How To Become a Massage Therapist in California

Are you looking to work as a massage therapist in California? Follow these steps to learn about the process of becoming a massage therapist and how to meet the requirements for massage therapists in the state of California.

California Massage Certification

Unlike the majority of states, California does not license massage therapists through the state government. Many people wonder how to become a licensed massage therapist in California, but the reality is that there are no massage therapists formally licensed by the California state government. Instead, massage therapy certification is the way those in the massage therapy business can be officially recognized by the government. While massage therapy certification is recognized by the government, it is also voluntary. The state of California does not require you to be certified. If you wish to complete the process, you will become certified through the California Massage Therapy Council (“CAMTC”).

5 Steps to Become Certified

There are 5 steps you must take to become certified by the CMTC. They include the following:

Step 1: Meet the Age Requirement.

You must be 18 years of age or older to qualify for certification.

Step 2: Meet Education Requirements

You must complete 500 hours of education from a CAMTC-approved massage therapy school program. 100 of these education hours must include courses on anatomy and physiology, contraindications, health and hygiene, and business ethics.

Step 3: Pass a CAMTC-Approved Exam

Once you have completed your massage therapy training or massage therapy classes, you must pass a CAMTC-approved exam. This step does not apply to massage therapists looking to be certified after January 1, 2019!

Step 4: Complete a Background Check

Your background check must occur in California. Costs for the background check can range between $60-$100.

Step 5: Complete Application

The application is on the CAMTC website. The cost is $150 and will increase to $200 on January 1, 2019. The processing time for your application generally takes about 90 days.

Being a Massage Therapist in California

There are other things to consider about becoming a massage therapist in California. You may wonder, how much money can I make being a massage therapist? The average massage therapist in California makes just under $22 an hour. Salaries can range greatly depending on how often you work and the amount of gratuities you receive. Some massage therapists can make up to $40 an hour.

You may also want to consider purchasing your own massage table and other equipment for yourself and for clients. If you are employed by a spa or salon, it’s important to ask about the type of equipment they will provide and what you will need to provide for yourself. Once you have the equipment necessary and you are knowledgeable about the certification process, you are ready to start working as a massage therapist in California!