MBLEx Test Guide

The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) administers the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), which is designed to provide a standard exam for massage students to guarantee safe and effective massage therapy and bodywork practices.

Potential examinees must meet the following requirements to be eligible to apply for the examination:

• Must gain approval from the state licensing board or FSMTB, which typically includes reviewing the exam content and verifying education
• Must agree in writing to abide by FSMTB policies
• Must pay an exam fee

The computer-based exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, which examinees have 120 minutes to complete. Unscheduled restroom or food breaks are allowed, but the clock does not stop. Seven subject areas are covered:

• Client assessment, reassessment and treatment planning
• Benefits and physiological effects of soft tissue manipulation
• Pathology, contraindications, areas of caution, special populations
• Ethics, boundaries and laws and regulations
• Guidelines for professional practice
• Kinesiology
• Anatomy and physiology

As of 2023, examination results are reported as PASS or FAIL and not based on a numeric score. Exam results are transmitted electronically. The state board you entered on your MBLEx application will receive an official examination result within five business days. The FSMTB does not limit the number of times a candidate may retest; however, some states do limit the number of times a candidate may take the test. Check with your state for guidance. Those that fail the examination and wish to retake it must submit a Retake Application Form.

The exam is offered year-round at Pearson Professional Centers throughout the US. An authorization to test (ATT) will be sent to candidates that have been approved to test so they may register for a particular test date and location. The ATT will have possible exam dates listed for which examinees may register within a 90-day period. Candidates may register online at the Pearson VUE website or by calling customer service toll-free at 888-790-4892. There is an exam fee.

Once scheduled, candidates will receive more information in the mail about the date, reporting time and directions to the test site. Examinees are advised to bring their registration confirmation notice with them to the testing center. Candidates should allow themselves plenty of time to get to their test site and arrive at least 30 minutes before their appointment to sign in. Part of the check-in procedure includes getting a digital photograph and fingerprint taken.

Two current forms of identification are required at check-in. Primary identification must include a photograph and signature. The name that appears on the identification must match the application and NTS.

Tests.com has worked with instructors in massage therapy to create an MBLEx practice test to help you prepare for your certification exam.  Tests.com's TestSim online interactive platform allows you to tailor tests to the subjects you want to study and to form tests to fit your study schedule.  Form tests of 30, 40, 100, 150 or even hundreds of questions.  Get instant scoring and review.  The answers are fully explained for ideal study.  You can even simulate the actual exam by setting the number of questions and timer to the time period allowed for the actual test.  Get experience reading multiple-choice quesitons and taking timed tests.  Tests.com will help you pass your certification exam and set you on your way to a successful career as a massage therapist.

Are you ready to start preparing for the MBLEx? Please visit the MBLEx Test Directory.

MBLEx is a trademark of the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) that did not produce or endorse this material.