Massage Therapist License: New York vs Illinois
Thinking about getting your massage therapist license? Here's how New York and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.
| Requirement | New York | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Education Hours | 1000 hours | 600 hours |
| Exam | New York State Licensing Examination for Massage Therapy | MBLEx |
| Application Fee | $108 | $175 |
| Exam Fee | $143 | $195 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $12,500 - $13,500 | $8,500 - $9,500 |
| Renewal Period | Every 3 years | Every 2 years |
| CE Hours | 36 hours | 24 hours |
| Renewal Fee | $108 | $175 |
Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?
Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $8,500-$9,500 compared to $12,500-$13,500.
Fewer education hours: Illinois requires 600 hours of pre-license education, compared to 1000 hours in New York.
Full State Guides
Compare massage therapist requirements across all 50 states →