What License Do You Need To Open a Medical Spa? A 50-State List

What exactly is a medical spa?

A medical spa, or “medspa” for short, functions as a licensed healthcare facility that provides non-surgical aesthetic treatments. These procedures go beyond traditional spa services, using medical-grade equipment and techniques to address concerns like wrinkles, hair removal, and skincare.

In the sections below, we have categorized what license you need to open a medical spa according to each state.

What professions can open a medical spa in the U.S.?

The ability to open a medical spa in the US depends almost entirely on your state's regulations. Broadly speaking, several licensed medical professionals can lead a medical spa, including:

●  Physicians (MDs or DOs): This is the most common route, as they have the most extensive training and can oversee all aspects of the business.

●  Nurse Practitioners (NPs): In some states, NPs with a focus on aesthetics can own and operate a medical spa, often in collaboration with a physician.

●  Physician Assistants (PAs): Similar to NPs, PAs with proper training may be eligible for medical spa ownership in certain states, frequently requiring physician supervision.

●  Registered Nurses (RNs): Registered Nurses cannot open medical spas independently due to licensure restrictions. However, they can own an already established medical spa in states that allow non-physicians to own a medical practice once they’ve obtained the required certifications and experience; they can hire a licensed physician as a Supervising Physician, or they can partner with a Physician through a Management Services Organization relationship (more on this below).

In states that do not adhere to the “corporate practice of medicine,” corporations or individuals who do not have a medical license can own a medical spa. However, they will need to hire medical professionals to oversee and perform the treatments. 

Regardless of which state you’re in, you’ll likely need a Supervising/Collaborating Physician as a part of your medical spa business. They act as a medical thought leader, partner, setting treatment plans, selecting services, signing off on good faith exams, guiding treatment protocols, staff training, and overseeing all patient care.

While some states require the physician to be a significant owner of the practice, others may allow for more flexible ownership structures.

In some states, Nurse Practitioners can practice independently. In these states, those Nurse Practitioners can act as the supervising clinician for individual clinics in lieu of a physician depending on their delegation capabilities.

What is an MSO (Medical Services Organization)?

Some states have laws called "corporate practice of medicine" (CPOM) that restrict ownership of medical businesses, including medical spa businesses.

These laws typically require ownership of a medical spa to be held by a licensed physician. This can be a challenge for entrepreneurs who aren't medical professionals but want to be involved in the medical spa industry.

This is where a Management Services Organization, or MSO, is helpful. An MSO is a separate business entity that specializes in the administrative, non-medical, day-to-day operations of a medical spa. An MSO sets up a contract between the medical spa with qualified physicians who provide medical oversight and ensure compliance with CPOM rules and the manager who performs administrative duties.

These regulations ensure doctors, not business entities, make medical decisions. This team approach allows non-physician non-clinical involvement in medical spas while prioritizing patient safety through physician supervision.

By partnering with an MSO, an entrepreneur can still own and operate a medical spa in a CPOM state.

What healthcare license do you need to open a medical spa in each state?

The laws and regulations governing medical spa ownership and operation vary significantly based on where you plan on starting your medical spa. 

Note: This information is intended to provide a general overview of potential licenses. It does not constitute legal advice. The information may change based on state updates since the writing of this article.

Alabama

Alabama is not a corporate practice of medicine state; therefore, ownership of a medspa is not limited only to state-licensed physicians (MDs or DOs).

●  What licenses are required:

• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.
• Practitioners must be licensed physicians or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with prescriptive authority.

●  What else to keep in mind: Alabama considers all neurotoxin treatments, dermal fillers, and laser procedures as medical treatments. This means that only physicians can perform the treatment or at least be present to supervise the procedure. Physicians must be onsite for 10% of a nurse practitioner’s hours worked and any time a registered nurse is performing Laser Hair Removal.

Alaska

Alaska allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director.

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• Medical spas in Alaska must be licensed by the state medical board.
• Alaska is a Nurse-independent practice state.

●  What else to keep in mind: Alaska has advertising regulations for medical spa services. There may be additional requirements depending on the specific procedures offered.

Arizona

Medical spas in Arizona are limited to providing non-surgical cosmetic procedures that are within the scope of practice of licensed RNs or APRNs, PAs with prescriptive authority.

Non-physicians are allowed to own a medical spa, but all procedures require a licensed physician (MD/DO) or independent nurse practitioner for supervision.

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• Medical spas have a medical director who is a licensed physician or independent nurse practitioner.

●  What else to keep in mind: The level of supervision required from the medical director varies depending on the specific procedures offered by the medical spa.

Level II procedures (e.g., laser hair removal ) require an order from the medical director to be initiated. Level III procedures (e.g., Botox injections, dermal fillers) require more extensive supervision from the medical director.

If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in medical spa operations, we can help you with navigating the waters. Talk to Moxie.

Arkansas

In Arkansas, only licensed physicians (MDs or DOs) can own and operate a medical spa business.

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must be supervised by licensed physicians (MDs or DOs).
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Arkansas has strict regulations regarding the supervision of medical procedures by the medical director.

California

In California, medical spa ownership is restricted to licensed physicians (MDs) with some minority interest by certain healthcare providers.

●  What’s required:

• ‍For ownership: Only licensed physicians (MDs) can own a medical spa due to the "corporate practice of medicine” doctrine.
• All practitioners must be licensed physicians, NPs, PAs or registered nurses (RNs) under the supervision of a licensed physician.‍
• Supervising Physician: A licensed physician must be designated as the supervising physician.
• Registration with the state medical board is mandatory. 

●  What else to keep in mind: California has strict regulations for medical spa operations. Be prepared for a more complex licensing and compliance process.

While non-physicians cannot own a majority stake, there are two options for collaboration:

●  Minority ownership (49%) with a physician holding the majority stake: This gives the physician more control over business and medical decisions. (Limited to licensed medical professionals)

●  Through a Management Services Organization (MSO): Partnering with an MSO offers a path to medical spa management for non-physicians.

Colorado

Colorado allows for ownership by physicians (MDs) and physician assistants (PAs) — but with a twist. PAs can only own a medical spa if they are supervised by a medical director who is a licensed physician, and they can own up to 49%. Nurse practitioners may independently own a medspa and provide cosmetic treatments within their scope of practice once they have obtained full practice authority. 

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must be licensed physicians (MDs) or PAs supervised by a physician.
• The medical spa must have a designated medical director who is a licensed physician.

Partnering with a Medical Services Organization (MSO): In Colorado, since regulations restrict non-physician ownership of medical practices, an MSO can be a great way to assist the physician in running the medical spa. 

An MSO is an organization that takes over the business aspects like marketing, staffing, and daily operations. An MSO typically works with a physician's professional corporation, so they can ensure that a licensed physician oversees all medical procedures. 

Call us, and we can help you navigate the complexities of set up. Book a call with Moxie.

Connecticut

Similar to California, the state of Connecticut restricts medical spa ownership to licensed physicians (MDs).

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must be licensed physicians (MDs).
• The medical spa must have a designated medical director who is a licensed physician or is an independent nurse practitioner.

●  What else to keep in mind: The physician you designate as your medical director may need to have additional training or experience specific to the procedures your medical spa offers.

Partnering with a Medical Services Organization (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative structure for medical spas in Connecticut.

By partnering with an MSO, non-physicians can be involved in assisting physicians in operating a medical spa, focusing on business operations while a licensed physician oversees medical services. This can be particularly helpful for those without a healthcare background who are interested in the business side of the medical spa industry.

Want to skip the lengthy set up process? Book a call with Moxie.

Delaware

(The latest details on Delaware laws are coming soon. Please reach out to our team for more info.)

Florida

Florida offers more flexibility in ownership structures. Physicians (MDs) are the most common owners, but technically, anyone can own and run a medspa, provided that a licensed physician handles oversight of all medical procedures.

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must be licensed physicians (MDs) or APRNs, PAs.
• The medical spa must have a designated medical director who is a licensed physician. The Medical Director must be board certified in plastics or dermatology and can only oversee one medical spa if they have a private practice.
• There are also radius restrictions for the medical director.

Want to skip the lengthy set up hassle? Book a call with Moxie.

Georgia

In Georgia, anyone can own or operate a medspa business, provided a qualified physician or a PA, NP, or RN handles medical treatments such as injection administration. 

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health. If performing laser hair removal, the medspa will need to complete an application for registration of the Laser Facility.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must be qualified professionals (an MD, PA, NP, or RN)
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required to be on staff.

Avoid lengthy setup hassles — let Moxie handle it.

Hawaii

In Hawaii, ownership of medical spa businesses is restricted to licensed physicians (MDs or DOs). Nurse practitioners cannot own medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH).
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must hold the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Hawaii has advertising regulations for medical spa services.

Idaho

In 2016, the Idaho Board of Medicine rescinded the corporate practice of medicine in the state, allowing non-physicians to own medical spas. 

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Idaho has detailed regulations regarding the qualifications and experience of the medical director.

Illinois

Illinois allows only physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners with specific authorization can own and operate certain procedures without the supervision of a physician.

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician or APRN-FPA, is required.

Partnering with a Medical Services Organization (MSO): In Illinois, since regulations restrict non-physician ownership of medical practices, an MSO can be a viable approach.

An MSO acts as a business backbone — they can handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and other administrative duties. By partnering with an MSO, non-medical professionals can run the business aspects of the spa, such as marketing, staffing, and daily operations.

An MSO typically works with a physician's professional corporation, ensuring a licensed physician carries out the tasks required by law such as performing procedures, providing training, or oversight. If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, we can help you with launch and staffing.

Indiana

Indiana allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. 

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the department of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Indiana requires the medical director to be actively involved in the medical spa's operations and to develop and implement a written practice plan.

Want to skip the lengthy setup hassles and have us assist? Moxie can help.

Iowa

Iowa allows only physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can also own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician or nurse practitioner, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Iowa has advertising regulations for medical spa services, and there may be additional requirements depending on the specific procedures offered.

Kansas

Kansas allows only physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians. 

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of healing arts.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Kansas has specific requirements for the qualifications and experience of the medical director.

Kentucky

Kentucky allows MDs or DOs to own and operate medical spa businesses. Independent Nurse practitioners can own and perform certain procedures without the supervision of a physician.

●  What licenses are required:

• ‍‍The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Kentucky requires the medical director to be actively involved in the medical spa's operations and to develop and implement written policies and procedures.

Louisiana

Louisiana imposes some restrictions, corporate practice of medicine is prohibited, but corporations and non-licensed individuals may own a medspa if the integrity of the patient-physician relationship is preserved.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa may need a license from the Louisiana State Board of Cosmetology.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must be licensed physicians (MDs or DOs), advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with prescriptive authority, or physician assistants (PAs).
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

Maine

Maine allows for more flexibility in medical spa ownership. While physicians (MDs or DOs) are the preferred option, training anyone can own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession (NPs require specific authorization for some procedures).
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

Maryland

Maryland allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners (NPs) can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Maryland has strict regulations regarding the supervision of medical procedures by the medical director. The medical director must be actively involved in the medical spa's operations and development of protocols.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts allows only certain licensed medical professionals to own and operate medical spa businesses. While physicians (MDs or DOs) are the preferred option, nurse practitioners with a relevant specialty, additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH).
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician or independent nurse practitioner, is required.

Partnering with a Medical Services Organization (MSO): In Massachusetts, since regulations restrict non-physician ownership of medical practices, an MSO can be an alternative approach.

An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, non-medical operations, and provide administrative oversight. An MSO typically works with a physician's professional corporation, ensuring a licensed physician carries out the tasks required by law such as performing procedures, providing training, or oversight.

For help in learning what’s involved in opening a medical spa in Massachusetts, book a call with Moxie. Let our experts navigate the waters for a smooth launch.

Michigan

Michigan allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners require a collaborative practice agreement (CPA) with a physician. 

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Michigan requires the medical director to be actively involved in the medical spa's operations and to develop and implement written policies and procedures.

Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight.

By partnering with an MSO, non-physicians can be involved in helping manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa, focusing on business operations while licensed physicians oversee delivery of the medical services. This can be helpful for those without a healthcare background who are interested in helping run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa.

If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today!

Minnesota

Massachusetts allows only certain licensed medical professionals to own and operate medical spa businesses. While physicians (MDs or DOs) are the preferred option, nurse practitioners with a relevant specialty, additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, or independent nurse practitioner, is required in some cases (depends on specific procedures offered).

Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight.

By partnering with an MSO, non-physicians can be involved in helping manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa, focusing on business operations while licensed physicians oversee delivery of the medical services. This can be helpful for those without a healthcare background who are interested in helping run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa.

If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today!

Mississippi

Mississippi allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of medicine.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Mississippi has strict regulations regarding the qualifications and experience required for the medical director.

Missouri

Missouri allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of medicine.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

Montana

Montana allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. While physicians (MDs or DOs) are the preferred option, nurse practitioners with a relevant specialty, additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state. 

●  What licenses are required: 

• The medical spa needs a license from the Montana Department of Public Health. Licenses are required for lasers and any radiation machines.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

Nebraska

Nebraska allows for some flexibility in medical spa ownership. Both physicians (MDs or DOs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) with a master's degree in a relevant specialty and additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of medicine.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician or independent nurse practitioner, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: The need for a medical director and their level of involvement can vary based on the specific procedures offered. It's important to consult with DHHS to determine the specific requirements for your medical spa.

Nevada

Nevada has recently undergone some changes in its regulations for medical spa ownership and operation.  The state introduced a new licensing category for advanced estheticians (AEs) in 2021. This allows AEs, who are not necessarily physicians or nurses, to own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of medicine.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians. While physicians (MDs or DOs) are the preferred option, nurse practitioners with a relevant specialty, additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of medicine.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician or independent nurse practitioner, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: New Hampshire has strict regulations regarding the qualifications and experience required for the medical director. They must be actively involved in the medical spa's operations and oversee the development of written policies and procedures.

New Jersey

New Jersey only allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state provided the entity has a designated physician medical director who practiced in New Jersey and is always on premises.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of medicine.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

New Mexico

While physicians (MDs or DOs) are the preferred option, nurse practitioners with a relevant specialty, additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of medicine.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

New York

New York follows a stricter model, with only physicians (MDs or DOs) authorized to own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the New York Department of Education.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must be licensed physicians (MDs).
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: New York has strict regulations regarding the supervision of medical procedures by the medical director. They must be actively involved in the medical spa's operations and oversee the development of written policies and procedures.

●  Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight.  By partnering with an MSO, non-physicians can be involved in helping manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa, focusing on business operations while licensed physicians oversee delivery of the medical services.

An MSO can be helpful for those without a healthcare background who are interested in helping run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa. If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today! 

North Carolina

North Carolina restricts medical spa ownership to licensed physicians (MDs/DOs). Nurse practitioners can contribute by performing certain procedures, but only under the supervision of a designated medical director or a licensed physician.

●  What licenses are required:

• ‍‍The medical spa needs a license from the North Carolina Medical Board.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: North Carolina has advertising regulations for medical spa services. The qualifications and experience required for the medical director can be quite detailed, and they must be actively involved in the medical spa's operations.

Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight. An MSO lets non-physicians be involved in helping manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa, focusing on business operations while licensed physicians oversee delivery of the medical services.

Those without a healthcare background who are interested in helping run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa should look into the MSO model. If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today!

North Dakota

North Dakota allows for more flexibility in medical spa ownership. Physicians (MDs or DOs) and nurse practitioners with a master's degree in a relevant specialty and additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of medicine.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession (NPs require specific authorization for some procedures).
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required in some cases (depends on specific procedures offered).

Ohio

Ohio restricts medical spa ownership to licensed physicians (MDs/DOs). Nurse practitioners can contribute by performing certain procedures, but only under the supervision of a designated medical director, a licensed physician. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state provided they have a physician medical director.

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

If you’re a non-physician and want to own a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma allows physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state provided they have a physician medical director.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Oklahoma has advertising regulations for medical spa services. There may be additional requirements depending on the specific procedures offered, and the level of involvement required from the medical director can vary.

Oregon

As in many other states, Oregon follows the physician (MD or DO) ownership model for medical spa businesses. While physicians are the preferred option, nurse practitioners with a relevant specialty, additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state provided they have a medical director.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All staff performing medical procedures must hold the appropriate professional licenses.
• A designated medical director, who must be a licensed physician or independent nurse practitioner, is required.

Opening a medical spa in Oregon? Skip the maze. Book a call with Moxie's experts.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania allows only physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners (NPs) can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians.

●  What licenses are required:

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  What else to keep in mind: Pennsylvania has strict regulations regarding the supervision of medical procedures by the medical director.

●  Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight. By partnering with an MSO, non-physicians can be involved in helping manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa, focusing on business operations while a licensed physician oversees delivery of the medical services.

An MSO is recommended for those without a healthcare background who are interested in helping to run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa. If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today!

Rhode Island

Rhode Island allows only physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians.

●  What licenses are required: 

• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight. An MSO allows non-physicians to be involved in helping manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa, focusing on business operations while a licensed physician oversees delivery of the medical services.

Look into an MSO if you don’t have a healthcare background and are interested in helping run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa. If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today!

South Carolina

South Carolina allows only physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight.

An MSO partnership allows non-physicians to be involved in helping manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa, focusing on business operations while a licensed physician oversees delivery of the medical services. This can be helpful for those without a healthcare background who are interested in helping run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa.

If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today! 

South Dakota

South Dakota allows for more flexibility in medical spa ownership. Physicians (MDs or DOs) and nurse practitioners with a relevant specialty and additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician or independent nurse practitioner, is required in some cases (depends on specific procedures offered).

●  What else to keep in mind: South Dakota has advertising regulations for medical spa services, and there may be additional requirements depending on the specific procedures offered.

Tennessee

Tennessee allows only physicians (MDs or DOs) to own and operate medical spa businesses. Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under the supervision of a medical director, but ownership is restricted to physicians. 

●  What licenses are required: 

• The medical spa needs a license from the Tennessee Board of  Medicine.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  Tennessee has advertising regulations for medical spa services. The qualifications and experience required for the medical director can be quite detailed, and they must be actively involved in the medical spa's operations.

●  What else to keep in mind: Tennessee has strict regulations regarding the qualifications and experience required for the medical director. They must be actively involved in the medical spa's operations and oversee the development of written policies and procedures.

Texas

Ownership is exclusively for physicians (MDs or DOs). However, nurse practitioners can be employed by a medical spa and perform certain procedures under the supervision of a designated medical director, who must be a licensed physician.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must hold the appropriate licenses for their profession.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight.

Non-physicians can get involved in helping manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa with an MSO that lets them focus on business operations while a licensed physician oversees delivery of the medical services. This can be helpful for those without a healthcare background who are interested in helping run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa.

If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today!

Utah

Utah allows for more flexibility. Both physicians (MDs or DOs) and nurse practitioners with a relevant specialty and additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state provided they have a medical director.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must have the appropriate licenses for their profession (NPs may require specific authorization for some procedures).
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician or independent nurse practitioner, may be required depending on the specific procedures offered.

Vermont

Vermont allows anyone to own a medspa.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All practitioners performing medical procedures must be licensed physicians (MDs).
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  Additional considerations: Vermont has strict regulations regarding the supervision of medical procedures by the medical director. They must be actively involved in the medical spa's operations and oversee the development of written policies and procedures.

Virginia

Virginia offers more flexibility than some states. Nurse practitioners with a master's degree in a relevant specialty and additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state provided they have a medical director.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of medicine.
• All staff performing medical procedures must hold the appropriate professional licenses.
• A licensed physician must serve as the designated medical director under the collaborative practice agreement.

Opening a medical spa in Virginia? Skip the maze. Book a call with Moxie's experts.

Washington

Washington offers more flexibility than some states. Nurse practitioners with a master's degree in a relevant specialty and additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state provided they have a medical director. 

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All staff performing medical procedures must possess the appropriate professional licenses.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is mandatory. 

Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight. An MSO partnership allows non-physicians to help manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa, focusing on business operations while licensed physicians oversee delivery of the medical services.

Using an MSO can be helpful for those without a healthcare background who are interested in helping run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa. If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today!

West Virginia

In West Virginia, medical spa ownership is limited to MDs and DOs. Nurse practitioners can perform some procedures under a physician's supervision.

●  What licenses are required:

• ‍‍All staff performing medical procedures must hold the appropriate professional licenses.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is required.

●  Additional considerations: West Virginia has advertising regulations for medical spa services.

Need assistance? Book a call with Moxie today.

Wisconsin

Ownership is restricted to physicians (MDs or DOs). Nurse practitioners can perform certain procedures under a medical director's supervision.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All staff performing medical procedures must possess the appropriate professional licenses.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, is mandatory.

Medical Services Organizations (MSO): The MSO model offers an alternative ownership structure for medical spas. An MSO acts as your business backbone — they handle marketing, staffing, daily operations, and provide administrative oversight.

The MSO lets non-physicians be involved in helping manage the non-medical aspects of running a medical spa, focusing on business operations while a licensed physician oversees delivery of the medical services. This can be helpful for those without a healthcare background who are interested in helping run the non-clinical operations of a medical spa.

If you’re a non-physician and want to be involved in a medical spa, Moxie can help. Book a call and get started today!

Wyoming

Wyoming provides more flexibility with medical spa ownership. Both physicians and NPs with a relevant master's degree and additional training can own and operate medical spa businesses. Corporations and individuals without a physician’s license can also own medical spas in the state provided they have a medical director.

●  What licenses are required:

• The medical spa needs a license from the state board of health.
• All staff performing medical procedures must hold the appropriate professional licenses. Nurse practitioners may require specific authorization for some procedures.
• A designated medical director, who is a licensed physician, may be required depending on the specific procedures offered.

Note: Regulations and policies about what license you need to open a medical spa are subject to change, and specifics can vary greatly depending on your experience level, state guidelines, and other factors.

Because of these considerations, it's crucial to conduct your own independent legal research specific to your situation and local laws. This information should not be interpreted as legal advice, and you are strongly encouraged to consult with a qualified attorney knowledgeable about medical spa regulations within your jurisdiction.

Need help starting a successful medical spa? Try Moxie

Moxie empowers hundreds of medical spa owners across the country to grow faster, bring in more profit, and achieve real success.

We help you go from idea to launch and ease the burden of navigating extensive set up, paperwork, and operations so that you can focus on what you do best — providing exceptional care to your clients.

Here's how Moxie can help your medical spa thrive:

●  Faster, more affordable launch: Get up and running 3x faster and at half the cost compared to going at it alone.

●  Marketing done for you: Moxie manages everything from website creation (under your brand) to targeted advertising that drives new clients through your doors.

●  Hands-on, expert coaching: Our dedicated coaches meet with you regularly to support your growth, give you hands-on help, and guide you through the process of growing your medical spa.

●  Software that works for you: SMS marketing and memberships are easier than ever to manage, run, and benefit from — we’ve got you covered.

Book a free strategy session today.