How to Get a Massage Therapy License in Florida: Step-by-Step Guide

Everything you need to know about Florida's LMT requirements, the board exam, and where to train in Tampa

Florida Massage Therapy License Requirements at a Glance

Becoming a licensed massage therapist (LMT) in Florida is a straightforward process when you know the steps. Here is what the Florida Board of Massage Therapy requires:

• Complete a minimum of 500 clock hours at a board-approved massage therapy school

• Pass a board-approved licensing examination (MBLEx or FSMTCE)

• Submit a licensure application to the Florida Department of Health

• Meet good moral character requirements

• Pay applicable licensure fees

Florida massage licenses renew every two years by August 31 of odd-numbered years. You will need to complete 24 hours of continuing education per renewal cycle to maintain your license.

Step 1: Choose a Florida Board-Approved Massage Therapy School

Your first step is selecting a school whose program is approved by the Florida Board of Massage Therapy. Not all massage programs qualify, so this matters.

Summit Salon Academy Tampa is a state-approved massage therapy school located at 4802 Gunn Highway in Carrollwood, Tampa. Our program is also accredited by NACCAS, which opens up potential federal financial aid eligibility for qualifying students.

When choosing a school, look for factors like accreditation, program length, hands-on training hours, faculty experience, and job placement support.

Step 2: Complete Your 500-Hour Training Program

TFlorida's 500-hour minimum is exactly that: a minimum. At Summit Salon Academy Tampa, our curriculum is structured to ensure you graduate with both the technical skills and the business knowledge to succeed as an LMT.

You will learn Swedish massage, deep tissue, sports massage, anatomy and physiology, pathology, Florida massage law, professional ethics, and client communication. You will also gain hands-on experience through supervised clinic hours, working with real clients before you ever step into a professional setting.

Full-time students can complete the program in approximately 6 months. Part-time options are also available.

Step 3: Pass the Licensing Exam

Once you complete your program, you are eligible to sit for a board-approved licensing exam. The most common is the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards.

Summit Salon Academy Tampa's curriculum is built around preparing you for this exam, covering all tested domains including anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, massage techniques, and Florida law.

Step 4: Apply for Your Florida Massage Therapy License

After passing your exam, you will submit your licensure application to the Florida Department of Health, along with your exam score, proof of program completion, and any required fees.

Once approved, you will hold an active Florida massage therapy license and be ready to practice.

Start Your Licensing Journey at Summit Salon Academy Tampa

Summit Salon Academy Tampa has helped students across Hillsborough County take their first step toward a licensed massage therapy career. Our team is here to guide you from enrollment through exam prep.