Oriental Medicine Practitioners

Certification or Licensing

The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) promotes nationally recognized standards for acupuncture and Oriental medicine. In order to qualify to take the NCCAOM exam, students must complete a three- or four-year accredited master's level or candidate program. Four designations are available: diplomate in oriental medicine, diplomate in acupuncture, diplomate in Chinese herbology, and diplomate in Asian bodywork therapy.

Licensing requirements vary widely from state to state, and they are changing rapidly. Most states use the NCCAOM certification as their standard for licensure. Other states seek certification and additional educational requirements. Check with the licensing board of the state in which you intend to practice.

Individual states regulate Oriental bodywork practitioners as they do general massage therapists. As of 2020, 46 states and the District of Columbia regulated the practice of acupuncture and Oriental medicine, requiring licensure, certification, or registration. They generally require completion of a 500-hour program and the National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. The American Massage Therapy Association can give you information regarding the laws of your state. If your state does not have licensing requirements, check with your county or municipality for regulations governing massage therapy.

Other Requirements

Some positions may require candidates to pass a background check.