Arkansas requires many of the same guidelines as other states do regarding licensure of massage therapists. In addition to education and passage of a national examination, escorts who wish to become massage therapists must undergo criminal background checks and other application procedures to be licensed. Here are the guidelines in Arkansas:
Massage therapists must complete at least 500 hours of classroom instruction from a board-approved massage therapy school. Each class must have a passing grade of at least 75 percent or more.
Massage therapists must submit a complete set of fingerprints to be used for a criminal background check. Fees and disclosure approval statements must accompany the fingerprints.
Applicants are not eligible for licensing if the background check reveals conviction of a felony or class A misdemeanor or any offense involving fraud, theft or dishonesty.
Massage therapist applicants must present proof of a clear tuberculosis test.
Massage therapist applicants must pass the state licensing examination or the Federation of State Massage Therapy Board Massage and Bodywork Exam (MBLEx).
Depending on the circumstances, the board may require the applicant to pass a practical examination.
Massage therapists who are licensed in other states may receive a license in Arkansas if their home state has similar guidelines.
Continuing education requirements of at least 6 hours annually are necessary for license retention.
All massage therapists must refrain from initiating or engaging in sexual conversations, sexual conduct, sexual behavior or sexual activities with their clients.
A license may be revoked if the massage therapist is found guilty of massage therapy treatments of the anus or genitalia.
Professionals who apply "rubdowns" using oils, lotions or other substances are required to be licensed.
