In the state of Texas there is no requirement for tattooists to be licensed; only tattoo studios and other facilities need to obtain proper licensing.
This does not mean that just anyone can pick up a tattoo gun and start inking clients, you will need to have a proof of history that shows training or applicable work experience, and a current Bloodborne Pathogen training for tattoo artists certificate.
Opening a Tattoo Studio in Texas
There are a few steps to follow if you wish to open a licenses tattoo establishment in Texas:
- Fill out a Texas Tattoo License Application and return it to the Texas Department of State Health Services, or fill out the online application available on the State Health Services web portal.
- Pay the fee of $927 via check or money order made payable to Texas Department of State Health Services, Food & Drug Licensing.
- Submit a written document from your local city or county Health Department, Zoning Section. This document should list your studio address and that you are allowed to perform tattoos at your location according to local safety and health codes. (Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 146, Sec 146.003).
Opening a Body Piercing Studio in Texas
In the event that you want to offer both tattoo and body piercing services, you must apply for separate tattoo parlor and body piercing studio licenses. You will however, pay a smaller application fee for the body piercing application if you already have a tattoo studio license number.
To get a body piercing studio license, you must do the following:
Fill out a body piercing studio application
Pay the license fee of $412 (new application) or $309 (with current license for tattooing).
Submit a written document from your local city or county Health Department, Zoning Section. This should list your studio address and that you are allowed to perform piercing at your location according to the “Tattoo and Certain Body Piercing Studio Act.” (Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 146, Sec 146.003).
Texas Temporary Tattooing Location License
Texas tattoo laws have a provision to apply for a special event license. This allows a license holder to conduct business in a temporary location for a maximum of seven days.
The temporary location license fee is $464. The event location will need to be compliant to code with local ordinances and allow for routine sterilization practices.
County Specific Requirements
If your county has additional regulations for tattoo artists, you can find them here.
Texas Tattooing Essential Facts
It is illegal to tattoo a minor unless a parent or guardian determines it would be in the best interest of the minor to cover an existing tattoo.
For the visiting tattoo artist, you will need to fill out this application.
If you need a temporary permit before taking the exam, you can fill out the application form.
Not from the Lone Start state?
If you are from a different American State and need to understand how to apply for your tattoo license, check our detailed guide on how to get tattoo license.
