Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in New York City, NY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in New York City, New York County, New York.

$800 -- $2500 8–16 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

New York City / New York County Requirements

3 requirements
1

NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection — Massage Establishment License

New York City requires all massage establishments (defined as any place where massage is practiced for compensation) to obtain a Massage Establishment License from the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). All massage therapists must hold a valid New York State license. The application requires background checks for owners, premises inspection, and proof of worker's compensation insurance. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

$400–$600 (biennial license fee)6–12 weeks
Official government source
2

NYC Business Certificate (DBA)

If operating under a trade name, file a Business Certificate (DBA) with the county clerk in the borough where your business is located. For Manhattan businesses, file with the New York County Clerk.

$100 (Manhattan/New York County)Same day to 1 week
Official government source
3

NYC Certificate of Occupancy

Commercial locations in NYC must have a valid Certificate of Occupancy consistent with the use (personal services / assembly). Contact the NYC Department of Buildings.

$100–$500 (if modification needed)2–8 weeks
Official government source

New York State Requirements

1 requirement
1

New York State Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) License

New York State requires massage therapists to be licensed as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) by the Office of the Professions, New York State Education Department. Requirements include 1,000 hours of approved education (one of the highest in the nation), passing the MBLEx exam, and a background check. Licenses are renewable every three years.

$75 (application fee) + $100–$200 (MBLEx exam fee)4–8 weeks after completing the 1,000-hour program
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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