Massage Therapist in District of Columbia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DC
How to Become a Massage Therapist in District of Columbia
To become a licensed Massage Therapist in the District of Columbia, applicants must obtain a license from the District of Columbia Board of Massage Therapy. Key steps include completing a minimum 500-hour training program from an approved school, passing the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), and submitting a comprehensive application with a fee of $262. Additionally, applicants must be at least 18 years old, undergo a criminal background check, and provide proof of current CPR and first aid certification. The District of Columbia also offers licensure by endorsement for those licensed in other states with comparable requirements.
Massage Therapist Requirements in District of Columbia
| Detail | District of Columbia |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | District of Columbia Board of Massage Therapy |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 500-hour training program |
| Exam | Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) ($265) |
| Application Fee | $262 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 14.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Requires a criminal background check and applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Proof of current CPR and first aid certification (live classroom setting) is also required. Licenses expire on January 31 of odd years, but for licenses issued after June 16, 2024, they will expire on the last day of the licensee's birth month. Continuing education must include 3 hours of professional ethics, 9 hours of massage-related coursework (6 of which must be hands-on in a live classroom setting), and 2 hours of LGBTQ continuing education. Up to 8 CE hours may be earned online. |
Massage Therapist Salary in District of Columbia
The median massage therapist salary in District of Columbia is $62,220 per year, which is 7.4% above the national median of $57,950.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $54,100 |
| 25th | $54,100 |
| 50th (median) | $62,220 |
| 75th | $85,110 |
| 90th (experienced) | $110,290 |
Massage Therapist Job Outlook
AI Impact on Massage Therapists
Low AI Exposure (Score: -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.
Is Becoming a Massage Therapist in District of Columbia Worth It?
Factors to consider: District of Columbia's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.