05/14/2026
AMTA-MA Continuing Education and Licensing Update
May 2026
The AMTA-MA wants to highlight three important updates regarding Massachusetts massage therapy licensing and renewals.
1. New Continuing Education Requirement (Effective June 1st)
The Massachusetts Board of Registration for Massage Therapy (BORMT) will begin enforcing a new continuing education requirement of three (3) hours in ethics during each license renewal period. Eligible courses are available through the AMTA website, including free and low-cost options. Courses that incorporate ethics into broader coursework are acceptable if the agenda or curriculum clearly identifies the ethics component. Anti-human trafficking courses also qualify.
2. New Online Licensing System
The Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL) is transitioning to a new online licensing platform called eLIPSE (Electronic Licensing, Inspections, Permitting, Software Engine). Licensees must create an online account to renew and manage their licenses. This change is part of a broader effort to allow residents and businesses to access multiple state services using a single login. For instructions on how to proceed through eLIPSE, the DOL has prepared step-by-step guides that you can find here: eLIPSE How-to Guides. (The BORMT migrates to the new system on May 18th).
3. Practical Changes for Renewals
· No more paper licenses. The Commonwealth will no longer mail paper licenses. Licensees may print their electronic license for their records.
· CORI authorization required. Renewal applicants must upload a new Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) authorization form.
· Email address required. The DOL and BORMT will communicate primarily by email and are no longer accepting paper submissions by mail. Licensees should ensure the Board has a current email address to receive renewal reminders and important notices.
The AMTA-MA recognizes that these changes may cause some confusion. State licensing staff have indicated they are working to resolve issues with the new system. Members experiencing repeated difficulties or delayed responses from the DOL are encouraged to contact AMTA-MA for assistance.
