Wisconsin Massage Therapist State Requirements

Massage Therapy Schools in Wisconsin

Choosing the right massage school for prospective massage therapists in Illinois is a critical step in their career journey. Here are reputable schools from different regions in Wisconsin:

• North - Fox Valley School of Massage (Appleton, WI): Nestled in the picturesque Fox Valley region, this school offers a comprehensive curriculum integrating Eastern and Western massage techniques. Students benefit from small class sizes.
• South - Aveda Institute Madison (Madison, WI): Aspiring therapists seeking a holistic approach to massage therapy will thrive at the Aveda Institute Madison. Students can access Aveda's renowned products and learn how to incorporate aromatherapy and other spa modalities into their practice.
• East - Lakeside School of Massage Therapy (Madison, WI): Lakeside School of Massage Therapy stands out for its integrative approach to massage education. Students here can learn from experienced instructors specializing in various modalities, including sports massage, myofascial release, and Thai massage. 
• West - Chippewa Valley Technical College (Eau Claire, WI): Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) offers a comprehensive massage therapy program with a unique focus on entrepreneurship. Students receive business management, marketing, and ethics training, empowering them to launch and grow their successful massage therapy businesses upon graduation.
• Central - Globe University & Wisconsin School of Massage Therapy (Wausau, WI): Globe University & Wisconsin School of Massage Therapy, located in the heart of Wausau, provides students with a well-rounded education beyond massage techniques. The school's close-knit community and supportive faculty encourage an environment where students can grow both personally and professionally.

Insurance Requirements

In Wisconsin, licensed massage therapists (LMTs) must secure licensure and maintain a Wisconsin massage liability insurance policy covering at least 1,000,000 per occurrence and $1,000,000 annually.

Massage Magazine Insurance Plus offers policies that meet and exceed the requirements put forth by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.

For more detailed information, check out our Wisconsin massage insurance page.

License Renewals

Renewing your massage therapy license in Wisconsin is key to maintaining your professional status. Here's what to expect:

Renewals must be completed by 02/28/ every odd year.

License Renewal Steps:

• Complete Continuing Education:
  • Fulfill the state's continuing education requirement by completing a minimum of 24 hours of approved coursework or training every two years on odd-numbered years.
  • Must verify current CPR/AED certification
• Gather Required Documentation:
  • Collect certificates of completion or transcripts from accredited providers to verify your continuing education hours.
• Submit Renewal Application:
  • Obtain the massage therapy license renewal application from the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) website or directly from the licensing board.
  • Fill out the renewal application form accurately and completely, ensuring all information is current.
• Pay Renewal Fee:
  • Submit the renewal fee of $60 (85 if late) along with your application. Fees can be paid online or by mail, as specified by DSPS.
• Wait for Processing:
  • Allow approximately 4-6 weeks for DSPS to process your renewal application. It's advisable to submit your application well before your license expiration date to ensure licensure is maintained.
• Receive Confirmation:
  • Once your renewal application is processed and approved, you will receive confirmation of your renewed massage therapy license from DSPS.

Continuing Education (CE) Requirements:

To maintain your massage therapy license in Wisconsin, you must complete continuing education to stay current with industry developments. You must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years, including 2 in ethics. These courses help you enhance your skills, stay updated on best practices, and provide the best possible care to your clients.

MMIP offers over 60 hours of free online continuing education when you sign up for a policy.

Transfer of License and License Reciprocity

For massage therapists seeking to transfer their license to Wisconsin or understand the state's reciprocity policies, here's what you need to know:

License Transfer Methods:

• Must hold a massage therapy or bodywork therapy license, registration, or certificate from a state with requirements equal to or exceeding 500 hours.
• Submit an application and proof of current equivalent licensure from another U.S. state or territory.
• Provide evidence of malpractice liability insurance coverage with minimum limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $1,000,000 annually.
• Must not have a criminal conviction.
• Demonstrate one of the following:
  • Certification by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) or an equivalent organization accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
  • You are passing an approved examination such as the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) or the Board Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCETMB).
  • Completion of an examination deemed substantially equivalent by the board, along with at least 500 hours of classroom instruction in massage or bodywork therapy at an accredited school.

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.

• Wisconsin's Participation: Wisconsin currently has legislation pending for the IMpact to be enacted under bill 716

For in-depth information and to get started with the Interstate Massage Compact, please visit our Interstate Massage Compact Page.

Given the evolving nature of interstate compacts and licensure requirements, licensed massage therapists (LMTs) in Wisconsin should check for updates regularly, especially regarding the state's involvement in the Interstate Massage Compact under prospective legislative bill 716. 

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 Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services and the official Interstate Massage Compact website.