Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

MBLEX Exam Cost

The MBLEx exam is a standard test most states use for Massage therapists and body workers. It’s regulated by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, or FSMTB, which was established in 2005 with the intent to build a support system for its Member Boards. Try our NCLEX practice test.

The MBLEX exam is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers. It uses a CAT (Computer Adaptive Test) that delivers questions to the candidate one at a time. The question level will increase with each correct answer and decrease with each incorrect answer. The test is two hours long; you cannot flag a question for later or take a break.

After completing your massage training, you must apply for the MBLEX through the FSMTB. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an ATT (Authorization to Test) from the FSMTB. You can then schedule your appointment with Pearson VUE online or over the phone. The fee for the exam is $265, which includes a non-refundable application and administration fee. You’ll also need to pay a licensure fee, which will vary by state.

NCBTMB Vs MBLEX

In most states regulating massage therapy, successfully completing the MBLEx exam is required before you can start practicing professionally. The MBLEx is administered by the FSMTB and is designed to meet the standards imposed by state regulatory boards. However, it’s important to note that the NCBTMB board certification exam (formerly the BCETMB) differs from the MBLEx.

The MBLEx is a computer-based exam with one hundred multiple-choice questions. It is designed to take two hours to complete. To prepare for this exam, you should familiarize yourself with the MBLEx content outline and study materials. These include textbooks, online courses, practice exams, and flashcards. You can also attend study groups and seek guidance from fellow massage therapists who have successfully passed the MBLEx.

Although the NCETMB was once considered an entry-level licensing exam for massage therapists, it was phased out in favor of the MBLEx. Although the NCETMB is still offered, most states do not accept it as a qualifying examination for massage therapy licenses.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Sample Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Questions

Try these questions from our free Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.

1. What is the physiological basis for the referred sensation experienced when a trigger point is compressed?

   • A. Motor nerve axon sprouting into adjacent dermatomes
   • B. Central sensitization and convergence of afferent neurons at the dorsal horn
   • C. Direct pressure on a peripheral nerve branch
   • D. Contraction of satellite cells in adjacent muscle fibers

Answer: B. Central sensitization and convergence of afferent neurons at the dorsal horn

Trigger point referral occurs because pain signals from a sensitized area converge with afferents from distant regions at the same dorsal horn level, causing the brain to mislocate the pain source.

Answer: C. Articulation

Bones are joined together by ligaments, which are connective tissue. Enthesis is the connective tissue that resides between a bone and a tendon or between a ligament and a bone. Bursas are the fluid-filled sacs between bones that are present at joints to reduce friction.

Answer: C. Immediately stop the session and refer the client for emergency medical evaluation

The signs described — unilateral swelling, warmth, redness, and pain with dorsiflexion (Homan's sign) — are classic indicators of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Massaging over a suspected DVT can dislodge the clot, causing a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism. The session must stop and the client must seek immediate medical care.

Answer: B. To reduce hypertonicity in the tensor fasciae latae and gluteus maximus

The client's symptoms are classic for Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome. The IT band is a thick band of fascia that runs along the outside of the thigh, from the hip to the knee. It can become inflamed due to friction with the lateral femoral epicondyle. The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) and gluteus maximus muscles insert into the IT band, and tightness in these muscles can increase tension and friction. Therefore, a primary treatment goal would be to reduce this tension.

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