The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) has announced updates to the Board Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCETMB). Beginning May 4, 2026, the exam will feature revised domains and structure, reflecting the latest insights from NCBTMB’s Job Task Analysis (JTA) Report published in August 2025.
The JTA report, developed through extensive field surveys and focus groups with subject matter experts, identifies the core knowledge and tasks essential to massage therapists in their daily practice. The updated domains are designed to highlight the profession’s versatility and skill, while providing a contemporary career roadmap for both current and aspiring massage therapists.
BCETMB Makeup After May 4, 2026
The Board Certification exam contains 140 questions and applicants have 140 minutes to complete the exam. Starting on May 4, 2026, the following are the exam domains and their respective weights:
Resources and detailed information about the new exam structure are available on the NCBTMB website. Prospective candidates can find requirements for exam eligibility and preparation resources online.
Applicants who take the BCETMB prior to May 4, 2026, will continue to use the current version of the exam. Details about the current exam are also available on the NCBTMB website.
About NCBTMB
NCBTMB is a non-profit organization dedicated to elevating the massage therapy profession through the establishment of the highest credentials and standards of excellence. In addition to the BCTMB®, NCBTMB offers the Approved Provider Program, the Massage Therapy Assessment for Certification (MTAC), and the Assigned Schools program.