
Reflexology and Foot Massage Laws in New York
. State Overview of Reflexology
-
Reflexology is not listed as an exempt modality under New York’s massage‐therapy statutes. New York law defines “massage therapy” to include any methodical soft‐tissue manipulation—reflexology included—so practitioners must hold a valid massage license to offer reflexology services op.nysed.gov.
-
Several bills (e.g., A03405 in 2023) have been introduced to create a separate reflexology license, but none have passed to date nysenate.gov.
Link to full state overview →
https://www.raynormassage.com/reflexology-regulations-and-laws-state-by-state-across-the-us
2. New York Massage Therapy Licensing
To legally perform reflexology (or any foot‐/hand‐based soft‐tissue work) in New York, you must be licensed as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) through the Office of the Professions:
Requirement | Details |
---|---|
Education | 1,000 hours of approved massage‐therapy instruction, covering anatomy, pathology, first aid, theory, technique, and supervised practicum |
Examination | Pass the New York State Massage Therapy Examination (state‐specific) |
Other Prerequisites | ≥ 21 years old; high school diploma/GED; criminal background check & fingerprints; liability insurance; CPR/AED certification |
Renewal & Continuing Education | Renew every 3 years with 36 hours of continuing education |
Apply & Learn More →
https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/massage-therapy/license-requirements
3. Reflexology vs. Massage Therapy
-
Reflexology: Focused pressure on reflex points of the feet, hands, or ears.
-
Massage Therapy: Defined under Education Law Article 155 to include all systematic soft‐tissue manipulation methods (kneading, stretching, reflexology, etc.).
In New York, reflexology is legally a form of massage therapy—so no separate exemption applies.
4. Local Business & Health-Department Permits
Even with state licensure, most New York municipalities require local permits for massage/reflexology establishments:
-
New York City: All massage businesses must register with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene as a “Massage Establishment.”
-
Albany, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse: Typically require a business license and may inspect premises through local health departments.
Tip: Always confirm local requirements through your city or county clerk’s office or local Health Department before opening.
5. Raynor Reflexology Guidance in New York
Raynor-trained reflexologists must hold a New York LMT license to lawfully provide reflexology services.
For commercial operations, secure any required local permits, and clearly advertise:
“Certified Raynor Reflexology – Performed by Licensed Massage Therapist.”
Leverage our world‐class curriculum to stand out while staying fully compliant.
Explore Raynor Courses →
https://www.raynormassage.com/courses
Read Our Testimonials
Discover more client success stories →
Raynor Testimonials
6. Quick Reference Table
Service Type | State License Required? | Local Permit Often Required? |
---|---|---|
Reflexology (any modality) | Yes (LMT) | Yes (health‐dept/business permit) |
Massage Therapy (LMT) | Yes | Yes (establishment/business permit) |
Raynor Reflexologists | Yes (LMT) | Yes (for commercial operations) |
7. FAQs
Q: Can I advertise “reflexology” without an LMT license?
A: No—New York law classifies reflexology as massage therapy. Only licensed massage therapists may offer reflexology services.
Q: Are any local reflexology exemptions?
A: No separate state or local exemption exists—reflexology always falls under massage therapy regulations.
Q: What about the bills proposing reflexology licensing?
A: Bills like A03405 (2023) and A03425 (2021) aimed to create a reflexology license but did not advance beyond committee nysenate.gov.
8. Resources & Links
-
New York State Overview (all states)
https://www.raynormassage.com/reflexology-regulations-and-laws-state-by-state-across-the-us -
NY Office of the Professions: Massage Therapy (Licensing & Regulations)
https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/massage-therapy/laws-rules-regulations/part-78 op.nysed.gov -
Raynor Massage Courses
https://www.raynormassage.com/courses -
Testimonials – Hear from our happy clients!
https://www.raynormassage.com/testimonials
Disclaimer: Laws, regulations, and local ordinances can change. Always verify current requirements with the New York State Board of Massage Therapy and your local licensing authorities before opening or advertising your practice.