Massage Therapist in California
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for CA. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, California.
Jobs (CA)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a massage therapist in California
To become a Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) in California, individuals must obtain voluntary certification through the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC). This involves completing a minimum of 500 hours of education from a CAMTC-approved school, passing a background check, and submitting an application with a fee. While state certification is voluntary, many cities and counties in California require it to practice. There are no continuing education requirements for renewal, and the MBLEx exam is not currently a requirement for CAMTC certification.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for California. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist California requirements
| Licensing body | California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) |
| State license | Not required |
| Education | 500-hour training program |
| Exam | Not required |
| Application fee | $300 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | California has a voluntary state certification through CAMTC. While not a 'license,' many local ordinances require it to practice, making it a de facto requirement. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and pass a background check. The MBLEx exam is not required for CAMTC certification as of January 1, 2019, and this suspension is through December 31, 2027. |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- infoNo state license required — lower barrier but weaker signal
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+15.4%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk