Colorado Massage Therapist State Requirements
How to Become a Massage Therapist in Colorado
Education and Training Requirements:
- Attend an approved massage therapy program. Colorado accepts programs certified by the Colorado Community College System, the Colorado Division of Private and Occupational Schools, or nationally accredited programs.
- Complete at least 650 hours of massage therapy education, including both classroom and clinical work.
License Requirements:
- Pass a licensing examination. Accepted exams include the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, the Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB), or other approved exams.
- Submit official transcripts or certificates of education directly from the educational institution.
- Undergo a state and federal background check with fingerprinting.
- Obtain professional liability insurance with $50,000 per occurrence and $300,000 per year limits. We offer massage therapists a policy with $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,0000 pear year in coverage.
- Complete an Affidavit of Eligibility.
- For endorsement applicants: Provide proof of active massage practice or continuing education.
It's crucial to stay current with the latest information and updates from DORA, the Colorado Office of Massage Therapy Licensure. This ensures you meet all the necessary requirements and maintain your license effectively.
For detailed information and updates, it's recommended to visit the Colorado Office of Massage Therapy Licensure's official website and DORA's resources.
Massage Therapy Schools in Colorado
Choosing the right massage therapy school is a pivotal step in your journey towards a rewarding career. In Colorado, a state known for its robust health and wellness culture, the quality of your education can set the foundation for a prosperous future.
A good massage therapy school not only imparts essential skills and knowledge but also prepares you for the diverse opportunities that Colorado's thriving wellness industry offers.
With the state's high concentration of massage therapy jobs and a growing demand for skilled practitioners, investing in a top-notch education is more than just learning; it's about building a fulfilling career in a field where you can genuinely make a difference.
Here are some reputable massage therapy schools in different regions of Colorado:
North - IBMC College, Fort Collins: Known for its intimate learning environment, IBMC College in Fort Collins offers a comprehensive program that balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The school has a notable student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention.
South - Trinidad State Junior College, Trinidad: This college offers a well-rounded massage therapy program in a small town setting. It's a great option for those looking for a comprehensive education in a more intimate, community-focused environment.
East - Intellitec College, Colorado Springs: Located in Colorado Springs, Intellitec College combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. Their focus on communication skills and client needs makes their program stand out for its practical and client-centered approach.
West - Colorado Northwestern Community College, Rangely: This college provides a robust massage therapy program in a remote rural setting. It's ideal for students who prefer a quieter, more scenic learning environment.
Central - Emily Griffith Technical College, Denver: Situated in the heart of Denver, this college offers a dynamic program in a vibrant urban setting. Its central location provides a diverse learning experience with access to a wide range of professional opportunities.
Each of these schools brings something unique to the table, whether it's a focus on specific massage techniques, a strong sense of community, or opportunities for hands-on experience in diverse settings.
Insurance Requirements
In Colorado, you are required to have professional liability insurance. The specific requirements are a minimum coverage of $50,000 per claim and an aggregate limited liability for all claims during the year of $300,000.
Massage Magazine Insurance Plus easily covers these requirements and offers much more!
For more detailed information, see our page about massage insurance in Colorado or get insured below.
Three Colorado Massage Insurance Policy Options
1 year full-time Professional Rate
$
169
/1yr
Cost to you: $0.46/day
2 year full-time
professional rate
$
299
/2yr
Cost to you: $0.41/day
1 year part-time
professional rate
$
159
/1yr
Cost to you: $0.43/day
License Renewals
The process for renewing a massage therapy license in Colorado includes the following steps:
- Renewal Period: Licenses must be renewed by December 31st of every even-numbered year.
- Application Process: The renewal is done online through the Colorado Office of Massage Therapy Licensure.
- Renewal Fee: The fee for renewing a massage therapy license in Colorado is $79.
- Professional Liability Insurance: Therapists must maintain insurance with a minimum coverage of $50,000 per claim and an aggregate limit of $300,000 annually.
Continuing Education Information:
Interestingly, as of the current regulations, Colorado does not require massage therapists to complete continuing education for license renewal. However, staying updated with the latest skills and practices in massage therapy is always beneficial for professional development.
For those interested in enhancing their professional development and staying current in the field of massage therapy, consider exploring the online continuing education units available through MMIP membership. These courses offer a convenient and comprehensive way to fulfill your learning needs and keep abreast of the latest techniques and industry standards.
Transfer of License and License Reciprocity
For massage therapists seeking to transfer their license to Colorado or understand the state's reciprocity policies, here's what you need to know:
- Complete a Massage Therapy Program: Applicants must have completed at least 650 hours of coursework in a massage therapy program.
- Pass an Approved Examination: Applicants are required to pass an examination such as the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx), the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB), or another exam approved by the Director.
- Fingerprinting: Applicants must undergo fingerprinting as part of a state and federal background check.
Additionally, applicant should also provide verification of licenses from any other states where they have been licensed and have professional liability insurance with specific coverage limits.
Interstate Massage Compact (IMpact):
About IMpact: The Interstate Massage Compact, known as IMpact, allows licensed massage therapists to practice in all states that join the compact. This initiative simplifies practicing in multiple states, requiring only one multistate license.
Colorado's Participation: Colorado currently does not currently have the IMpact enacted. However, the compact map on the official Interstate Massage Compact website offers the latest updates on which states have enacted, are pending, or have not introduced the relevant legislation.
Given the evolving nature of interstate compacts and licensure requirements, it's advisable for Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) in Colorado to regularly check for updates, especially regarding the state's involvement in the Interstate Massage Compact.
This participation could significantly alter licensure requirements and practice opportunities in multiple states. For the most current information, it would be beneficial to consult the Colorado Department of Regulatory Authorities (DORA).
Costs per day represents the cost of the total policy amount divided by policy days. Daily payments are not available.
