Senate Bill (SB) 731 called for voluntary statewide certification of massage therapists and was chaptered into California Law on September 27th, 2008. The passage of this law created the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC).




There are two levels of certification:

1. Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) requires a minimum of 500 hours of education

2. Certified Massage Practitioner (CMP) requires a minimum of 250 hours of education

The 'Certified' Massage Therapist (CMT) or 'Certified' Massage Practitioner (CMP) title signifies to consumers that the CMT or CMP meets or exceeds quality standards established by SB 731 and has undergone a background investigation. For spas and other massage employers, hiring a CMT or CMP will make a statement of quality reflecting a commitment to best serve customers.

For anyone not certified by CAMTC, SB 731 makes it an unfair business practice for a person to use the titles "Certified Massage Therapist", "Certified Massage Practitioner", "CMT", or "CMP".

When looking for a massage therapist make sure they are certified through the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC). Ask the therapist to show proof of their certification. They will have a business size card with their photo and a certificate number. (Examples Above).

Many local business are not adhering to the SB731 guidelines. Because I, as the owner of my business, am certified through CAMTC every therapist or practitioner in my building must also be certified through CAMTC. In other words, everyone must be either certified or not certifed. If they are not certifed they cannot use the "certified" title. Anyone who is not certified cannot work in a building where others are certified.