Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in Columbus, OH

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio.

$350 -- $1200 5–12 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: .

Columbus / Franklin County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Columbus Business License / Vendor's License

Columbus requires businesses to obtain a vendor's license from the Ohio Department of Taxation if selling taxable goods or services. Massage establishments also need to register with the City of Columbus and comply with zoning. A Certificate of Occupancy is required for any commercial location.

$25 (vendor's license) + $100–$300 (Certificate of Occupancy)2–4 weeks
Official government source
2

Franklin County DBA (Trade Name Registration)

If operating under a business name other than your legal name, register a DBA with the Franklin County Recorder's Office.

$25–$50Same day to 1 week
Official government source

Ohio State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Ohio Massage Therapy License (OSEL)

Ohio requires all massage therapists to be licensed by the State Medical Board of Ohio. Requirements include completing a State Examination for a License (OSEL), 600 hours of approved education, passing the MBLEx exam, and a background check. Licenses are valid for two years.

$50 (application fee) + $100–$200 (exam fee)4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

Ohio Vendor's License

Required if selling taxable goods or services. Massage therapy services are generally not subject to Ohio sales tax, but retail product sales are taxable. Apply through the Ohio Department of Taxation.

$25Immediate (online)
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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