Massage Certifications Different localities have different rules and laws regarding whom can call themselves a "massage therapist". Some states have their own licensing process involving tests of some kinds, some accept national certification as criteria, and others have no laws whatsoever in this regard. This makes for a very complicated and confusing situation, as two massage therapists from different states can have very different levels of skill and professionalism. National certification requires at least 500 hours of coursework as well as passage of a written test. Their website is called www.ncbtmb.org Most states that do require licensing require at least 500 hours of coursework, with several states requiring 1,000. Different states have different sites displaying their licensed therapists. If all of this seems confusing (and it is), have heart. Many lawmakers and activists are aware of this and there is an ongoing process to both require certification/licensing and to simplify the process.