Becoming a certified massage therapist, or CMT, isn’t your average job application. In fact, most guidelines are open to interpretation and the requirements can vary depending on where you plan to practice. If you’re serious about following this career path, though, we’re here to help. Here’s what you need to know about becoming a certified massage therapist.
how to become a certified massage therapist
The Certified Massage Therapist Application Process
We recommend that you submit your application to become a certified massage therapist as soon as possible to the Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy. The time for processing your application may take six to eight weeks. If you plan to start your own business, you will also most likely need a business license from your state or municipality before you can legally begin to practice massage therapy on clients.
Licensing Requirements & Massage Therapy Certification
In most states, massage therapists must be licensed to practice and receive fees for massage and bodywork services. You must apply to your state’s board of massage therapy to meet this licensing requirement. Prerequisites for licensure as a massage therapist include at least 700 hours of massage school. Upon successfully completing Arizona College’s massage therapy program, our graduates are eligible to pursue certification through the Arizona State Board of Massage Therapy.
Massage Therapy License Application Instructions
You can download your massage therapy license application to the Arizona State Board for Massage Therapy on the organization’s website. Follow the specific instructions outlined for the application process and ensure you submit all required documents and fees with your application. These include:
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- 2 x 2 color photograph (the same format you would use for a passport).