Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.

$350 -- $1200 5–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Nashville / Davidson County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Metro Nashville Business License

All businesses operating in Nashville-Davidson County must obtain a Metro Business License through the Metro Codes Department. For massage establishments, this includes proof of state licensing for all therapists. The metro combined city-county government issues one license covering both jurisdictions.

$15–$100/year (based on gross receipts)1–2 weeks
Official government source
2

Nashville Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy is required for commercial locations. Ensure the space is zoned for personal service business use (CS or CA zoning typically). Contact Metro Codes and Building Safety.

$100–$3002–4 weeks
Official government source

Tennessee State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Tennessee Massage License (TDCI)

Tennessee requires massage therapists to be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI), specifically the Board of Massage Licensure. Requirements include 500 hours of approved education, passing the MBLEx exam, and a background check. Licenses are renewable every two years.

$100 (application fee) + $100–$200 (MBLEx exam fee)4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

Tennessee Business Tax Registration

Businesses in Tennessee with gross receipts over $3,000/year must pay state and local business taxes. Register with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Massage services are generally taxable in Tennessee.

Free to register; tax based on gross receiptsImmediate (online)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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