Become Board Certified
Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB®) is the highest credential within the massage and bodywork profession. Choosing to become Board Certified demonstrates your advanced assessment and critical thinking abilities and provides credibility to current and prospective clients and employers.
Why Become Board Certified?
Requirements & Costs
Board Certification Requirements
If you are practicing in a license state:
- Verification of current massage therapy state license
- Passing score on the Board Certification Exam
- Pass a criminal background check
- Agree to uphold NCBTMB’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
If you are practicing in a state without state licensure:
- Graduation from a minimum 500 hours massage program that meets NCBTMB requirements*
- Passing score on the Board Certification Exam
- Pass a criminal background check
- Agree to uphold NCBTMB’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
Board Certification Costs
The cost to apply for Board Certification is $275
*If you are in an unlicensed state, you must provide proof (official transcript and diploma), or your completion of a minimum 500-hour massage program that meets NCBTMB requirements for portfolio review.
**If submitting a transcript with transfer credits, the original transcript where credits were transferred from must be submitted as well.
Testimonials
“Board Certification is new to the massage profession, but it is not new in other professions where it is highly regarded. Achieving Board Certification advanced my career and validated my credibility in the courtroom, where I serve as an expert witness in legal cases involving massage therapists. Professionals RECOGNIZE and RESPECT Board Certification. It symbolizes commitment, dedication, and expertise. Massage therapists who are Board Certified have gone above and beyond licensure—they have achieved more than minimum requirements. You can expect more from professionals who chose to become Board Certified.”
Susan Salvo, EdD, LMT, BCTMB
“Board Certification is the closest thing we have to a national credential. Our field is in a time of great transition, and I am eager to be part of the solution. NCBTMB is in a position to help massage therapy mature into a well-respected profession – That’s why I chose Board Certification."
Ruth Werner, BCTMB
“I have been a therapist for 33 years. My practice has consistently been focused on working with Chronic Pain clients. Doctors of different specialties send their patients to me for pain relief and/or Lymphatic issues. I became Board certified to have the highest credential our profession offers. I wanted the Doctors to feel confident in me and my standards of practice. Encouraging my students to take this next step of receiving National Certification is definitely part of their education.”
LaDonna Ward, BCTMB, LMT
“Becoming Board Certified was a dream I had always had. I wanted to show my students that you are never too old to achieve a goal and that the potential to be great is always there! I am passionate about massage therapy, and I believe in the advancement and advocacy of our professionals through education and commitment to excellence. Our industry is evolving quickly and I chose Board Certification because I saw an opportunity to evolve and show my students all of the different possibilities that are available in our community of massage therapists.”
Becky Thom, BCTMB, CMT
"Being Nationally Board Certified brings an extra level of significance, especially when one is seeking to be part of the medical care community. As a Registered Nurse, Board Certification is a symbol of expertise in one's field and offers patients a greater sense of comfort, knowing that their provider has "gone the extra mile" to advance themselves by obtaining Board Certification."
Christine Bailor-Goodlander, BA, RN, BCTMB, LMT
"I am Board Certified because it is the highest credential in the massage therapy profession. I choose to set myself apart because I work with doctors in the chiropractic, medical and dental professions where Board certification is respected and understood. I encourage all massage therapists to achieve Board certification and experience the difference Board certification can make in their career. Aim higher - Become Board Certified!"
Jane Johnson, BS, LMT, BCMTB
"I am Board Certified because it is the highest credential in the massage therapy profession. I choose to set myself apart because I work with doctors in the chiropractic, medical and dental professions where Board certification is respected and understood. I encourage all massage therapists to achieve Board certification and experience the difference Board certification can make in their career. Aim higher - Become Board Certified!"
Jane Johnson, BS, LMT, BCMTB
Important Links & Resources
Prep to Become Board Certified
Board Certification Candidate Handbook and Application Checklist
Handbook: Complete NCBTMB Board Certification candidate handbook
Checklist: Checklist of information needed to complete the Certification application
Coming Soon! Practice+
Experience the look and feel of the actual testing platform and practice navigation the exam interface.
New! Test Prep Ebook
Our Test Prep ebook helps you prepare with practical guidance, including study strategies, test-taking tips, and preparation recommendations.
Exam Description and Content Breakdown
Detailed Information on the make-up of the Board Certification exam.
Verification of Education Form
The NCBTMB verification of education form.
Online Practice Exam
Information on our practice exam and additional resources for exam preparation.
Additional Benefits for You:
A new exclusive benefit for BCTMBs. A free website designed just for you!
Digital Badge from Credly
NCBTMB Code of Ethics
NCBTMB Standards of Practice
Information on the requirements and steps to complete your Board Certification Renewal.
Ready to take the next step?
Join our community of massage therapy professionals and access the resources, education, and the support you need to advance your career.
Get Board Certified
Earn the highest credential in the massage therapy profession and gain recognition for your advanced skills and abilities.
Become an Approved Provider
Share your expertise and become a part of the leading network of massage therapy continuing education providers.