Massage Therapy Business Tips

How To Start A Massage Therapy Career In Texas

updated on

August 24, 2024

How To Start A Massage Therapy Career In Texas

Starting a massage therapy career in Texas is an exciting and rewarding journey. With the right education and licensing, you can create a fulfilling and successful path in this growing field. Whether you dream of working in a spa, a medical setting, or owning your own practice, Texas offers ample opportunities to thrive. 

Dive into this guide to discover the essential steps to starting your massage therapy career in Texas, and get ready to make a positive impact on the lives of others while building a career you love.


Do I Need A License To Provide Massage Services In Texas?

Yes. To start your own massage therapy business in Texas, you must complete 500 hours of education from an accredited school and obtain a state license. This essential step prepares you for various massage therapy career opportunities, including opening your own practice.


What Documents Are Needed To Get A Massage Therapy License In Texas?

Before starting your massage therapy career in Texas, you have to apply for a license to practice, after completing the required education. To apply for a Texas massage therapy license, you’ll need the following documents:

  • License application
  • Background check
  • Proof of education
  • Proof of passing certification exams

What Documents Are Needed To Get A Massage Therapy License In Texas?

License Application

You can apply for a license through the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR). If you have a social security number, you can apply online. If you don’t have a social security number, you must download a pdf application and mail it in.


Proof Of Education

When you fill out your application, you must include the official certified original transcript from the massage school where you completed your 500+ hours of required coursework.


Proof Of Passing Required Exam

Passing the required certification exams is a prerequisite to the application process. To be eligible for a massage therapy license in Texas, you must pass the Texas Massage Exam or the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). If you don’t take the Texas Massage Exam, you must pass the Texas Jurisprudence Exam in addition to the MBLEx because it covers state specific laws. 


Background Check

After submitting your application, you must get fingerprinted so TDLR can access your criminal record. You’ll receive an email from TDLR prompting you to schedule an appointment to do this after your application is received. Your licenses will not be issued until you complete this step.


Tips For Getting Hired As A Massage Therapist

Once you have your license, it’s time to start your job hunt. While many massage therapists want to be their own boss, it’s wise to get a little experience before starting a massage business. Here are a few tips for landing your first job.


Be Professional

This should go without saying, but a job interview isn’t a casual encounter, even if it’s in a laid back environment. Dress to impress. Show up on time. Be courteous, and follow-up with prospective employers.


Share Your Experience

Even if this is your first massage job, you likely have applicable experience that relates to massage therapy. It could be work experience in healthcare or customer service. Or it might be life experience, such as soft skills like active listening or having a personal connection to their clientele. These are all selling points.


Be Ready To Show Off Your Hands-On Skills

Often, providing a mini massage to someone one the hiring staff is part of the interview process. Before the interview, consider your best massage therapy skills. Is it working on a specific area, putting clients at ease before the session, or a special massage modality. Whatever it is, do that during your demonstration.

Tips For Getting Hired As A Massage Therapist

How To Advance Your Career As A Massage Therapist

A career in massage therapy is a path that can go many different directions. Whether you want to practice medical massage, work in a spa, or help a specific segment of the population, you have options. 

Successful massage therapists often adopt one of these strategies: invest in continuing education and open your own massage clinic. Many do both.


Invest In Continuing Education

Continuing education is essential for growing as a massage therapist. Developing new skills not only improves your care but also attracts more clients. In Texas, you need 12 hours of CEUs every two years to renew your license. Beyond this requirement, ongoing learning is crucial for a fulfilling career and massage therapy career longevity.


Open Your Own Massage Clinic

The truth about being a massage therapist is that it’s easier when you have control over your schedule, and there’s higher earning potential in self-employment. Once you develop your skills, start thinking about how to build a practice that supports you and your clients in and out of the massage room. Opening a massage clinic is a chance to do things your way, take control over your workflow, as well as your career path.


What Documents Are Needed To Open A Massage Clinic In Texas?

If you're opening a massage clinic in Texas, apply for a New Massage Establishment License first. Owners and general managers need fingerprinting before a license will be granted. Also, the premises must pass an inspection every two years. Ensure these steps are completed before opening your doors.


What Do I Need Before I Start My Massage Business?

Starting your own massage therapy business is fulfilling but requires more than just massage skills. Here are the essentials:

Your support system may include valuable resources, like our complete guide on How To Start + Grow Your Massage Business In Texas. It should also include friends and family who have your back, a little cushion in your bank account, and experts you can ask for advice.


Ready to grow your massage therapy business in Texas? Download our complete guide, "How To Grow Your Massage Business," for step-by-step guidance on building a thriving practice and creating a fulfilling massage therapy career. Get inspired and start your journey to success today!

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