***COVID-19 UPDATES***
COVID-19 Guidance and Best Practices
For the most up to date information on the District's response to COVID-19, including information on best practices, licensure waivers, and recommended guidelines, please go to coronavirus.dc.gov.
Closure of Walk In Services
Due to ongoing efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19, effective immediately the Health Regulation and Licensing Administration (HRLA) is implementing a 100% telework policy, and will be available for mail services only. No walk-ins or appointments are allowed. Please submit all applications and supplemental documents via mail to HRLA 1, PO Box 37802, Washington, DC 20013. If you are already in contact with a Health Licensing Specialist (HLS), please forward any documents to said HLS via email.
If you require assistance from the Board of Massage Therapy, please contact Thelma Ofosuh-Mensah at [email protected].
Licensure Waivers
In response to COVID-19, DC Health has waived all licensure requirements for practitioners who are licensed in good standing in another jurisdiction. You can read more about the waiver process HERE.
Virtual Board Meetings
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all board meetings will be held virtually during the declared public health emergency. Information on how to access the public portion of the meeting is listed on the Open Session Agenda.
The Board of Massage Therapy regulates the practice of massage therapy, including licensing massage therapists. The Board advises the Mayor, evaluates applicants' qualifications, and recommends standards and procedures. The Board also issues licenses, receives and reviews complaints, requests investigations, conducts hearings, and issues an annual report. Members must file personal financial disclosure statements. The Board consists of five members appointed by the Mayor: four massage therapists licensed in the District and one consumer member. Licenses expire on January 31 of odd years.
- January 16
- March 18 (canceled)
- May 21
- July 16
- September 16
- November 19
- Massage Therapy Application Package
- Online License Renewal (CLOSED)
- Criminal Background Check
Licensure Search
Discipline
- File a Complaint
- Disciplinary Actions Taken (to come)
Board Meetings
Policy Statements
- Policy Statement on Identifying Public Health Issues for Continuing Education
- Massage Therapy Continuing Education Policy
- 2020 Suspension of Live, Classroom-setting Requirement for Continuing Education and CPR Training during COVID-19
- 2016 Revised Policy Statement on Continuing Education, including acceptance or NCBTMB-approved CE providers and courses
Regulations
- DC Municipal Regulations for Massage Therapy [PDF]
- Department of Health- Notice of Final Rulemaking - Requires massage therapists to obtain hands-on,massage-technique continuing education, complete CPR and first aid certification in person, and maintain valid CPR/first aid certification throughout the licensure period.
Additional Information