Massage Therapy Permit Requirements in Columbia, SC

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation — Massage Therapy License

   Massage therapists in South Carolina must be licensed by the SC LLR Board of Massage/Bodywork. Requires 500 hours of training and passing the MBLEx.

   Official government source

   $100 (initial)·4–8 weeks

   $100 (initial)

   4–8 weeks

2. South Carolina Department of Revenue — Retail License

   Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in South Carolina. South Carolina charges a 6% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may add up to 3% more. A $50 one-time license fee applies.

   Official government source

   $50 one-time·Immediate (online via MyDORWAY)

   $50 one-time

   Immediate (online via MyDORWAY)

1. City of Columbia Business License Division — Business License

   The City of Columbia requires an annual Business License for all businesses with a location within city limits. The fee is based on gross revenues. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

   Official government source

   $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues·1–3 weeks

   $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues

   1–3 weeks

2. Zoning / Certificate of Occupancy

   A Certificate of Occupancy is required for any commercial space used as a massage therapy practice. Confirm with City of Columbia Business License Division that the location is properly zoned for personal service businesses.

   Official government source

   $50–$200·1–4 weeks

   $50–$200

   1–4 weeks

Official Sources

• South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation — Massage Therapy License
• City of Columbia Business License Division

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