Massage Therapist in Rhode Island
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for RI. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a massage therapist in Rhode Island
To become a licensed Massage Therapist in Rhode Island, applicants must obtain a license from the Rhode Island Department of Health. As of January 1, 2026, this requires completing an 800-hour, in-class, hands-on training program and passing the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). Additionally, applicants must be at least 18 years old, pass a criminal background check, and hold current CPR and First Aid certifications. Rhode Island offers reciprocity for licensees from states with equivalent or greater requirements.
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Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Rhode Island. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Rhode Island requirements
| Licensing body | Rhode Island Department of Health |
| State license | Required |
| Education | 800 hours of in-class, hands-on coursework and clinical work (effective January 1, 2026) |
| Exam | Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) ($265) |
| Application fee | $65 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age 18. Requires a criminal background check including fingerprinting. Must have current CPR and First Aid certification. Online courses are not recognized. |
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.