FSMTB MBLEx Exam Overview:
| Certification Vendor: | FSMTB (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards) |
| Exam Name: | Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination |
| Exam Number: | MBLEx |
| Exam Format: | Computer Adaptive Test (CAT), Multiple-choice |
| Passing Score: | 630 (scaled 300–900, result reported as Pass/Fail) |
| Exam Price: | $265 USD |
| Exam Duration: | 110 (total appointment 120) |
| Available Languages: | English, Spanish |
| Real Exam Qty: | 100 scored multiple-choice |
| Certificate Validity Period: | No expiration (valid for licensure eligibility) |
| Recommended Training: | FSMTB Exam Preparation Resources FSMTB MBLEx Candidate Handbook |
| Exam Registration: | FSMTB Official Application Pearson VUE Scheduling |
| Sample Questions: | FSMTB MBLEx Sample Questions |
| Exam Way: | In-person computer-based testing at Pearson VUE authorized centers only |
| Pre Condition: | Graduation or completion of education from an approved/state-recognized massage therapy program; education verification required |
| Official Syllabus URL: | https://fsmtb.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/MBLEx-Content-Outline.pdf |
FSMTB MBLEx Exam Syllabus Topics:
| Section | Weight | Objectives |
|---|---|---|
| Topic 1: Kinesiology | 12% | - Proprioceptors and neuromuscular function - Joint structure, range of motion and movement analysis - Muscle components, contractions, origins/insertions/actions |
| Topic 2: Pathology, Contraindications, Areas of Caution, Special Populations | 14% | - High-risk areas and precautions - Common pathologies and disease processes - Absolute and relative contraindications - Special populations and medication effects |
| Topic 3: Guidelines for Professional Practice | 15% | - Business practices and risk management - Hygiene, sanitation and safety protocols - Draping, communication and session management |
| Topic 4: Ethics, Boundaries, Laws, Regulations | 16% | - Professional boundaries and dual relationships - Confidentiality, consent and HIPAA compliance - Scope of practice and state regulations |
| Topic 5: Client Assessment, Reassessment & Treatment Planning | 17% | - Postural, range of motion and palpation assessment - Goal setting, treatment planning and documentation - Client intake and health history review |
| Topic 6: Anatomy & Physiology | 11% | - Body systems structure and function - Energetic anatomy concepts - Tissue types, injury and repair |
| Topic 7: Benefits and Physiological Effects of Soft Tissue Manipulation | 15% | - Physiological and psychological effects - Effects across client populations - Therapeutic techniques and modalities |
FSMTB Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination Sample Questions:
1. A 27 year old client presents with pins and needles type sensation around her elbow and down towards the back of her hand. Her profession is as a social worker and she is often faced with troubling scenarios. She has limited neck rotation range of motion and is taking quick, shallow breaths. Postural assessment does not show any obvious distortions. Which nerve is responsible for the sensation in the client's elbow and down towards the back of the hand?
A) Sciatic
B) Radial
C) Median
D) Uinar
2. Neutrophils, monocytes and macrophages are all under the classification of ________________.
A) lymphocytes
B) neurotransmitters
C) proteins
D) phagocytes
3. Which of the following muscle groupings are considered phasic muscles?
A) Temporalis masseter
B) Quadratus lumborum, cervical erector spinae
C) Gastrocnemius, soleus
D) Triceps brachii, deltoid
4. Extensor pollicis longus attaches to which of the following digits?
A) Ring
B) Thumb
C) Pinky
D) Index
5. The brachial artery is a branch from which larger artery?
A) Femoral
B) Carotid
C) Axillary
D) Descending aorta
Solutions:
| Question # 1 Answer: B | Question # 2 Answer: D | Question # 3 Answer: D | Question # 4 Answer: B | Question # 5 Answer: C |

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