How to transfer a massage license from Ohio to Florida

Two of my most popular blog posts are about transferring a massage license to Florida and the Florida endorsement process. I have received numerous emails about various unique situations.

One that I frequently receive is from Ohio licensed massage therapists looking to relocate to Florida, and which licensing exams are approved by the Florida Board of Massage.

And you most likely know Ohio had its own state massage licensing exam until 2012. The Ohio Board of Massage then ruled to discontinue administering their own exam and accept the FSMTB’s MBLEx as their state licensing exam. This was a good thing for massage license portability and reciprocity.

If you received your Ohio massage license by taking the MBLEx, you are considered an endorsement candidate for a Florida massage license. You can also apply by endorsement if you took the MBLEx after you got your Ohio license as long as your Ohio license is still active.

But what if you took the former exam administered by the Ohio Medical Board before 2012?

I have contacted the Board about various state licensing exams, including the Ohio state licensing exam, and I always receive the same response:

A state licensing exam is not a Florida Board of Massage Therapy approved exam. The following exams are approved for obtaining a Florida license: NCETMB, NCETM, NESL or the MBLEx.

So, yes you will need to take one of the approved exams. The Florida Board of Massage does not budge on this issue (except in 2017 when they moved to accept the NYS exam).

If you passed the previous Ohio Massage Board exam, I am confident you can pass either the MBLEx. (even if you went to school years ago). The Ohio exam was known for being quite difficult. Here is more about studying for the MBLEx.

If you are ready to get started on the first step of getting your Florida license, here is the 10 Hour Florida Massage Laws and Rules class you will be required to take.

Other notes:

The State Medical Board of Ohio is charging a $50.00 fee to complete and send a letter of good standing or license verification to another State Board, Canadian Province or other jurisdiction.  If you have questions regarding the forms or fees, you may call the CME and Renewal department at 614-466-3934, or email med.record@med.state.oh.us.