Resources for Therapists

Everything you need to practice with confidence in Hawaiʻi — licensing, CEU requirements, state laws, and professional tools.

Licensing in Hawaiʻi

Massage therapy in Hawaiʻi is regulated by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Professional and Vocational Licensing Division. All practicing massage therapists must hold a valid state license.

Initial License Requirements

To obtain a massage therapy license in Hawaiʻi, applicants must complete a minimum of 570 hours of massage therapy education from an approved school, pass a recognized national exam (such as the MBLEx), and submit an application with the required fee to the DCCA.

License Renewal

Hawaiʻi massage therapy licenses must be renewed biennially. Renewal requires completion of continuing education hours and payment of the renewal fee. Check the DCCA website for current renewal deadlines and requirements.

DCCA Licensing Portal

Apply for, renew, or verify a massage therapy license through the Hawaiʻi DCCA online licensing portal at pvl.ehawaii.gov.

CEU Requirements

Continuing education is required for license renewal in Hawaiʻi. Requirements may change — always verify current requirements with the DCCA.

Required Hours

Licensed massage therapists in Hawaiʻi must complete continuing education hours each renewal cycle. Contact the DCCA or visit their website for the current required number of hours.

Approved Providers

CEU courses must be from approved providers. AMTA Hawaiʻi works with NCBTMB-approved instructors and providers to offer qualifying courses for our members.

Acceptable Topics

Approved CEU topics typically include massage techniques, anatomy and physiology, pathology, ethics, business practices, and other subjects relevant to massage therapy practice.

Hawaiʻi Massage Laws & Rules

Understanding the laws and administrative rules that govern massage therapy practice in Hawaiʻi is essential for every licensed therapist.

HRS Chapter 452

The primary statute governing massage therapy in Hawaiʻi. Covers licensure requirements, scope of practice, prohibited acts, and penalties. Available through the Hawaiʻi State Legislature website at capitol.hawaii.gov.

HAR Title 16, Chapter 84

The administrative rules implementing HRS Chapter 452. Covers application procedures, examination requirements, continuing education, and professional conduct standards.

Scope of Practice

Hawaiʻi law defines the scope of practice for licensed massage therapists. Practicing outside your scope — including providing medical diagnoses or treatments — is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

AMTA National Resources

As an AMTA member, you have access to a comprehensive suite of professional resources from the national association.

AMTA Member Benefits

Access professional liability insurance, research tools, business resources, and member discounts through your AMTA national membership at amtamassage.org.

Massage Therapy Research

AMTA maintains a robust library of massage therapy research and evidence-based practice resources to support your clinical work and client education.

Advocacy & Legislative Updates

Stay informed on national and state legislative issues affecting massage therapy through AMTA's advocacy resources and government relations updates.

Find a Massage Therapist

AMTA's national therapist locator helps clients find licensed AMTA members in their area. Make sure your profile is up to date at amtamassage.org.