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Tennessee Massage Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

US-TN · License preparation

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Temporary Massage Therapist License

Temporary form under T.C.A. 63-18-112(b); federal military portability also permits an interim temporary license.

Licensing authority: Tennessee Massage Licensure Board · Application information

Interim military portability license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Supply military orders; a spouse supplies a marriage certificate; submit the statutory notarized affidavit identifying the applicant and confirming truthful information, scope knowledge/compliance and good standing.
Compact exception
An applicable interstate-compact license follows the compact or applicable state law instead.
Covered license
License is in good standing, with no revocation or discipline, pending unprofessional-conduct investigation, or voluntary surrender during such an investigation (50 U.S.C. 4025a(f)(1)).
Interim issuance
If recognition cannot be completed within 30 days after application, the licensing authority may issue an interim temporary license with the rights, privileges and responsibilities of a permanent license.
Military relocation
Servicemember or spouse relocates residence under military orders and holds a covered professional license.
Older board form
The Board-linked form states: 3. I have actively used the license or certificate at some point during the two years immediately preceding the move to Tennessee. The December 2024 federal amendment no longer includes this two-year-use condition; it is recorded as what the Board form asks.
Scope and oversight
Read and comply with Tennessee scope requirements and submit to Board standards, discipline and continuing education; background checks are permitted.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

One temporary license extension while awaiting results
Age
At least 18 years old; submit a birth certificate or equivalent (Rule .05(1)(d)).
Application
Submit a complete truthful sworn and signed application, all documents and fees, citizenship declaration and practitioner profile. Documents must be executed within one year before receipt; provide certified English translations and originals when needed. The September 2024 paper form additionally asks for notarization.
Background check
Arrange direct submission of the state-contracted criminal background check; therapist OCA 2680.
Board review
The Board may request a health, character or educational interview and condition approval. Rule .08(2) permits preliminary temporary authorization pending full Board ratification; this is an approval stage of the requested license.
Character
Two original signed and dated letters from health professionals within the preceding 12 months, identifying credentials and contact details and attesting to character and ethics (Rule .05(1)(h)).
Disclosures
Disclose nonminor criminal convictions, license denial or discipline, loss or restrictions, malpractice/negligence/fraud judgments or settlements, and examination failures. Prostitution or sexual misconduct convictions disqualify; a Tennessee felony may disqualify (Rule .05(1)(i)).
Duration
Temporary license expires six months after issuance.
Education
Official sealed transcripts sent directly from Board-approved institutions authorized by THEC or its equivalent, or governed/approved by TBR, showing at least 650 classroom hours.
Ethics
20 classroom hours of ethics.
Exam timing
To obtain full reciprocity licensure, pass the approved competency exam and transmit verification within six months of temporary issuance; fulfill all other requirements. Statutory post-issuance timing governs instead of the ordinary pre-application rule.
Expedited military member
PH-4279 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed military member retired, discharged other than dishonorably, or released to reserves within 180 days. Provide military ID, status papers and expedited verification.
Expedited military spouse
PH-4280 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed spouse of a servicemember transferred to Tennessee. Supply identification, transfer orders and expedited verification.
Extension
Awaiting results of the most recent approved competency examination; may apply for one additional six-month term.
Lawful presence
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or were born outside the United States supply lawful-presence documentation under T.C.A. 4-58-103 and the citizenship declaration.
Massage theory and practice
300 classroom hours of massage theory and practice, including intern clinic.
Online limit
No more than 195 classroom hours online; kinesiology and hands-on coursework cannot be online.
Other approved exam
Rule .09(2)(b) accepts any other Board-approved examination; the unnamed remainder remains an applicant condition.
Other licenses
Arrange direct verification of all present or former professional licenses, including standing, from each issuing authority (Rule .05(1)(k)).
Prior license
Is or has been licensed in another state.
Qualifying license
Board discretion applies to an applicant licensed, registered or certified in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction whose reciprocity standards otherwise qualify but do not require a Board-approved competency examination.
Reciprocity training
Five classroom hours of Tennessee law and at least 20 classroom hours of ethics; not self-directed. Current Rule .05(1)(n)2 supersedes the pinned July 2025 ten-hour ethics provision.
Related subjects
125 classroom hours of related subjects.
Sciences
200 classroom hours of sciences.
Supervision
Work at all times under a person licensed pursuant to T.C.A. 63-18-105.
Tennessee law
Five classroom hours of Tennessee massage law, in person or live/real time.
One temporary license extension pending an upcoming examination
Age
At least 18 years old; submit a birth certificate or equivalent (Rule .05(1)(d)).
Application
Submit a complete truthful sworn and signed application, all documents and fees, citizenship declaration and practitioner profile. Documents must be executed within one year before receipt; provide certified English translations and originals when needed. The September 2024 paper form additionally asks for notarization.
Background check
Arrange direct submission of the state-contracted criminal background check; therapist OCA 2680.
Board review
The Board may request a health, character or educational interview and condition approval. Rule .08(2) permits preliminary temporary authorization pending full Board ratification; this is an approval stage of the requested license.
Character
Two original signed and dated letters from health professionals within the preceding 12 months, identifying credentials and contact details and attesting to character and ethics (Rule .05(1)(h)).
Disclosures
Disclose nonminor criminal convictions, license denial or discipline, loss or restrictions, malpractice/negligence/fraud judgments or settlements, and examination failures. Prostitution or sexual misconduct convictions disqualify; a Tennessee felony may disqualify (Rule .05(1)(i)).
Duration
Temporary license expires six months after issuance.
Education
Official sealed transcripts sent directly from Board-approved institutions authorized by THEC or its equivalent, or governed/approved by TBR, showing at least 650 classroom hours.
Ethics
20 classroom hours of ethics.
Exam timing
To obtain full reciprocity licensure, pass the approved competency exam and transmit verification within six months of temporary issuance; fulfill all other requirements. Statutory post-issuance timing governs instead of the ordinary pre-application rule.
Expedited military member
PH-4279 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed military member retired, discharged other than dishonorably, or released to reserves within 180 days. Provide military ID, status papers and expedited verification.
Expedited military spouse
PH-4280 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed spouse of a servicemember transferred to Tennessee. Supply identification, transfer orders and expedited verification.
Extension
Unable to take the approved examination within the original term and registered for an upcoming examination; may apply for one additional six-month term.
Lawful presence
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or were born outside the United States supply lawful-presence documentation under T.C.A. 4-58-103 and the citizenship declaration.
Massage theory and practice
300 classroom hours of massage theory and practice, including intern clinic.
Online limit
No more than 195 classroom hours online; kinesiology and hands-on coursework cannot be online.
Other approved exam
Rule .09(2)(b) accepts any other Board-approved examination; the unnamed remainder remains an applicant condition.
Other licenses
Arrange direct verification of all present or former professional licenses, including standing, from each issuing authority (Rule .05(1)(k)).
Prior license
Is or has been licensed in another state.
Qualifying license
Board discretion applies to an applicant licensed, registered or certified in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction whose reciprocity standards otherwise qualify but do not require a Board-approved competency examination.
Reciprocity training
Five classroom hours of Tennessee law and at least 20 classroom hours of ethics; not self-directed. Current Rule .05(1)(n)2 supersedes the pinned July 2025 ten-hour ethics provision.
Related subjects
125 classroom hours of related subjects.
Sciences
200 classroom hours of sciences.
Supervision
Work at all times under a person licensed pursuant to T.C.A. 63-18-105.
Tennessee law
Five classroom hours of Tennessee massage law, in person or live/real time.
Temporary licensure pending a competency examination
Age
At least 18 years old; submit a birth certificate or equivalent (Rule .05(1)(d)).
Application
Submit a complete truthful sworn and signed application, all documents and fees, citizenship declaration and practitioner profile. Documents must be executed within one year before receipt; provide certified English translations and originals when needed. The September 2024 paper form additionally asks for notarization.
Background check
Arrange direct submission of the state-contracted criminal background check; therapist OCA 2680.
Board review
The Board may request a health, character or educational interview and condition approval. Rule .08(2) permits preliminary temporary authorization pending full Board ratification; this is an approval stage of the requested license.
Character
Two original signed and dated letters from health professionals within the preceding 12 months, identifying credentials and contact details and attesting to character and ethics (Rule .05(1)(h)).
Disclosures
Disclose nonminor criminal convictions, license denial or discipline, loss or restrictions, malpractice/negligence/fraud judgments or settlements, and examination failures. Prostitution or sexual misconduct convictions disqualify; a Tennessee felony may disqualify (Rule .05(1)(i)).
Duration
Temporary license expires six months after issuance.
Education
Official sealed transcripts sent directly from Board-approved institutions authorized by THEC or its equivalent, or governed/approved by TBR, showing at least 650 classroom hours.
Ethics
20 classroom hours of ethics.
Exam timing
To obtain full reciprocity licensure, pass the approved competency exam and transmit verification within six months of temporary issuance; fulfill all other requirements. Statutory post-issuance timing governs instead of the ordinary pre-application rule.
Expedited military member
PH-4279 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed military member retired, discharged other than dishonorably, or released to reserves within 180 days. Provide military ID, status papers and expedited verification.
Expedited military spouse
PH-4280 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed spouse of a servicemember transferred to Tennessee. Supply identification, transfer orders and expedited verification.
Lawful presence
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or were born outside the United States supply lawful-presence documentation under T.C.A. 4-58-103 and the citizenship declaration.
Massage theory and practice
300 classroom hours of massage theory and practice, including intern clinic.
Online limit
No more than 195 classroom hours online; kinesiology and hands-on coursework cannot be online.
Other approved exam
Rule .09(2)(b) accepts any other Board-approved examination; the unnamed remainder remains an applicant condition.
Other licenses
Arrange direct verification of all present or former professional licenses, including standing, from each issuing authority (Rule .05(1)(k)).
Prior license
Is or has been licensed in another state.
Qualifying license
Board discretion applies to an applicant licensed, registered or certified in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction whose reciprocity standards otherwise qualify but do not require a Board-approved competency examination.
Reciprocity training
Five classroom hours of Tennessee law and at least 20 classroom hours of ethics; not self-directed. Current Rule .05(1)(n)2 supersedes the pinned July 2025 ten-hour ethics provision.
Related subjects
125 classroom hours of related subjects.
Sciences
200 classroom hours of sciences.
Supervision
Work at all times under a person licensed pursuant to T.C.A. 63-18-105.
Tennessee law
Five classroom hours of Tennessee massage law, in person or live/real time.

Licensed Massage Therapist

License for compensated massage practice; includes the Board-listed military recognition pathway.

Licensing authority: Tennessee Massage Licensure Board · Application information

Initial licensure by examination
Age
At least 18 years old; submit a birth certificate or equivalent (Rule .05(1)(d)).
Application
Submit a complete truthful sworn and signed application, all documents and fees, citizenship declaration and practitioner profile. Documents must be executed within one year before receipt; provide certified English translations and originals when needed. The September 2024 paper form additionally asks for notarization.
Background check
Arrange direct submission of the state-contracted criminal background check; therapist OCA 2680.
Board review
The Board may request a health, character or educational interview and condition approval. Rule .08(2) permits preliminary temporary authorization pending full Board ratification; this is an approval stage of the requested license.
Character
Two original signed and dated letters from health professionals within the preceding 12 months, identifying credentials and contact details and attesting to character and ethics (Rule .05(1)(h)).
Disclosures
Disclose nonminor criminal convictions, license denial or discipline, loss or restrictions, malpractice/negligence/fraud judgments or settlements, and examination failures. Prostitution or sexual misconduct convictions disqualify; a Tennessee felony may disqualify (Rule .05(1)(i)).
Education
Official sealed transcripts sent directly from Board-approved institutions authorized by THEC or its equivalent, or governed/approved by TBR, showing at least 650 classroom hours.
Ethics
20 classroom hours of ethics.
Exam timing
Pass before applying and arrange direct examining-agency transmission of verification unless a statutory pathway permits a later examination.
Expedited military member
PH-4279 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed military member retired, discharged other than dishonorably, or released to reserves within 180 days. Provide military ID, status papers and expedited verification.
Expedited military spouse
PH-4280 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed spouse of a servicemember transferred to Tennessee. Supply identification, transfer orders and expedited verification.
Lawful presence
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or were born outside the United States supply lawful-presence documentation under T.C.A. 4-58-103 and the citizenship declaration.
Massage theory and practice
300 classroom hours of massage theory and practice, including intern clinic.
Online limit
No more than 195 classroom hours online; kinesiology and hands-on coursework cannot be online.
Other approved exam
Rule .09(2)(b) accepts any other Board-approved examination; the unnamed remainder remains an applicant condition.
Other licenses
Arrange direct verification of all present or former professional licenses, including standing, from each issuing authority (Rule .05(1)(k)).
Related subjects
125 classroom hours of related subjects.
Sciences
200 classroom hours of sciences.
Tennessee law
Five classroom hours of Tennessee massage law, in person or live/real time.
Military license portability and recognition
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Supply military orders; a spouse supplies a marriage certificate; submit the statutory notarized affidavit identifying the applicant and confirming truthful information, scope knowledge/compliance and good standing.
Compact exception
An applicable interstate-compact license follows the compact or applicable state law instead.
Covered license
License is in good standing, with no revocation or discipline, pending unprofessional-conduct investigation, or voluntary surrender during such an investigation (50 U.S.C. 4025a(f)(1)).
Military relocation
Servicemember or spouse relocates residence under military orders and holds a covered professional license.
Older board form
The Board-linked form states: 3. I have actively used the license or certificate at some point during the two years immediately preceding the move to Tennessee. The December 2024 federal amendment no longer includes this two-year-use condition; it is recorded as what the Board form asks.
Scope and oversight
Read and comply with Tennessee scope requirements and submit to Board standards, discipline and continuing education; background checks are permitted.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity under T.C.A. 63 18 116(a)(2)(B)
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 18 years old; submit a birth certificate or equivalent (Rule .05(1)(d)).
Application
Submit a complete truthful sworn and signed application, all documents and fees, citizenship declaration and practitioner profile. Documents must be executed within one year before receipt; provide certified English translations and originals when needed. The September 2024 paper form additionally asks for notarization.
Background check
Arrange direct submission of the state-contracted criminal background check; therapist OCA 2680.
Board review
The Board may request a health, character or educational interview and condition approval. Rule .08(2) permits preliminary temporary authorization pending full Board ratification; this is an approval stage of the requested license.
Certification
NCBTMB directly verifies certification during the entire five-year period immediately before application. Certification is a qualification; no additional exam is inferred from it.
Character
Two original signed and dated letters from health professionals within the preceding 12 months, identifying credentials and contact details and attesting to character and ethics (Rule .05(1)(h)).
Disclosures
Disclose nonminor criminal convictions, license denial or discipline, loss or restrictions, malpractice/negligence/fraud judgments or settlements, and examination failures. Prostitution or sexual misconduct convictions disqualify; a Tennessee felony may disqualify (Rule .05(1)(i)).
Ethics
At least 20 classroom hours, not self-directed.
Expedited military member
PH-4279 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed military member retired, discharged other than dishonorably, or released to reserves within 180 days. Provide military ID, status papers and expedited verification.
Expedited military spouse
PH-4280 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed spouse of a servicemember transferred to Tennessee. Supply identification, transfer orders and expedited verification.
Graduation
Graduated from a qualified massage school or course before October 1, 1995; this statutory alternative does not incorporate subdivision (A) examination qualifications.
Lawful presence
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or were born outside the United States supply lawful-presence documentation under T.C.A. 4-58-103 and the citizenship declaration.
Other approved exam
Rule .09(2)(b) accepts any other Board-approved examination; the unnamed remainder remains an applicant condition.
Other licenses
Arrange direct verification of all present or former professional licenses, including standing, from each issuing authority (Rule .05(1)(k)).
Practice
Board-satisfactory documentation of massage practice in another state during the entire five years immediately before application.
Prior license
Is or has been licensed in another state.
Tennessee law
Five classroom hours, not self-directed; current law instruction is in person or live/real time.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity under T.C.A. 63 18 116(a)(2)(A)
Age
At least 18 years old; submit a birth certificate or equivalent (Rule .05(1)(d)).
Application
Submit a complete truthful sworn and signed application, all documents and fees, citizenship declaration and practitioner profile. Documents must be executed within one year before receipt; provide certified English translations and originals when needed. The September 2024 paper form additionally asks for notarization.
Background check
Arrange direct submission of the state-contracted criminal background check; therapist OCA 2680.
Board review
The Board may request a health, character or educational interview and condition approval. Rule .08(2) permits preliminary temporary authorization pending full Board ratification; this is an approval stage of the requested license.
Board rule exemption
The statutory examination qualification governs this pathway. The lower-ranked Board rule states: (1) With the exception of applicants qualifying pursuant to rule 0870-01-.05(1)(n)1.(ii) or rule 0870-01-.06, all persons intending to apply for licensure must successfully complete one (1) of the competency examinations adopted by the Board pursuant to this Rule as a prerequisite to licensure. Such examinations must be completed prior to application for licensure. Evidence of successful completion must be submitted by the examining agency directly to the Board Administrative Office as part of the application process contained in rule 0870-01-.05.
Certification
NCBTMB directly verifies certification during the entire five-year period immediately before application. Certification is a qualification; no additional exam is inferred from it.
Character
Two original signed and dated letters from health professionals within the preceding 12 months, identifying credentials and contact details and attesting to character and ethics (Rule .05(1)(h)).
Disclosures
Disclose nonminor criminal convictions, license denial or discipline, loss or restrictions, malpractice/negligence/fraud judgments or settlements, and examination failures. Prostitution or sexual misconduct convictions disqualify; a Tennessee felony may disqualify (Rule .05(1)(i)).
Ethics
At least 20 classroom hours, not self-directed.
Expedited military member
PH-4279 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed military member retired, discharged other than dishonorably, or released to reserves within 180 days. Provide military ID, status papers and expedited verification.
Expedited military spouse
PH-4280 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed spouse of a servicemember transferred to Tennessee. Supply identification, transfer orders and expedited verification.
Lawful presence
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or were born outside the United States supply lawful-presence documentation under T.C.A. 4-58-103 and the citizenship declaration.
Other approved exam
Rule .09(2)(b) accepts any other Board-approved examination; the unnamed remainder remains an applicant condition.
Other licenses
Arrange direct verification of all present or former professional licenses, including standing, from each issuing authority (Rule .05(1)(k)).
Practice
Board-satisfactory documentation of massage practice in another state during the entire five years immediately before application.
Prior license
Is or has been licensed in another state.
Tennessee law
Five classroom hours, not self-directed; current law instruction is in person or live/real time.
Unavailable transcript
Has met T.C.A. 63-18-105(b)(3) qualifications but cannot produce a transcript because the school was not state-approved or no longer exists. This statutory reference includes the competency-exam passing-score qualification.
Reciprocity with transcripts and a competency examination
Age
At least 18 years old; submit a birth certificate or equivalent (Rule .05(1)(d)).
Application
Submit a complete truthful sworn and signed application, all documents and fees, citizenship declaration and practitioner profile. Documents must be executed within one year before receipt; provide certified English translations and originals when needed. The September 2024 paper form additionally asks for notarization.
Background check
Arrange direct submission of the state-contracted criminal background check; therapist OCA 2680.
Board review
The Board may request a health, character or educational interview and condition approval. Rule .08(2) permits preliminary temporary authorization pending full Board ratification; this is an approval stage of the requested license.
Character
Two original signed and dated letters from health professionals within the preceding 12 months, identifying credentials and contact details and attesting to character and ethics (Rule .05(1)(h)).
Disclosures
Disclose nonminor criminal convictions, license denial or discipline, loss or restrictions, malpractice/negligence/fraud judgments or settlements, and examination failures. Prostitution or sexual misconduct convictions disqualify; a Tennessee felony may disqualify (Rule .05(1)(i)).
Education
Official sealed transcripts sent directly from Board-approved institutions authorized by THEC or its equivalent, or governed/approved by TBR, showing at least 650 classroom hours.
Ethics
20 classroom hours of ethics.
Exam timing
Pass before applying and arrange direct examining-agency transmission of verification unless a statutory pathway permits a later examination.
Expedited military member
PH-4279 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed military member retired, discharged other than dishonorably, or released to reserves within 180 days. Provide military ID, status papers and expedited verification.
Expedited military spouse
PH-4280 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed spouse of a servicemember transferred to Tennessee. Supply identification, transfer orders and expedited verification.
Lawful presence
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or were born outside the United States supply lawful-presence documentation under T.C.A. 4-58-103 and the citizenship declaration.
Massage theory and practice
300 classroom hours of massage theory and practice, including intern clinic.
Online limit
No more than 195 classroom hours online; kinesiology and hands-on coursework cannot be online.
Other approved exam
Rule .09(2)(b) accepts any other Board-approved examination; the unnamed remainder remains an applicant condition.
Other licenses
Arrange direct verification of all present or former professional licenses, including standing, from each issuing authority (Rule .05(1)(k)).
Prior license
Is or has been licensed in another state.
Reciprocity training
Five classroom hours of Tennessee law and at least 20 classroom hours of ethics; not self-directed. Current Rule .05(1)(n)2 supersedes the pinned July 2025 ten-hour ethics provision.
Related subjects
125 classroom hours of related subjects.
Sciences
200 classroom hours of sciences.
Tennessee law
Five classroom hours of Tennessee massage law, in person or live/real time.
Full reciprocity licensure following temporary licensure
Age
At least 18 years old; submit a birth certificate or equivalent (Rule .05(1)(d)).
Application
Submit a complete truthful sworn and signed application, all documents and fees, citizenship declaration and practitioner profile. Documents must be executed within one year before receipt; provide certified English translations and originals when needed. The September 2024 paper form additionally asks for notarization.
Background check
Arrange direct submission of the state-contracted criminal background check; therapist OCA 2680.
Board review
The Board may request a health, character or educational interview and condition approval. Rule .08(2) permits preliminary temporary authorization pending full Board ratification; this is an approval stage of the requested license.
Character
Two original signed and dated letters from health professionals within the preceding 12 months, identifying credentials and contact details and attesting to character and ethics (Rule .05(1)(h)).
Disclosures
Disclose nonminor criminal convictions, license denial or discipline, loss or restrictions, malpractice/negligence/fraud judgments or settlements, and examination failures. Prostitution or sexual misconduct convictions disqualify; a Tennessee felony may disqualify (Rule .05(1)(i)).
Duration
Temporary license expires six months after issuance.
Education
Official sealed transcripts sent directly from Board-approved institutions authorized by THEC or its equivalent, or governed/approved by TBR, showing at least 650 classroom hours.
Ethics
20 classroom hours of ethics.
Exam timing
To obtain full reciprocity licensure, pass the approved competency exam and transmit verification within six months of temporary issuance; fulfill all other requirements. Statutory post-issuance timing governs instead of the ordinary pre-application rule.
Expedited military member
PH-4279 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed military member retired, discharged other than dishonorably, or released to reserves within 180 days. Provide military ID, status papers and expedited verification.
Expedited military spouse
PH-4280 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed spouse of a servicemember transferred to Tennessee. Supply identification, transfer orders and expedited verification.
Lawful presence
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or were born outside the United States supply lawful-presence documentation under T.C.A. 4-58-103 and the citizenship declaration.
Massage theory and practice
300 classroom hours of massage theory and practice, including intern clinic.
Online limit
No more than 195 classroom hours online; kinesiology and hands-on coursework cannot be online.
Other approved exam
Rule .09(2)(b) accepts any other Board-approved examination; the unnamed remainder remains an applicant condition.
Other licenses
Arrange direct verification of all present or former professional licenses, including standing, from each issuing authority (Rule .05(1)(k)).
Prior license
Is or has been licensed in another state.
Qualifying license
Board discretion applies to an applicant licensed, registered or certified in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction whose reciprocity standards otherwise qualify but do not require a Board-approved competency examination.
Reciprocity training
Five classroom hours of Tennessee law and at least 20 classroom hours of ethics; not self-directed. Current Rule .05(1)(n)2 supersedes the pinned July 2025 ten-hour ethics provision.
Related subjects
125 classroom hours of related subjects.
Sciences
200 classroom hours of sciences.
Supervision
Work at all times under a person licensed pursuant to T.C.A. 63-18-105.
Tennessee law
Five classroom hours of Tennessee massage law, in person or live/real time.
Reinstatement after expiry or administrative revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Cause
Explain failure to renew; reinstatement is discretionary.
Continuing education
24 Board-approved hours per two-calendar-year cycle, including two hours of Tennessee law and two of practice management, ethics or substance abuse; at most eight multimedia hours. Initial hours are prorated. Retain evidence for four years; documented hardship waivers are discretionary (Rule .12).
Course assessments
Multimedia/correspondence CE courses may require an unnamed written post-course assessment under Rule .12(5)(e); this remains a course-completion condition.
Fees
Pay the late fee and all accrued renewal fees.
Long lapse
For a lapse over two years, complete 20 Board-approved massage CE hours in the preceding 12 months, at most eight multimedia hours, plus the last active cycle obligations; these 20 hours cannot count for the new renewal cycle (Rule .12(7)).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New application following disciplinary revocation
Age
At least 18 years old; submit a birth certificate or equivalent (Rule .05(1)(d)).
Application
Submit a complete truthful sworn and signed application, all documents and fees, citizenship declaration and practitioner profile. Documents must be executed within one year before receipt; provide certified English translations and originals when needed. The September 2024 paper form additionally asks for notarization.
Background check
Arrange direct submission of the state-contracted criminal background check; therapist OCA 2680.
Board review
The Board may request a health, character or educational interview and condition approval. Rule .08(2) permits preliminary temporary authorization pending full Board ratification; this is an approval stage of the requested license.
Character
Two original signed and dated letters from health professionals within the preceding 12 months, identifying credentials and contact details and attesting to character and ethics (Rule .05(1)(h)).
Disclosures
Disclose nonminor criminal convictions, license denial or discipline, loss or restrictions, malpractice/negligence/fraud judgments or settlements, and examination failures. Prostitution or sexual misconduct convictions disqualify; a Tennessee felony may disqualify (Rule .05(1)(i)).
Education
Official sealed transcripts sent directly from Board-approved institutions authorized by THEC or its equivalent, or governed/approved by TBR, showing at least 650 classroom hours.
Ethics
20 classroom hours of ethics.
Exam timing
Pass before applying and arrange direct examining-agency transmission of verification unless a statutory pathway permits a later examination.
Expedited military member
PH-4279 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed military member retired, discharged other than dishonorably, or released to reserves within 180 days. Provide military ID, status papers and expedited verification.
Expedited military spouse
PH-4280 permits expedited processing with a complete licensure or reinstatement application for a currently licensed spouse of a servicemember transferred to Tennessee. Supply identification, transfer orders and expedited verification.
Lawful presence
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or were born outside the United States supply lawful-presence documentation under T.C.A. 4-58-103 and the citizenship declaration.
Massage theory and practice
300 classroom hours of massage theory and practice, including intern clinic.
Online limit
No more than 195 classroom hours online; kinesiology and hands-on coursework cannot be online.
Order conditions
Satisfy the Board order; revocation for CE deficiencies also invokes Rule .12(7). A qualified applicant may request a statutory reciprocity exception using the separately recorded reciprocity pathways.
Other approved exam
Rule .09(2)(b) accepts any other Board-approved examination; the unnamed remainder remains an applicant condition.
Other licenses
Arrange direct verification of all present or former professional licenses, including standing, from each issuing authority (Rule .05(1)(k)).
Related subjects
125 classroom hours of related subjects.
Sciences
200 classroom hours of sciences.
Tennessee law
Five classroom hours of Tennessee massage law, in person or live/real time.
Waiting period
At least one year after revocation unless the revocation order states otherwise.
Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
24 Board-approved hours per two-calendar-year cycle, including two hours of Tennessee law and two of practice management, ethics or substance abuse; at most eight multimedia hours. Initial hours are prorated. Retain evidence for four years; documented hardship waivers are discretionary (Rule .12).
Course assessments
Multimedia/correspondence CE courses may require an unnamed written post-course assessment under Rule .12(5)(e); this remains a course-completion condition.
Renewal
Submit completed signed renewal application and renewal/regulatory fees by expiry. Failure to renew within 60 days produces administrative revocation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a retired individual license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit reinstatement application and applicable renewal/regulatory fees.
Cause
Explain failure to renew; reinstatement is discretionary.
Competence interview
After more than two years of retirement/inactivation, appear for a continued-competence interview if requested; this clause establishes no separately identified licensing examination.
Continuing education
24 Board-approved hours per two-calendar-year cycle, including two hours of Tennessee law and two of practice management, ethics or substance abuse; at most eight multimedia hours. Initial hours are prorated. Retain evidence for four years; documented hardship waivers are discretionary (Rule .12).
Course assessments
Multimedia/correspondence CE courses may require an unnamed written post-course assessment under Rule .12(5)(e); this remains a course-completion condition.
Fees
Pay the late fee and all accrued renewal fees.
Long lapse
For a lapse over two years, complete 20 Board-approved massage CE hours in the preceding 12 months, at most eight multimedia hours, plus the last active cycle obligations; these 20 hours cannot count for the new renewal cycle (Rule .12(7)).
Retired status
Previously retained an individual license in retirement.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return after disciplinary suspension or conditioning
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Order compliance
Appear before the Board after the prescribed period, meet all imposed conditions and pay civil penalties. Any individually ordered unnamed assessment remains a condition.
Prior license
Suspension contemplates reentry under the previously issued license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

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

Board Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork

Provider
National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork; developed, administered and scored with Prometric at Prometric test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice certification examination; four choices per question with one correct answer; results communicated on screen at completion as Pass or No Pass
Exam questions
140 multiple-choice questions
Time limit
140 minutes
Passing score
Scale score; each question graded right or wrong with no partial credit; reported as Pass or No Pass
Exam fee
$275 Board Certification Examination Fee
Examination outline
  • Assessment, Care Planning, and Documentation (25%)
    • Knowledge — Interview techniques (e.g., open-ended and fact-finding questions, verbal and nonverbal communication skills, reflective listening)
    • Knowledge — Assessment methods (e.g., health history, observation, palpation, range of motion, posture, gait, pain scale, special tests)
    • Knowledge — Common pathologies, injuries, and pre-/post-surgical considerations
    • Knowledge — Common prescription and non-prescription medications, their effects, and side effects (e.g., pain medications, muscle relaxants, cardiovascular agents, anti-inflammatories)
    • Knowledge — Stages of tissue healing
    • Knowledge — Special populations (e.g., pregnancy, oncology, geriatric, athletes, disabilities, palliative)
    • Knowledge — Indications and contraindications
    • Knowledge — How to customize a massage (e.g., analysis, synthesis, application of client information, and research data)
    • Knowledge — How to communicate with clients in understandable terms
    • Knowledge — Informed consent (e.g., risks and benefits)
    • Knowledge — Documentation formats (e.g., Subjective, Objective, Assessment/Application, Plan [SOAP], Focus, Data, Action, Response [FDAR])
    • Knowledge — Medically accepted terminology
    • Knowledge — Health care practices (e.g., prescription for treatment, medical insurance, procedural codes)
    • Skills — Use a variety of interview techniques to gather client information
    • Skills — Conduct a variety of assessments (e.g., range of motion, posture, gait, pain scale, palpation)
    • Skills — Develop a plan for the massage session (e.g., short-term, long-term where appropriate)
    • Skills — Identify and discuss indications, contraindications, pathologies, and special accommodations, and adapt the session as needed
    • Skills — Obtain informed consent
    • Skills — Adapt massage for pre- and post-surgical considerations
    • Skills — Adapt massage based on prescription and non-prescription medications
    • Skills — Customize massage based on client's goals
    • Skills — Monitor client responses, and solicit feedback during and after the session
    • Skills — Educate client about the care plan, including self-care activities as appropriate
    • Skills — Maintain client documentation
    • Skills — Utilize medically accepted terminology in client documentation
    • Skills — Collaborate with health care providers when appropriate
    • Skills — Apply research evidence to client-centered care planning
  • Massage Techniques and Modalities (24%)
    • Knowledge — General massage techniques (e.g., effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, vibration, friction)
    • Knowledge — Massage modalities (e.g., Swedish, deep tissue, neuromuscular/trigger point therapy, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation [PNF], Eastern and energetic bodywork therapies)
    • Knowledge — Pressure and manual forces (e.g., compression, tension/decompression, friction/shear, bending, torsion, vibration)
    • Knowledge — Stretching (e.g., barriers, end-feel)
    • Knowledge — Joint mobilization
    • Knowledge — Endangerment sites and adverse events
    • Knowledge — Client positioning (e.g., prone, supine, bolstered, side-lying, seated)
    • Knowledge — Appropriate use of tools and equipment
    • Knowledge — Appropriate use of topical agents (e.g., analgesics, essential oils, CBD)
    • Knowledge — Benefits and effects of techniques and modalities
    • Knowledge — Draping techniques
    • Skills — Apply massage and bodywork techniques in a safe manner, monitoring responses and adapting techniques as needed
    • Skills — Utilize effective body mechanics during the session
    • Skills — Identify the benefits of massage and bodywork techniques and modalities
    • Skills — Identify endangerment sites and adverse effects
    • Skills — Position clients for comfort and safety, utilizing positioning equipment as appropriate
    • Skills — Apply appropriate draping techniques
  • Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology (24%)
    • Knowledge — Anatomy and physiology of all body systems, including: Integumentary system; Muscular system; Skeletal system; Nervous system; Cardiovascular system; Lymphatic system; Endocrine system; Reproductive system; Respiratory system; Digestive system; Urinary system
    • Knowledge — Immune response (e.g., inflammation, lethargy)
    • Knowledge — Kinesiology (e.g., mechanics of body movement including levers, agonists, antagonists, synergists, compensatory patterns)
    • Skills — Identify structures, functions, and interactions of body systems (i.e., integumentary, muscular, skeletal, nervous, cardiovascular, lymphatic, endocrine, reproductive, respiratory, digestive, urinary)
    • Skills — Identify origins, insertions, actions, functions, and innervations of muscles
    • Skills — Identify types of muscle contractions
  • Professional Practice (14%)
    • Knowledge — NCBTMB’s Standards of Practice
    • Knowledge — Standard of care for safe practice procedures (e.g., infection control)
    • Knowledge — Information literacy and research literacy (i.e., how to locate and evaluate research)
    • Knowledge — Professional development (e.g., continuing education, specialty credentials, board certification)
    • Knowledge — Therapist self-care (e.g., body mechanics, physical activity, hand-held tools, professional consultation, mentorships)
    • Knowledge — Business entities (e.g., independent contractor, employee, business structure)
    • Knowledge — Business practices and policies (e.g., marketing, cancellation, no-show)
    • Knowledge — Accounting principles and financial record keeping (e.g., tax filings, profit and loss, income reporting, bartering)
    • Knowledge — Professional liability insurance
    • Knowledge — Emergency preparedness (e.g., medical emergencies, disaster preparedness)
    • Skills — Maintain a clean, sanitary, safe, and accessible facility
    • Skills — Clean, disinfect, and maintain tools and equipment
    • Skills — Stay current with massage therapy research
    • Skills — Participate in professional development
    • Skills — Apply standard massage therapy business and employment practices
    • Skills — Practice self-care regimen for injury prevention and career longevity
    • Skills — Manage medical emergencies when they arise
  • Law and Ethics (13%)
    • Knowledge — Massage practice laws and regulations (e.g., licensing, scope of practice, insurance requirements)
    • Knowledge — Legal requirements for record keeping (e.g., retention, release, disposal, HIPAA)
    • Knowledge — Establishment laws and zoning ordinances
    • Knowledge — Ethical principles (e.g., confidentiality, autonomy, veracity, non-malfeasance, beneficence, nondiscrimination, empathy)
    • Knowledge — Professional roles and boundaries (e.g., dual relationships, power differential, transference and countertransference)
    • Knowledge — Ethical strategies for managing and resolving conflict (e.g., conflicts of interest, how and when to terminate a session, right of refusal)
    • Knowledge — NCBTMB’s Code of Ethics
    • Knowledge — Cultural sensitivity
    • Knowledge — When, where, and how to report inappropriate behavior and sexual misconduct (e.g., clients, peers)
    • Knowledge — Mandatory reporting requirements (e.g., human trafficking, minors and dependent adults)
    • Skills — Follow local and state laws and regulations for massage therapy practice, operating within scope of practice
    • Skills — Maintain client information and records, safeguarding client confidentiality
    • Skills — Apply ethical principles in professional interactions
    • Skills — Establish and maintain professional, culturally sensitive relationships with clients
    • Skills — Identify and manage legal and ethical conflicts
    • Skills — Establish, communicate, and respect therapist/client roles and boundaries
    • Skills — Report inappropriate behavior and sexual misconduct to the proper authorities
Examination sources