Massage businesses must have a number of licenses to operate, including a business license.
Massage businesses help alleviate muscle soreness or tension through a variety of techniques designed specifically for that purpose. Although massage can be classified as alternative or holistic medicine, businesses offering massage must still meet licensing requirements to operate legally in their state and city. Learn which licenses you need to operate a massage business for compliance with legal guidelines.
Professional
Massage therapists working in a massage business must hold a professional licenses in the majority of states. Professional licensure typically involves completing a specified number of hours of direct instruction training, plus hands-on practical experience with clients. In some cities, such as Anaheim, California, massage therapists must complete a three-part exam including a written test, massage performance and test on the local municipal code. Additionally, massage therapists may be required to show proof that they're licensed to perform First Aid and CPR and offer letters of recommendation.
Massage therapists must complete continuing education requirements to keep their licenses current. While not a license, massage businesses must hold liability insurance; many require their massage therapists to hold personal liability insurance, too.
Specialty Massage
In addition to obtaining your professional massage license, you'll need to apply for licensing if advertising and offering specialty massage services, including medical massage. Because medical massage implies treatment, medical massage therapists must work from a doctor's prescription in some locations, since therapists aren't licensed to diagnose medical conditions. Some cities require additional licensure for reiki energy healing and reflexology. One exception: in some localities and states (such as Florida) massage therapists don't need an additional license to perform body wrap treatments.
Business
Visit City Hall to learn the specific procedure for obtaining a massage business in your area. In general, the process involves completing an application and paying a fee. Business licenses may be issued for two years, after which you'll need to apply for renewal.
Special
In addition to a traditional business license, some cities require massage businesses to obtain a special permit. To meet requirements for special permits, businesses must demonstrate that they're operating in a location zoned for massage. In some instances, cities may require massage businesses to undergo police inspection and ensure compliance with law enforcement standards. You may be fingerprinted and photographed to establish your identity, and police may run a background check. After completing this process, inspectors may still make announced or unannounced visits to the massage business.
Retail
If your massage business will sell items such as massage oil, eye pillows, or yoga mats, you'll also need to buy a retail license. Businesses selling online retail products to out-of-state customers will need to apply for additional retail licensing.
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