The MBLEx is the main licensing exam for massage therapists in the United States. Most states require you to pass the MBLEx before you can get your massage therapy license. Here is what you need to know about the exam, how to prepare, and what to expect on test day.
What is the MBLEx?
MBLEx stands for Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination. It is created and managed by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB). The exam tests your knowledge of massage therapy concepts, techniques, safety, and ethics. Passing the MBLEx is required for licensure in most US states.
Who needs to take the MBLEx?
If you have finished a massage therapy program and want to get licensed, you will most likely need to take the MBLEx. A few states have their own exams, but the majority accept or require the MBLEx. Check your state's rules on our state requirements page.
MBLEx exam format
The MBLEx is a computer-based test. Here are the basics:
Questions
100 multiple choice
Time limit
2 hours
Cost
$195 per attempt
Location
Pearson VUE test centers
What the MBLEx covers
The exam covers seven main content areas. Each area makes up a set percentage of the questions:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Kinesiology
- Pathology and contraindications
- Benefits and effects of massage
- Client assessment and treatment planning
- Ethics, boundaries, and laws
- Guidelines for professional practice
How to prepare for the MBLEx
Start studying at least 4 to 6 weeks before your test date. Here are some tips that work for most people:
Review your school notes
Your massage therapy program covered most of what is on the exam. Start with your textbook and class notes for anatomy, kinesiology, and pathology.
Take practice tests
Practice exams help you get used to the question format and find gaps in your knowledge. Aim for at least 3 full practice tests before the real exam.
Focus on weak areas
After each practice test, review the questions you missed. Spend extra time on your weakest content areas instead of reviewing what you already know well.
Study ethics and law
Many students focus on anatomy and forget about ethics. Ethics questions are on the exam, and they are easy points if you prepare.
MBLEx scoring and results
The MBLEx uses scaled scoring. You need a minimum scaled score to pass, but the FSMTB does not publish the exact passing score or percentage. You get your results at the testing center right after you finish. If you pass, your results go to your state board. If you do not pass, you can retake the exam after a waiting period (usually 30 days).
What to do on exam day
- Arrive 30 minutes early with two forms of ID
- Leave your phone, bags, and notes in a locker
- Read each question carefully before answering
- Skip hard questions and come back to them later
- Use all 2 hours. Do not rush.
After you pass: track your CE hours
Once you pass the MBLEx and get licensed, your state will require continuing education hours to renew. RubCE tracks your CE hours by category, counts down to your expiry date, and sends push reminders. It is free for one license and works on iPhone and Android.