NCBTMB Practice Test

The BCTMB is the highest, non-entry-level credential in the massage therapy and bodywork profession. It is an advanced, voluntary certification that goes beyond the basic requirements for state or provincial licensure, demonstrating a commitment to professional excellence and a higher level of education and experience.

State licensure (often achieved by passing the MBLEx exam) is the minimum legal requirement to practice massage therapy in a particular state. NCBTMB Board Certification (BCTMB) is an advanced credential that demonstrates a higher level of mastery, knowledge, and experience, typically requiring more hours of education (750+ hours) and professional practice than the entry-level license.

To become Board Certified, candidates must meet or exceed several requirements, including:

• Verification of a current state license (if applicable in your state).
• Completion of at least 750 hours of education.
• Completion of 250 hours of documented hands-on experience.
• Passing the Board Certification Exam (BCETMB).
• Passing a criminal background check.
• Agreement to uphold the NCBTMB Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

Create an account on the NCBTMB website, go to the certification section, and follow the online application wizard. You'll upload documents like your license or transcript, and pay the fee. It's all done digitally, and you can contact them at info@ncbtmb.org if you hit any snags.

The content breaks down like this:

• 25% on assessment (like intake and palpation)
• 25% on applied sciences (anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology)
• 20% on modalities and techniques
• 15% on professional communication
• 10% on professionalism and ethics
• 5% on laws and business practices

It goes deeper than entry-level tests.

Use the official online NCBTMB practice exam from Prephow, which has level 2 questions geared toward certification. The Massage Therapy Assessment for Certification (MTAC) gives personalized feedback on your strengths and weaknesses. Review the content outline in the candidate handbook, and consider study guides or courses from approved providers.

It's good for two years. To renew, log into your account, report 20 continuing education hours from approved providers, pass another background check, and pay the $140 fee. You can only use CEs earned in your renewal period.

State licensure is the basic legal requirement to practice in most places, focusing on entry-level skills. Board Certification is a higher, voluntary credential that proves advanced knowledge and opens doors to jobs in healthcare or spas. It's not a replacement for licensure you need both where required.