This government agency, a division of the Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses, consists of five members. Its mission is “to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public through the licensure and regulation of massage therapists.”
The board reviews license applications to confirm that prospective practitioners have the education, test scores, and other qualifications that the state code mandates. The panel also enforces rules governing license renewals and continuing education requirements.
In addition, the board registers massage therapy schools. It recognizes only universities, colleges, and institutes that offer education programs meeting state standards concerning curricula.
Minimum Education Requirements for Massage Therapy Programs in Idaho
To be considered for admission to a massage therapy school, a student needs a high school diploma or GED. Some schools recommend taking certain preparatory classes during the junior and senior years of high school.
The state code stipulates that an approved school program must provide at least 500 clock hours of instruction and training. This is to include:
- 125 hours of body systems courses, such as Anatomy & Physiology and Kinesiology
- 200 hours of assessment, theory, and application of massage and bodywork
- 40 hours of pathology
- 25 hours of ethics and business
- 110 hours of clinical experience
Beyond the required coursework, programs vary in the types of massage techniques and other therapies they teach.
To become a massage therapist in Idaho, a graduate of an accredited, approved school must apply for a state license. To qualify, it is necessary to post an acceptable score on the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
The 100-question, multiple-choice test assesses a student’s comprehension of concepts such as client assessment, treatment plans, the benefits and physiological effects of massage techniques, pathology and contraindications, therapy for special populations, ethics, laws, and regulations.
The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards administers the exam. Applicants may register online, with the payment of a substantial fee.
Students take the MBLEx at a Pearson VUE Testing Center. The company has three sites in Boise, as well as one in Nampa and another in Twin Falls. Pearson VUE sends exam results to the state board.
Practitioners must renew their licenses every year, which involves obtaining six credits of continuing education. This must include one hour of ethics.