Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in Washington

Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in Washington

1. State Overview of Reflexology & Massage

Under Washington law, “massage therapy” expressly includes reflexology as a therapeutic technique:

“Massage therapy includes techniques such as tapping, compressions, friction, reflexology, … gliding, kneading, shaking, and … connective tissue stretching, with or without … lubricants.” app.leg.wa.gov

Practitioners must either hold a Reflexologist Certificate or a Massage Therapist license—depending on the services they provide.

2. Reflexologist Certification (WAC 246-831)

Washington offers a Reflexologist Certificate through the Department of Health for those who restrict their practice to reflexology on hands and feet:

• Education: Minimum 200 hours from a Board-approved reflexology program, covering the skills in WAC 246-831-040 doh.wa.gov

• Application: School mails your completion form directly to DOH

• Eligibility: ≥ 18 years old; no requirement to hold additional massage credentials

• Renewal: Certificates renew every two years with any DOH-mandated CE

Apply for Your Reflexologist Certificate →
https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/reflexologist/certification-requirements doh.wa.gov

https://youtu.be/C8AOBPD-Huo

3. Massage Therapist Licensing (WAC 246-830)

To perform broader foot-and-leg massage or advertise “massage therapy,” you must hold a Massage Therapist license:

Learn More & Apply →
https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/massage-therapist app.leg.wa.gov

https://youtu.be/0kITCWLS_HQ

4. Local Business & Health-Department Permits

State certification/licensure doesn’t replace municipal requirements. In most Washington cities you’ll need:

• Massage/Reflexology Establishment Permit (e.g., Seattle, Tacoma)

• Business License from city or county clerk

• Health-Department Inspections for sanitation and safety

Tip: Check your local city or county website for specific permit applications before opening.

https://youtu.be/6vUb8nnvteY

5. Raynor® Reflexology Guidance in Washington

• Raynor-trained reflexologists may practice reflexology statewide on hands & feet only under the DOH certificate—without holding a massage license.

• To provide deeper foot-and-leg massage or use tool-assisted techniques, obtain the Massage Therapist license.

• Clearly advertise on your site:

  “Certified Raynor Reflexology – Washington State Certificate #____ (Hands & Feet Only)”

Explore Raynor Courses →
https://www.raynormassage.com/courses/

https://youtu.be/0ER_X2lEchQ

6. Read Our Testimonials

Read more success stories →

https://www.raynormassage.com/testimonials/

7. Quick Reference Table

8. FAQs

Q: Can I practice foot reflexology without a massage license?

A: Yes—if you hold a Reflexologist Certificate and limit services to reflexology on hands and feet doh.wa.gov.

Q: How many CE hours are required for a massage license renewal?

A: 24 hours every two years, with at least four in ethics or state laws app.leg.wa.gov.

https://youtu.be/Z4SL__dzEVU

9. Resources & Links

• DOH Reflexologist Certification Requirements
  https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/reflexologist/certification-requirements doh.wa.gov

• DOH Massage Therapist Licensing
  https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/professions-new-renew-or-update/massage-therapist app.leg.wa.gov

• WA State Massage Rules (WAC 246-830)
  https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246-830 app.leg.wa.gov

• 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 and local ordinances evolve—always verify current requirements with the Washington Department of Health and your local authorities before opening or advertising your practice.

https://youtu.be/swms8dIulzQ