Minnesota
Voluntary registration available July 1, 2028
Title: Registered Massage Therapist or Registered Asian Bodywork Massage Therapist
Requirements: State and national criminal history background check, liability insurance.
Before July 1, 2031: Completion of a qualifying post secondary program—certain subject areas must be met. Or provide proof of practicing two of the last five years.
After July 1, 2031: 625 hours.
Renewal: No CEU requirement/2 years
House File 3825 was enacted, creating voluntary registration for massage and Asian bodywork therapists, advancing the profession forward by establishing clearer standards and introducing state-level oversight. The optional registration will take effect July 1, 2028.
Senate File 1131 once promised real progress for Minnesota massage and bodywork therapists has taken a turn, but don't give up hope quite yet. The bill was amended from a strong statewide licensure model to a voluntary registration model, which would do nothing to advance the profession. ABMP opposes these amendments because your profession merits regulation that protects your work and your clients and we will not support anything less.
Do you want to serve the best interests of your profession and the public while ensuring ongoing competence and high standards of practice? ABMP does, and if you do too, help us support licensing efforts in Minnesota! The legislature introduced Senate File 1131 (SF 1131) and House File 362 (HF 362), both of which would require statewide licensure for massage and Asian bodywork therapists. ABMP supports SF 1131 and HF 362 because they propose acceptable licensing requirements, licensu
For years, Minnesota massage therapists have navigated a maze of city ordinances, inconsistent rules, and unclear expectations. That could finally change. Two bills introduced in 2025—Senate File 1131/House File 362—will create statewide licensure for massage and Asian bodywork therapy. Let's look at what's in the bills, why they matter, and how you can act to support licensure in Minnesota beginning in February 2026. What the Bills Would DoThese bills aim to establish a statewide licensure syst
Governor Tim Walz signed a bill into law, allowing a county or city to investigate the criminal history of any individual who applies for a business license.
ABMP submitted written commentary to the Minnesota legislature regarding Senate File 967 and House File 973, which would create statewide licensure for massage and bodywork therapists. We support this legislation and invite you to read our comments and write to your elected officials.