MBLEx Exam info
What it is, what's tested, and how it's scored.
MBLEx exam details
The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) functions as the national entry-level licensing exam for massage therapy practitioners. The MBLEx is currently used for licensure in 46 of the 49 regulated states and jurisdictions, including the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) oversees and manages the credentialing process for massage therapists and related professionals.
The MBLEx exam is hosted by FSMTB and costs $265 to register. Participants have 110 minutes to answer 100 multiple-choice questions. The passing score is 630 (out of 300-900 scale).
Time
110 minutes
Format
100 multiple-choice questions
Exam fee
$265
Passing score
630 (out of 300-900 scale)
Details
MBLEx requirements
The FSMTB license certifies that massage therapy professionals can perform their duties safely and effectively, providing top-quality services to their clients. The requirements include:
Reading through the MBLEx Candidate Handbook
Receive training through an approved massage therapy education program
Apply using the official MBLEx application
Submit education verification
If you are approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT), containing instructions to schedule your exam. You must complete the test within the date range on your ATT at an approved Pearson VUE testing site.
MBLEx exam summary
Anatomy and Physiology
11%
11 questions
Covers system structure (cardiovascular, digestive, endocrine, etc.), system function, tissue injury and repair, and concepts of energetic anatomy.
Kinesiology
12%
12 questions
Assesses knowledge of skeletal muscle components and characteristics, contractions, proprioceptors, joint structure and function, and range of motion.
Pathology, Contraindications, Areas of Caution, Special Populations
14%
14 questions
Focuses on site-specific and pathology-related contraindications, tools, special applications, and classes of medications.
Benefits and Effects of Soft Tissue Manipulation
15%
15 questions
Introduces the physiological and psychological effects of soft tissue manipulation, the effects of manipulation for specific client populations, soft tissue techniques (strokes, application sequence, etc.), hot and cold applications, and bodywork/massage modalities.
Client Assessment, Reassessment & Treatment Planning
17%
17 questions
Covers the organization of a massage/bodywork session, client consultation and evaluation (verbal intake and health history form), written data collection, visual assessment (general, postural, and gait), palpation assessment, range of motion, and clinical reasoning.
Ethics, Boundaries, Laws, Regulation
16%
16 questions
Tests knowledge of professional boundaries, code of ethics violations, therapeutic relationships, dual relationships, massage and bodywork-related laws and regulations, scope of practice, professional communication, and confidentiality.
Guidelines For Professional Practice
15%
15 questions
Covers proper and safe use of supplies and equipment, hygiene, sanitation, and cleanliness, practitioner care, draping, business practices, and healthcare and business terminology.
Achievable MBLEx content outline
1
Anatomy and physiology
Covers the structure and function of major body systems, including the nervous, reproductive, digestive, respiratory, and urinary systems. Emphasizes the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and cranial nerves in relation to massage practice.
2
Kinesiology
Introduces movement science, including muscles, joints, and proprioceptors. Covers skeletal muscle locations, actions, and joint structure and function.
3
Pathology, contraindications, areas of caution, and special populations
Explains common conditions, pathology concepts, and medication classes. Emphasizes recognizing contraindications, precautions, and adapting care for special populations.
4
Benefits and effects of soft tissue manipulation
Covers the physiological, mechanical, and psychological effects of massage. Includes circulatory benefits, reflex responses, and the use of heat and cold applications.
5
Assessment and planning
Focuses on client evaluation through observation, interviews, and assessment techniques. Covers palpation, posture, range of motion, pain, and functional limitations to guide treatment planning.
6
Laws and ethics
Introduces legal requirements, professional boundaries, and ethical standards in massage therapy. Emphasizes client safety, confidentiality, and scope of practice.
7
Professional practice
Covers business practices, communication, and professional development. Emphasizes client relationships, documentation, and maintaining a safe and effective practice.