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
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
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — Third-party exam
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 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.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.