As of early 2006, approximately 35 states mandate massage regulation and licensing. Massage schools throughout the country are educating future massage practitioners and equipping them with the knowledge and skills to practice massage safely and effectively at entry level positions. Anatomy, ethics, and safety to the public are among the required curriculum in massage schools which range from 500 to 800 hours of instruction. Licenses must be renewed in South Carolina every two years. Advanced education is available for those practitioners who wish to educate themselves in specialized areas. These courses can be in areas such as medically-oriented massage, Asian oriented bodywork, therapeutic and sport oriented massage and more.

South Carolina regulates massage therapy under the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, Division of Professional Occupational Licensing Boards. South Carolina massage laws mandate a 500-hour course of study with a specialized curriculum and a passing score on an approved national certification exam. Six continuing education hours per year must be attained for license renewal. Massage laws are written for the protection of the public first and foremost. The client is encouraged to gather the information necessary to find a qualified massage practitioner. There are several professional massage therapy organizations which mandate a higher skill level for its members. Organizations, such as the American Massage Therapy Association offer a 'Find a massage therapist' locator service for the consumer. You may contact the AMTA at www.amtamassage.org.

Listed below are some of the South Carolina requirements.