Massage Therapist in Oklahoma

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for OK. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary
$48,140
trending_down -16.9% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Oklahoma.

engineering
550

Jobs (OK)

monitoring Surging
+15.4%

10-yr job growth

payments
$365

Licensing fees

schedule
6-12 months

Time to complete

route How to become a massage therapist in Oklahoma

To become a licensed Massage Therapist in Oklahoma, individuals must obtain a license from the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, Advisory Board on Massage Therapy. Key steps include completing a minimum of 500 hours of formal massage therapy education from a state-licensed school, passing the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), and submitting an application with a $100 fee. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have professional liability insurance, and undergo an Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) background check. Reciprocity is available for out-of-state licensees who meet Oklahoma's standards.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $43,430
25th percentile $43,880
50th (median) $48,140
75th percentile $96,770
90th (experienced) $97,640

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Oklahoma. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Oklahoma requirements

Licensing bodyOklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, Advisory Board on Massage Therapy
State license Required
Education500-hour training program
ExamMassage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) ($265)
Application fee$100
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing education10.0 hours per cycle
NotesMinimum age 18. Requires professional liability insurance and an Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) background check. Reciprocity is available for applicants licensed in other states with equivalent or exceeding educational and examination qualifications, with an additional $15 fee. The renewal fee is $100 for two years. Licenses expire on the last day of the licensee's birth month.

Source: Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, Advisory Board on Massage Therapy

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth
+15.4%
Much faster than average
Annual openings
24,700
Nationwide per year
Total employment
168,000
Nationwide
neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -1.41/1.00

This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

  • check_circleOklahoma license required — clearer credential signal to employers
  • check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+15.4%)
  • check_circleLow AI disruption risk
psychology
Wondering if a massage therapist career is the right fit?
See what the day actually looks like, who the role suits, and who should skip it — grounded in real practitioner sources.
arrow_forward

Frequently asked questions

What's required to work as a massage therapist in Oklahoma? expand_more
In Oklahoma, becoming a massage therapist requires you to complete the required education (500-hour training program), pass the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), and submit your application ($100 fee).
Does Oklahoma require massage therapist licensure? expand_more
Yes, Oklahoma requires a state license to practice as a massage therapist. The licensing body is Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, Advisory Board on Massage Therapy. You must pass the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
How much does a massage therapist make in Oklahoma? expand_more
massage therapists in Oklahoma earn a median of $48,140 annually. That's 17% below the national median of $57,950. Wages range from $43,430 (10th percentile) up to $97,640 (90th percentile).
How much does it cost to become a massage therapist in Oklahoma? expand_more
Costs include exam fee ($265) and application fee ($100). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.
What's the timeline to become a massage therapist in Oklahoma? expand_more
Most candidates in Oklahoma complete the process in 6-12 months, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.
Does Oklahoma require continuing education for massage therapists? expand_more
Yes — massage therapists in Oklahoma must complete 10.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.

Explore more