LicenseCompass

MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST License in Wisconsin

Quick Answer

Wisconsin allows massage therapy practice WITHOUT certification, but protects certain titles. To use the title 'Massage or Bodywork Therapist,' obtain certification through the Department of Safety and Professional Services by completing coursework and passing a third-party exam. Military families get reduced fees.

Exam
Third-party exam
Total Cost
$250 (est.)
Timeline
2-4 months
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every Biennial

Requirements

MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST license in Wisconsin

gold
Education
Specific course required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
Fees are reduced for military and spouses

Licensing Agency

WI Department of Safety and Professional Services~Division of Professional Credential Processing

MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST Salary in Wisconsin

Entry Level

$23,980

Median

$57,530

Experienced

$92,220

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST in Wisconsin.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Specific course required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — Third-party exam

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 2-4 months.

MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST Licensing in Wisconsin: What to Know

Wisconsin uses the title 'MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST' and regulates through the Department of Safety and Professional Services. Importantly, Wisconsin allows individuals to PRACTICE massage therapy without certification — but they cannot use certain protected titles (like 'certified massage therapist') without obtaining certification. This voluntary certification system is unusual. The COS data shows requirements for certification include continuing education, specific coursework, and a third-party exam. Fees are reduced for military service members and spouses. Wisconsin's approach represents a middle ground between full licensing and deregulation, protecting professional titles while not restricting practice itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST license cost in Wisconsin?
The estimated total cost is $250, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST license in Wisconsin?
The process typically takes 2-4 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST license in Wisconsin?
You need to pass the Third-party exam. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare MASSAGE OR BODYWORK THERAPIST requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.