HowToGetLicensed

Massage Therapist License: California vs North Carolina

Thinking about getting your massage therapist license? Here's how California and North Carolina compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California North Carolina
Education Hours 500 hours 500 hours
Exam MBLEx MBLEx
Application Fee $300 $150
Exam Fee $195 $195
Total Estimated Cost $7,500 - $8,500 $7,000 - $8,000
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 2 years
CE Hours 0 hours 24 hours
Renewal Fee $300 $150

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: North Carolina is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $7,000-$8,000 compared to $7,500-$8,500.

Education: Both states require 500 hours of education.

Full State Guides

Compare massage therapist requirements across all 50 states →