Massage | Alabama | Licensing updates
Alabama Massage Regulation Moves to Public Health on October 1
Alabama moved massage regulation to ADPH on October 1, 2026. Therapists, applicants, schools, and establishments should use its current licensing guidance.
- Use ADPH’s massage licensing page and follow the instructions for your credential.
- Access the Gateway through the official ADPH link; retain filing receipts and license records.
- Schools and establishments should update regulator contacts and verify current forms before filing.
Published: 2026-10-12 · Reviewed: 2026-10-12
Official context
The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) confirms that it became the massage regulatory agency on October 1, 2026. Its announcement page was updated September 18. The transfer replaces the former Board-based administrative arrangement; the enrolled SB136 text describes the renamed Massage Therapy Advisory Council and transfer of regulatory responsibilities.
What this means
Therapists, applicants, instructors, schools, and establishment owners should use ADPH’s massage pages for licensing, education, fingerprints, legal information, and contacts. ADPH links previous users to the existing Gateway. An agency transfer does not itself extend a renewal deadline or authorize unlicensed practice. Verify the instructions for your exact credential rather than assuming old forms and contact details remain current.
Official sources
- https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/massagetherapy/
- https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/massagetherapy/licensing.html
- https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/files/pdf/SearchableInstruments/2026RS/SB136-enr.pdf
Licensing & Industry Updates is an educational summary of official public communications. It is not legal advice, and filing decisions should be checked against the current board page or rule text.