Can You Get a Massage Therapy License with a Criminal Record? (2026)

If you have a criminal record and are interested in becoming a licensed massage therapist, you may be concerned about how your past could affect your ability to obtain a license. Massage therapy is a profession that involves direct physical contact with clients, often in private settings. As a result, state licensing boards take background checks seriously and may closely review certain types of offenses. However, a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from becoming a licensed massage therapist.

How Massage Therapy Licensing Boards Evaluate Criminal Records

Massage therapy licensing boards that review criminal histories typically consider several factors when evaluating an applicant. Given the nature of massage therapy—which involves physical contact with clients in private settings—boards may pay particular attention to offenses involving sexual misconduct, violence, or abuse. Each application is generally reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Factors that boards commonly consider include:

• Nature and severity of the offense — Whether the conviction is a felony or misdemeanor, and whether it involves sexual misconduct, violence, or abuse.
• Time elapsed since the offense — Many boards look more favorably on offenses that occurred further in the past.
• Evidence of rehabilitation — Completion of probation, counseling, education, or other steps that demonstrate personal growth and readiness to work with vulnerable populations.
• Number of offenses — A single, isolated incident may be viewed differently than a pattern of criminal behavior.
• Relationship to the profession — Offenses involving sexual misconduct or violence may receive closer scrutiny given the hands-on nature of massage therapy.
• Completion of sentence — Whether all terms of the sentence, including probation and counseling requirements, have been satisfied.

State-by-State Background Check Requirements

The following table shows which states require background checks and/or fingerprinting as part of the massage therapist licensing process, along with associated fees where available.

Steps to Improve Your Chances

If you have a criminal record and are pursuing a massage therapy license, consider taking these steps to strengthen your application:

1. Consult an attorney. A lawyer experienced in occupational licensing can review your specific situation and advise you on the best course of action.
2. Contact the licensing board. Many state boards offer pre-application reviews or informal guidance on whether your record may affect your eligibility.
3. Gather documentation of rehabilitation. Collect letters of recommendation, certificates of completion for any programs, and records showing you have fulfilled all terms of your sentence.
4. Be honest and transparent. Failing to disclose a criminal record when asked can result in automatic denial. Full disclosure with context is generally better received.
5. Look into expungement or record sealing. Depending on your state and the nature of the offense, you may be able to have your record expunged or sealed, which could simplify the licensing process.
6. Build professional references. Strong references from educators, clinical supervisors, or community leaders can help demonstrate your character and professionalism.

Additional Resources

For more information about the massage therapy licensing process, visit our guide to getting a massage therapy license. You can also browse massage therapist licensing requirements by state for detailed state-specific information.