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Frequently Asked Questions
about the Massage Exam and Certification


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  1. What is the NCBTMB? Founded in 1992, the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) is an independent, private, nonprofit organization that certifies massage and bodywork practitioners. NCBTMB’s certification program is accredited by the National Commission for Certified Agencies (NCCA), the accrediting branch of the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA). NOCA is a national, non-governmental, public protection and standards-setting organization.

  2. What modalities does the NCBTMB's certification include? The massage modalities, techniques, and methods include neuromuscular therapy, reflexology, Swedish massage, shiatsu, polarity therapy, Rolfing®, Trager®, and more. The exam tests your knowledge of commonalities among the modalities.

  3. What are the requirements to be nationally certified?
    A massage therapist or bodyworker must:
    • Complete a minimum of 500 hours of instruction
    • Demonstrate mastery of core skills, abilities and knowledge
    • Pass the standardized NCBTMB exam
    • Follow NCBTMB’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics

  4. What exams are offered? The NCBTMB offers two exams:
    • The National Examination for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM)
    • The National Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCETMB).

    The NCETM covers only the basic approach for Western massage techniques, and the NCETMB covers the basic approaches for both Western and Eastern massage, and bodywork techniques.

    Both lead to national certification and share the same eligibility criteria. Click here for more information about exam content.

  5. What can I expect when I take the exam?
    In either test, you can expect to find 160 questions with four multiple choice answers. You are allowed 2 hours and 40 minutes to take the test. Don't leave any answer blank! You'll find out your score right after the exam, and if you pass, your certificate will be insued in 4 to 6 weeks.

  6. How many states require the NCBTMB's certification?
    Currently, 35 of 40 states which regulate licensed massage therapist and bodyworkers use or recognize NCBTMB examinations in statute or rule. Find out if your state uses the NCBTMB by viewing this map.

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