education
Twelve CE hours each calendar year, 24 per renewal: three Mississippi law, three ethics, three CPR/first aid, one human-trafficking hour, and fourteen remaining hours in approved subjects; credits do not expire.
Fees
Pay renewal fee and any applicable late or paper fee; no practice after expiration until renewed.
Filing
Use the current form or online renewal window; pending disciplinary action or unposted CE and unpaid fines may prevent online renewal, and affidavit disclosures require detail within five days.
License Status
Current license is renewed through May 31 of the second year following issuance or renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-27.

Reactivation from retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Status
File renewal and pay the renewal fee, plus a reapplication fee when retired for three years or fewer; demonstrate CE for the final two active years and subsequent calendar years. CE credits do not expire. Rule 6.1.L does not impose the new-applicant rule applied to expired licenses.
Statutory Discretion
Section 73-67-23(4) permits an unspecified Board-approved reexamination after more than 36 months voluntarily unlicensed; no particular currently offered examination is assigned by the retirement-reactivation rule.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-27.

Placement on retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Status
Hold a Mississippi massage license for five years, with no fines or penalties in the last three active years; request retirement and surrender the license. No license is issued and no practice is authorized while retired; the status may last indefinitely. An eligible inactive licensee may request retired status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-02-27.

Universal recognition: existing license
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Application
The Board affidavit requires a completed MT.01, paid fees, cleared state and federal fingerprint background checks, and MSLE.
License Held
Current valid license in good standing in an occupation with similar scope, held for at least one year; the other jurisdiction verifies its minimum education and applicable work, exam and clinical-supervision requirements were met.
Prior Qualifications
Education, work, examination and clinical-supervision requirements satisfied for the previous license are qualifications verified by the issuing jurisdiction; no particular additional comprehensive exam is identified for this recognition route.
Residence
Establish Mississippi residence using the documentation permitted by Section 73-50-2(6).
Statutory Screening
Satisfy Section 73-50-2(3)(c)-(f): no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.
Universal recognition: unregulated jurisdiction experience
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Application
The Board affidavit requires a completed MT.01, paid fees, cleared state and federal fingerprint background checks, and MSLE.
Experience
At least three years of work in the lawful occupation where no license was required; demonstrate the similar scope to the Board.
Prior Qualifications
Education, work, examination and clinical-supervision requirements satisfied for the previous license are qualifications verified by the issuing jurisdiction; no particular additional comprehensive exam is identified for this recognition route.
Residence
Establish Mississippi residence using the documentation permitted by Section 73-50-2(6).
Statutory Screening
Satisfy Section 73-50-2(3)(c)-(f): no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.

Mississippi Massage Therapy Provisional Permit

Licensing authority: Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy · Application information

First time applicant provisional permit
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Comprehensive Exam
A comprehensive passing score may remain pending; completing full licensure is a separate application requirement.
Duration
Up to 90 days, subject to Board approval and any statutory scope limitations.
Msle
Pass MSLE before the provisional permit is issued.
Pending Documentation
All non-exam licensing requirements must be met and fees paid; the Board may allow practice pending completion of licensure documentation.
First time applicant provisional permit extension

All of the following:

Comprehensive Exam
A comprehensive passing score may remain pending; completing full licensure is a separate application requirement.
Duration
Up to 90 days, subject to Board approval and any statutory scope limitations.
Extension
Apply no sooner than 15 days before expiry, pay the fee and prove a Board Comprehensive Examination was taken and failed during the initial permit; maximum two 90-day periods. The comprehensive-exam leaves describe the exam involved, and this extension requires a failed attempt rather than a passing score.
Msle
Pass MSLE before the provisional permit is issued.
Pending Documentation
All non-exam licensing requirements must be met and fees paid; the Board may allow practice pending completion of licensure documentation.
Reciprocity applicant provisional permit
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Comprehensive Exam
A comprehensive passing score may remain pending; completing full licensure is a separate application requirement.
Duration
Up to 90 days, subject to Board approval and any statutory scope limitations.
License Held
Applicant holds another jurisdiction's license with substantially equivalent standards as approved by the Board.
Msle
Pass MSLE before the provisional permit is issued.
Pending Documentation
All non-exam licensing requirements must be met and fees paid; the Board may allow practice pending completion of licensure documentation.
Reciprocity applicant provisional permit extension

All of the following:

Comprehensive Exam
A comprehensive passing score may remain pending; completing full licensure is a separate application requirement.
Duration
Up to 90 days, subject to Board approval and any statutory scope limitations.
Extension
Apply no sooner than 15 days before expiry, pay the fee and prove a Board Comprehensive Examination was taken and failed during the initial permit; maximum two 90-day periods. The comprehensive-exam leaves describe the exam involved, and this extension requires a failed attempt rather than a passing score.
License Held
Applicant holds another jurisdiction's license with substantially equivalent standards as approved by the Board.
Msle
Pass MSLE before the provisional permit is issued.
Pending Documentation
All non-exam licensing requirements must be met and fees paid; the Board may allow practice pending completion of licensure documentation.

Temporary Practice Permit

Licensing authority: Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy · Application information

Military temporary practice permit: license
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Board Rule Demands
Rule 4.6 retains older requirements for military-trained and spouse applicants. The statute's superseding eligibility controls; applicants should disclose the Board's stated demands: Rule 4.6 Military Family Freedom Act. All requirements of 73-67-25 and 73-50-1, known as the Military Family Freedom Act, shall be met where applicable. A. For a military-trained applicant who has been awarded a military occupational specialty that is substantially within the scope of massage therapy in Mississippi, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above, and has done all of the following at a level that is substantially equivalent to or exceeds the requirements for licensure: must provide evidence of the completion of a military program of training in the military occupational specialty, must show proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must take and pass the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in the military occupational specialty for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant experience of a military service member in the discharge of official duties shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. B. For a military spouse who is licensed by and in good standing with another jurisdiction’s regulatory board, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above: must show evidence that the applicant is a legal spouse of an active member of the military, must show competency through proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must show competency by taking and passing the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in massage therapy for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant 29 experience of a military spouse, including full-time and part-time experience, regardless of whether in a paid or volunteer capacity, shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. Source: Miss Code Ann. § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (i), as amended; § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (ii), as amended; § 73-67-17 (f), as amended; § 73-67-25, as amended; §73-50-1, as amended; §73-50- 2, as amended
Jurisprudence
Section 73-50-1(5) permits the Board's Mississippi jurisprudence requirement; Rule 4.4 and Rule 5.1 identify MSLE.
Military Eligibility
Applicant is a military member, spouse, or dependent within Section 73-50-1.
Other Testing
Military testing or equivalent training and experience and examinations of another jurisdiction are eligibility evidence; no specific currently offered US nationwide massage examination is identified by the statute for this route.
Statutory Screening
Meet Section 73-50-1(3)(c)-(f): good standing and no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no negligent or misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.
Temporary Permit
If processing takes longer than two weeks, submit the statutory eligibility affidavit and fees; permit issued within 30 days and allows practice pending grant or denial. It expires after 365 days if the applicable jurisprudence requirement remains unsatisfied.
Military temporary practice permit: training
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Board Rule Demands
Rule 4.6 retains older requirements for military-trained and spouse applicants. The statute's superseding eligibility controls; applicants should disclose the Board's stated demands: Rule 4.6 Military Family Freedom Act. All requirements of 73-67-25 and 73-50-1, known as the Military Family Freedom Act, shall be met where applicable. A. For a military-trained applicant who has been awarded a military occupational specialty that is substantially within the scope of massage therapy in Mississippi, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above, and has done all of the following at a level that is substantially equivalent to or exceeds the requirements for licensure: must provide evidence of the completion of a military program of training in the military occupational specialty, must show proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must take and pass the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in the military occupational specialty for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant experience of a military service member in the discharge of official duties shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. B. For a military spouse who is licensed by and in good standing with another jurisdiction’s regulatory board, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above: must show evidence that the applicant is a legal spouse of an active member of the military, must show competency through proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must show competency by taking and passing the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in massage therapy for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant 29 experience of a military spouse, including full-time and part-time experience, regardless of whether in a paid or volunteer capacity, shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. Source: Miss Code Ann. § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (i), as amended; § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (ii), as amended; § 73-67-17 (f), as amended; § 73-67-25, as amended; §73-50-1, as amended; §73-50- 2, as amended
Jurisprudence
Section 73-50-1(5) permits the Board's Mississippi jurisprudence requirement; Rule 4.4 and Rule 5.1 identify MSLE.
Military Eligibility
Applicant is a military member, spouse, or dependent within Section 73-50-1.
Other Testing
Military testing or equivalent training and experience and examinations of another jurisdiction are eligibility evidence; no specific currently offered US nationwide massage examination is identified by the statute for this route.
Statutory Screening
Meet Section 73-50-1(3)(c)-(f): good standing and no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no negligent or misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.
Temporary Permit
If processing takes longer than two weeks, submit the statutory eligibility affidavit and fees; permit issued within 30 days and allows practice pending grant or denial. It expires after 365 days if the applicable jurisprudence requirement remains unsatisfied.
Military temporary practice permit: work experience
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Board Rule Demands
Rule 4.6 retains older requirements for military-trained and spouse applicants. The statute's superseding eligibility controls; applicants should disclose the Board's stated demands: Rule 4.6 Military Family Freedom Act. All requirements of 73-67-25 and 73-50-1, known as the Military Family Freedom Act, shall be met where applicable. A. For a military-trained applicant who has been awarded a military occupational specialty that is substantially within the scope of massage therapy in Mississippi, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above, and has done all of the following at a level that is substantially equivalent to or exceeds the requirements for licensure: must provide evidence of the completion of a military program of training in the military occupational specialty, must show proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must take and pass the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in the military occupational specialty for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant experience of a military service member in the discharge of official duties shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. B. For a military spouse who is licensed by and in good standing with another jurisdiction’s regulatory board, and who chooses not to apply for licensure under the reciprocity paragraphs 1 or 2 above: must show evidence that the applicant is a legal spouse of an active member of the military, must show competency through proof of passing scores from a Board Comprehensive Examination, must show competency by taking and passing the Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) offered by the Board, and Must show proof of work experience in massage therapy for at least two (2) of the five (5) years preceding the date of the application for licensure with the Board. All relevant 29 experience of a military spouse, including full-time and part-time experience, regardless of whether in a paid or volunteer capacity, shall be credited in the calculation of years of practice. Source: Miss Code Ann. § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (i), as amended; § 73-67-15 (1) (m) (ii), as amended; § 73-67-17 (f), as amended; § 73-67-25, as amended; §73-50-1, as amended; §73-50- 2, as amended
Jurisprudence
Section 73-50-1(5) permits the Board's Mississippi jurisprudence requirement; Rule 4.4 and Rule 5.1 identify MSLE.
Military Eligibility
Applicant is a military member, spouse, or dependent within Section 73-50-1.
Other Testing
Military testing or equivalent training and experience and examinations of another jurisdiction are eligibility evidence; no specific currently offered US nationwide massage examination is identified by the statute for this route.
Statutory Screening
Meet Section 73-50-1(3)(c)-(f): good standing and no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no negligent or misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.
Temporary Permit
If processing takes longer than two weeks, submit the statutory eligibility affidavit and fees; permit issued within 30 days and allows practice pending grant or denial. It expires after 365 days if the applicable jurisprudence requirement remains unsatisfied.
Universal recognition temporary practice permit: license
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Application
The Board affidavit requires a completed MT.01, paid fees, cleared state and federal fingerprint background checks, and MSLE.
Prior Qualifications
Education, work, examination and clinical-supervision requirements satisfied for the previous license are qualifications verified by the issuing jurisdiction; no particular additional comprehensive exam is identified for this recognition route.
Residence
Establish Mississippi residence using the documentation permitted by Section 73-50-2(6).
Statutory Screening
Satisfy Section 73-50-2(3)(c)-(f): no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.
Temporary Permit
The statute allows an eligibility affidavit for a delayed application and conditional practice pending decision; permit expires after 365 days. The Board's affidavit additionally states MSLE and background checks must be completed before issuance: h. I am taken and passed the MSBMT jurisprudence examination, paid the required fee and have cleared the state and federal fingerprint-based background check; and i. I have submitted a completed MT.01 Application for Professional Licensure; and j. I have paid all applicable fees in Mississippi.
Universal recognition temporary practice permit: work experience
Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy
Application
The Board affidavit requires a completed MT.01, paid fees, cleared state and federal fingerprint background checks, and MSLE.
Prior Qualifications
Education, work, examination and clinical-supervision requirements satisfied for the previous license are qualifications verified by the issuing jurisdiction; no particular additional comprehensive exam is identified for this recognition route.
Residence
Establish Mississippi residence using the documentation permitted by Section 73-50-2(6).
Statutory Screening
Satisfy Section 73-50-2(3)(c)-(f): no disqualifying conduct or criminal record, no misconduct surrender, resolve pending investigations, and pay applicable fees.
Temporary Permit
The statute allows an eligibility affidavit for a delayed application and conditional practice pending decision; permit expires after 365 days. The Board's affidavit additionally states MSLE and background checks must be completed before issuance: h. I am taken and passed the MSBMT jurisprudence examination, paid the required fee and have cleared the state and federal fingerprint-based background check; and i. I have submitted a completed MT.01 Application for Professional Licensure; and j. I have paid all applicable fees in Mississippi.

Mississippi Professional Examination I (MPE-1)

Provider
Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy
Exam fee
$125 per examination
Examination outline
  • Kinesiology
  • Pathology
  • Anatomy And Physiology
Examination sources

Mississippi Professional Examination II (MPE-2)

Provider
Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy
Exam fee
$125 per examination
Examination outline
  • Alled Modalities
  • Theory And Practicum
Examination sources

Mississippi State Law Examination (MSLE) — Massage Therapy

Provider
Mississippi State Board of Massage Therapy
Format
Multiple choice and/or True/False
Exam questions
100
Time limit
90 minutes
Passing score
70%
Exam fee
$100
Examination outline
  • Chapter 1 General Provisions (8%)
  • Chapter 2 Fees (8%)
  • Chapter 3 Organization (8%)
  • Chapter 4 Licensure Requirements (12%)
  • Chapter 5 Application Procedure (4%)
  • Chapter 6 Licensing Renewal (18%)
  • Chapter 7 Professional Responsibilities (18%)
  • Chapter 8 Complaints, Disciplinary Hearings, etc. (8%)
  • Chapter 9 Schools and Instructor Qualifications (4%)
  • Chapter 10 CEU Requirements, Provider and Programs (4%)
  • Chapter 11 Massage Establishments (8%)
Examination sources

Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination

Provider
Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards; administered at Pearson VUE (Pearson Professional Centers) test centers
Format
Computer-based, fixed-length computer-adaptive test (CAT) of multiple-choice questions, each with one correct answer; offered in English and Spanish and administered year-round; results reported as PASS or FAIL, with a diagnostic report by content area for failing candidates
Exam questions
100 multiple-choice questions
Time limit
110 minutes for 100 questions within a two-hour (120-minute) appointment
Passing score
Criterion-referenced passing standard adopted by the FSMTB Board of Directors; results reported as PASS or FAIL
Exam fee
$265 MBLEx application fee
Examination outline
  • Anatomy & Physiology (11%)
    • A. System structure — Cardiovascular
    • A. System structure — Digestive
    • A. System structure — Endocrine
    • A. System structure — Integumentary
    • A. System structure — Lymphatic & Immune
    • A. System structure — Musculoskeletal
    • A. System structure — Nervous
    • A. System structure — Reproduction
    • A. System structure — Respiratory
    • A. System structure — Sensory
    • A. System structure — Urinary
    • B. System function — Cardiovascular
    • B. System function — Digestion
    • B. System function — Endocrine
    • B. System function — Integumentary
    • B. System function — Lymphatic & Immune
    • B. System function — Musculoskeletal
    • B. System function — Nervous
    • B. System function — Reproduction
    • B. System function — Respiratory
    • B. System function — Sensory
    • B. System function — Urinary
    • C. Tissue injury and repair
    • D. Concepts of energetic anatomy
  • Kinesiology (12%)
    • A. Skeletal muscle components & characteristics
    • B. Concepts of skeletal muscle contractions
    • C. Proprioceptors
    • D. Skeletal muscle locations, attachments (origins, insertions), & actions
    • E. Joint structure and function
    • F. Range of motion — Active
    • F. Range of motion — Passive
    • F. Range of motion — Resisted
  • Pathology, Contraindications, Areas of Caution, Special Populations (14%)
    • A. Overview of Pathologies
    • B. Contraindications — Site specific
    • B. Contraindications — Pathology related
    • B. Contraindications — Special populations
    • B. Contraindications — Tools
    • B. Contraindications — Special applications
    • C. Areas of caution
    • D. Special populations
    • E. Classes of medications
  • Benefits and Effects of Soft Tissue Manipulation (15%)
    • A. Physiological effects of soft tissue manipulation
    • B. Psychological effects of soft tissue manipulation
    • C. Effects of soft tissue manipulation for specific client populations
    • D. Soft tissue techniques — Types of strokes
    • D. Soft tissue techniques — Sequence of application
    • E. Hot/cold applications
    • F. Overview of massage/bodywork modalities
  • Client Assessment, Reassessment & Treatment Planning (17%)
    • A. Organization of a massage/bodywork session
    • B. Client consultation and evaluation — Verbal intake
    • B. Client consultation and evaluation — Health history form
    • C. Written data collection
    • D. Visual assessment — General
    • D. Visual assessment — Postural
    • D. Visual assessment — Gait
    • E. Palpation assessment
    • F. Range of motion assessment
    • G. Clinical reasoning — Ability to rule out contraindications
    • G. Clinical reasoning — Client treatment goal setting
    • G. Clinical reasoning — Evaluation of response to previous treatment
    • G. Clinical reasoning — Formulation of treatment strategy
  • Ethics, Boundaries, Laws, Regulations (16%)
    • A. Ethical behavior
    • B. Professional boundaries
    • C. Code of ethics violations
    • D. The therapeutic relationship
    • E. Dual relationships
    • F. Sexual misconduct
    • G. Massage/bodywork-related laws and regulations
    • H. Scope of practice
    • I. Professional communication
    • J. Confidentiality
    • K. Principles
  • Guidelines for Professional Practice (15%)
    • A. Proper and safe use of equipment and supplies
    • B. Practitioner hygiene
    • C. Sanitation and cleanliness
    • D. Safety practices — Facilities
    • D. Safety practices — Practitioner safety
    • D. Safety practices — Client safety
    • E. Practitioner care — Body mechanics
    • E. Practitioner care — Personal protective equipment (PPE)
    • E. Practitioner care — Self-care
    • E. Practitioner care — Injury prevention
    • F. Draping — Safe and appropriate
    • F. Draping — Communication
    • G. Business Practices — Business planning
    • G. Business Practices — Strategic planning
    • G. Business Practices — Office management
    • G. Business Practices — Marketing
    • G. Business Practices — Hiring/Interviewing
    • G. Business Practices — Documentation & Records — Client records
    • G. Business Practices — Documentation & Records — Business records
    • H. Healthcare and business terminology
Examination sources