Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in Atlanta, GA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia.

$400 -- $1500 6–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 6 requirements

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

Atlanta / Fulton County Requirements

3 requirements
1

City of Atlanta Business License (Occupation Tax Certificate)

All businesses operating within Atlanta city limits must obtain an Occupation Tax Certificate (business license) from the City of Atlanta Department of Finance. For massage establishments, the application requires proof of state licensure. Renewals are due annually by February 15.

$75–$400/year (based on gross receipts)2–4 weeks
Official government source
2

City of Atlanta Massage Business Permit

Atlanta requires massage establishments to obtain a specific massage business permit under the city's massage ordinance (Chapter 138, Article VI). The permit requires submission of GRMA license copies for all therapists, a premises inspection, and background checks for owners. Establishments must comply with signage, lighting, and operational requirements.

$200–$500/year3–6 weeks
Official government source
3

Fulton County Business Registration

If operating in unincorporated Fulton County, a county business license is required. Businesses within Atlanta city limits pay only city taxes but may need to register with the county for certain purposes.

$50–$150/year1–2 weeks
Official government source

Georgia State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Georgia Massage Therapy License (GRMA)

All massage therapists practicing in Georgia must be licensed by the Georgia Board of Massage Therapy (part of Georgia Secretary of State). Requirements include 500 hours of approved massage education from an accredited school and passing the MBLEx or NCBTMB exam. Licenses must be renewed every two years.

$75 (application fee) + $100–$200 (exam fee)4–8 weeks after completing education and exam
Official government source
2

Georgia Massage Therapy Establishment Permit

Georgia does not have a separate state-level massage establishment license, but all therapists working at the establishment must hold individual GRMA licenses. The establishment must maintain records of all employed therapists and their license numbers.

No separate feeN/A (covered by individual therapist licenses)
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

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Get deadline alerts and compliance monitoring for your massage therapy business in Atlanta, GA. Never miss a renewal or face a surprise inspection.

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