How to Become a Licensed Massage Therapist in Delaware: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Wanting to become a licensed massage therapist but not sure where to start? Or are you simply curious about how our amazing healing professionals began their journey? No need to look further. We’re giving you a quick peek into the path of becoming a licensed massage therapist and how having the right support system throughout your training can make all the difference.
Here is a step-by-step guide to navigating the licensing process in Delaware:
1. Meet Basic Requirements
Start your journey by meeting Delaware’s foundational requirements. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a current hands-on CPR certification.
Note: the state does not accept online-only CPR courses.
2. Complete an Approved Massage Therapy Program
You must graduate from a school approved by the state board.
The Hours: Delaware law requires a minimum of 625 hours of supervised, in-class study (updated from the previous 500-hour requirement).
The Curriculum: This includes 100 hours of Anatomy and Physiology, 300 hours of technique and theory, 25 hours of ethics and law, and 200 hours of electives.
The School Advantage: At Healing Hands School of Massage, our curriculum is fully updated to reflect these exact state requirements, helping ensure your education aligns seamlessly with Delaware licensing standards.
3. Complete a Criminal Background Check
Delaware requires both an FBI and State criminal background check. This must be completed before you are eligible to sit for the licensing exam.
Schedule your background check through IdentoGO using service code 27S318. This process includes a required fee, and current pricing can be found on the IdentoGO website. Be sure to bring two valid forms of identification to your appointment.
You can track the receipt of your results and view real-time status updates by logging into your DELPROS portal.
4. Pass the Licensing Exam
Show the state that you are ready to practice safely by taking the MBLEx (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination), administered by the FSMTB (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards). The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. Please note that the MBLEx exam includes a fee, and applicants should verify the most up-to-date cost before registering. The current fee is approximately $265, but it is subject to change.
Pro Tip: Don’t stress about studying alone. Our curriculum is designed to meet Delaware state standards and incorporates dedicated MBLEx test preparation into our modules to help students feel confident and prepared for exam day.
5. Submit Your Application via DELPROS
Applications are currently managed through DELPROS, Delaware’s online licensing portal. Create an account, upload the required documents, and submit the application fee.
Note: If the instructions require you to click “acknowledge,” you or a third party may need to mail certain requirements directly to the board office instead of uploading them.
6. Submit Supporting Documents
Submit all required documents to complete your application, including:
Official transcripts sent directly from your school.
Official MBLEx exam results sent directly from the testing agency.
Proof of current CPR certification (both sides of your card).
Any additional documents requested through DELPROS.
DELPROS will provide instructions on the requirements and how to submit them. Be sure to submit all requirements within six months of starting the process; otherwise, you will need to begin again.
7. Board Review & Approval
Once the Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork reviews and approves your application, your license will be issued. You will receive an automated approval email from DELPROS, and you can download your license through your online account once it becomes available and approved.
8. Maintain Your License
Your education doesn’t stop at graduation. To keep your license active, you must renew it every two years. Renewal requires payment of the state renewal fee and completion of 24 hours of Continuing Education (CE) credits.
Start Your Journey With Healing Hands
Starting a new career is never easy, but having the right guidance and support can make a huge difference. Here at Healing Hands School of Massage, we strive to create a supportive learning environment where students can build confidence, develop hands-on skills, and feel prepared throughout their journey. Study under a comprehensive curriculum that also includes CPR certification to help ensure students meet state requirements and feel prepared for licensure.
Our support doesn’t end after licensure, either. We also offer NCBTMB-approved continuing education courses, career guidance, and networking opportunities to help graduates pursue employment after becoming licensed.
Ready for a new career? Join Healing Hands School of Massage, and we’ll guide you every step of the way.
References:
Delaware Division of Professional Regulation – Massage Therapist Licensure
IdentoGO (Fingerprinting / Criminal Background Check Services)
DELPROS – Delaware Professional Regulation Online Portal
Healing Hands School of Massage
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