Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in Texas
1. State Overview of Reflexology
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In Texas, reflexology is classified as “Other Massage Services” under TDLR’s Massage Therapy rules (16 TAC § 115.102). Reflexology techniques on hands, feet, or ears are regulated as massage therapy unless a limited exemption applies .
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There is no separate reflexology license—anyone offering reflexology for compensation must either qualify for the exemption or hold a Texas Massage Therapist license.
2. Exemption for Pure Reflexology
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Reflexology of the hands and feet only does not require a Texas massage license—provided you do not perform any massage techniques beyond energy point work, and you do not use protected terms like “massage” in your advertising tdlr.texas.gov.
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Pure reflexology is defined as energy work on hands and feet only, involving holding or touching reflex points—no stroking, rubbing, tapping, stretching, oils, lotions, or work on other body parts.
3. Texas Massage Therapist Licensing
To perform any massage therapy or reflexology beyond the narrow exemption, you must hold a Massage Therapist license from TDLR:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Minimum 500 hours of TDLR‐approved massage training (anatomy, technique, ethics, practicum) |
| Examination | Pass the MBLEx (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam) |
| Background Check & Fingerprints | FBI and Texas DPS criminal history checks; fingerprints required |
| Continuing Education & Renewal | Renew every 2 years with 12 hours of TDLR‐approved continuing education |
| Insurance & Conduct | Maintain liability insurance and adhere to TDLR’s Code of Ethics |
Apply & Learn More →
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/mas/masfaq.htm tdlr.texas.govtdlr.texas.gov.
Q. What is reflexology, as defined in Texas law?
A: Reflexology is not massage therapy when defined as “energy work on the hands and feet only which involves holding or touching the energy points.” It does not include manipulating soft tissue, stroking, rubbing, tapping, stretching, bathing, scrubbing, or using oils or lotions. The practitioner cannot touch any other body part (e.g., ankles) and must not represent themselves as a massage therapist or use any protected terms tdlr.texas.gov.
4. Raynor® Reflexology Guidance
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Raynor-trained reflexologists can legally offer pure reflexology statewide under the TDLR exemption—just avoid performing or advertising massage techniques.
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To offer any tool-assisted or deep-tissue foot-massage work, secure your Massage Therapist license.
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Clearly state on your site:
“Certified Raynor Reflexology – Hands & Feet Only (Not Massage Therapy).”
Explore Raynor Courses →
https://www.raynormassage.com/courses/
5. Read Our Testimonials
Read more success stories →
https://www.raynormassage.com/testimonials
6. Quick Reference Table
| Service Type | License Required? | Local Permit Often Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Reflexology (hands/feet) | No (exempt, no “massage” advertising) | Yes (business/health-dept permit) |
| Reflexology + Massage Techniques | Yes (Massage Therapist license) | Yes |
| Massage Therapy (MT license) | Yes | Yes |
7. Resources & Links
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TDLR Massage FAQs (Q5 & Q6 Reflexology Exemption)
https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/mas/masfaq.htm -
Raynor Massage State Overview (All States)
https://www.raynormassage.com/reflexology-regulations-and-laws-state-by-state-across-the-us/ -
Raynor Massage Courses
https://www.raynormassage.com/courses/ -
Testimonials
https://www.raynormassage.com/testimonials
Disclaimer: Regulations change. Always verify current requirements with TDLR and your local licensing authorities before opening or advertising your practice.
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