How to Get a Tattoo License in the USA (2026)
Tattoo licensing and certification
How to Get a Tattoo License in the USA (2026)
If you’ve decided to finally take the plunge and become a licensed tattoo artist in 2026, or you are planning to open your own studio it’s time to learn about how to get your tattoo license.
The question probably on your mind is ‘how do I get a tattoo license?’
Nowadays, tattooing has become a multi-million dollar business sector. For artistically inclined individuals, becoming a certified tattoo artist is a fantastic career choice. However, in the United States, tattooing regulations differ depending on your age, education level, certifications, and the state in which you plan to practice. There are several fundamental criteria that can aid you on your way to getting your tattoo license.
Most states in the USA mandate you to obtain a tattoo license before becoming a tattoo artist, while others may require you to maintain a formal business location.
This article will take you through everything you need to know to get a tattoo license in any American state.
How to get a tattoo license: Quick Guide for all US States
In a hurry? here’s the quick how to guide
Time needed: 30 days.
Check General Requirements (most States)
- Government ID proving age over 18
- Online application via State or County portal
- Bloodborne Pathogen Certificate
Research what training and certification your State requires
- High school diploma
- CPR certificate
- First Aid certificate
- Bloodborne Pathogen certificate
- Tattoo specific training
- State tattoo exam
- Proof of apprenticeship
- Portfolio
- Proof of employment in state licensed studio
Review State/County requirements and application process
Each state and some counties have their own rules and requirements for tattoo licensing – scroll to end of the main article for a searchable table of state requirements.
Take any required training courses e.g. BBP / CPR
Take any state mandated training and certifications so you have them ready for when you apply.
Collate required documents
Gather all your documentation and check it off against the state requirements. Make sure you review ALL your documentation before submitting your application. This may include older documents like high school diplomas.
Take state tattoo examination if required
If your state or county requires you to take an examination or test before considering your license application then make an appointment to sit it now.
Pay fee and Submit Application
Fees are usually payable by check or money order but more states now also accept online payments. Submit your application online or mail it in. Your license will likely take two to four weeks to process.
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Common licensing categories
Why Tattoo Licensing Requirements Exist – and What You May Need
As tattooing has become a widely accepted and profitable profession, states and local authorities have introduced licensing requirements to help set standards for training, sanitation, and professional practice. The exact requirements differ by state and, in some areas, by county or city.
CPR Certification
Only required in some states. Training normally covers when and how to provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation in an emergency.
First Aid Certification
Only required in some states. Courses commonly cover practical responses to injuries, including choking, cuts, and fractures.
Bloodborne Pathogens Training
Some licensing authorities specify BBP training or an approved provider. Requirements can differ between state and local health authorities.
Practical or Written Exam
Some states or counties require an examination covering professional knowledge, sanitation, and the rules that regulate tattooing.
Documentation of Apprenticeship
Where required, applicants may need to provide records of an apprenticeship, supervised experience, or equivalent training.
Tattoo Art Portfolio
A portfolio may be useful for an apprenticeship or employment opportunity, whether it is physical, online, or another digital showcase.
Step-by-step guide
Obtain Your Tattoo License Certifications and other Requirements
So now you know what you need and why, the next question you probably have is how the heck do I get all that? Don’t worry – we will now go through step-by-step on how to obtain all those requirements.
CPR & First Aid Certification
Bloodborne Pathogen Training
Build Your Art Portfolio
Secure an Apprenticeship
State Examination
State and local requirements
What Do I Need To Get a Tattoo License In My State?
This is one of the things that gets people very confused because many states and even individual counties in the USA have specific criteria that you need to meet to get a tattoo license.
To make things simple for you we are compiling a dedicated step by step guide for every state. Just click on the STATE LICENSING GUIDE link for your state.
We add more states regularly and plan to have all 50 covered by 2027.
| State Licensing Guide | BBP Requirement | Training Status |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Required | Guide Live |
| Colorado | Required | Guide Live |
| Virginia | Required | Guide Live |
| Ohio | Required | Guide Live |
| Vermont | Required | Guide Live |
| Connecticut | Required | Guide Live |
| Washington | Required | Guide Live |
| Illinois | Recommended | Guide Live |
| Texas | Required | Guide Live |
| Nevada (SNHD) | Required | Guide Live |
| Hawaii | Required | Guide Live |
| Oregon | Required | Guide Live |
| North Carolina | Required | Guide Live |
| Alabama Coming Soon | Required | Researching |
| Florida Coming Soon | State Approved | In Progress |
| New York Coming Soon | Required | In Progress |
| California Coming Soon | LEA Approved | Researching |
Independent contractors and studio staff
Freelance Tattoo Artists and Bloodborne Pathogens Requirements
Calling an artist a “freelancer” or “independent contractor” does not, by itself, determine whether federal OSHA requirements apply. OSHA considers the real working arrangement, including the studio’s control over the work, tools, schedule, and relationship with the artist.
“It covers employees, not individuals who are working only as independent contractors.”
OSHA interpretation on tattoo artists and body piercers
If your arrangement is unclear, check the relevant state or local body-art authority and obtain appropriate employment or legal advice. This guide cannot determine worker classification for an individual studio.
Moving between states
The “Tattoo License Reciprocity” 2026 Guide
If you already have a tattoo license and are moving to another state, your license will not automatically transfer.
For most states that require OSHA bloodborne pathogens certification and a photo ID, you will need to apply for a new license in that state.
If you already have a license and are moving to another state that mandates training hours, then you can provide proof of your training hours in a tattoo apprenticeship or the equivalent and attempt to get your hours transferred.
What if I am traveling to another State as a guest Tattoo Artist?
For tattoo artists who will be traveling to a different state temporarily, for example as a guest artist or limited time resident, you may need to apply for a temporary license. As above, it is crucial to call each state’s department of health before you travel if you plan to practice tattooing or body art.
The “Standard” States
Texas, Colorado, and Georgia are artist-friendly hubs that generally accept any reputable, OSHA-compliant BBP certificate.
The “Guest Spot” Permits
Oregon and Virginia offer temporary licenses (14–30 days) if you can prove you hold an active license in another state.
The “Strict” Hubs
Florida, California, and NYC often require state-specific BBP courses or local health department exams regardless of your history.
The “Guest Artist” 2026 Compliance Checklist
A high-quality digital scan of your current professional tattoo or body art license. Ensure the expiration date is clearly visible.
Must be dated within the last 12 months. While some states allow older certs, 12 months is the “Universal Standard” for guest spots.
Verify if your destination (like Florida or NYC) accepts your current provider or requires you to take their specific local exam first.
Passport or State ID. The name MUST exactly match the name on your BBP certificate and home state license.
Submit your application well before you travel. Most states will not issue “instant” guest permits at the shop door.
Tattoo Licensing FAQ
The answer to this will depend on which state or even county you are trying to get licensed in. In general you will need to meet basic requirements such as age and appropriate apprenticeship or professional training. Most states require at minimum OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030 compliant bloodborne pathogens certification. Many states also required a valid CPR and/or First Aid certificate. Once you check these boxes the majority of states now use online applications systems.
In most cases the answer is yes. Online BBP training is now the standard way to get certified for a tattoo license application. The important thing is to choose and OSHA compliant course, and check state and county specific requirements. Certain states, Florida and California for example, are extremely proscriptive in their training requirements and require you to take a course from an approved local provider.
Most states charge an application fee. This does vary but in general you will be looking at between $100 and $200 payment to process your application.
Yes, most states require training that specifically follows the OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030 standard to ensure you understand how to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
While apprenticeship or tattoo specific training hours vary by state, the required Bloodborne Pathogen certification can typically be completed online in about 2 to 4 hours.
Licensing is state-specific. While your BBP certificate is often accepted nationwide, usually you must apply for a new license through the local Department of Health in your new state. There are certain exceptions, see the ‘reciprocity’ section of this page for further information.
Most states require applicants to be at least 18 years old. While a diploma is not always a federal requirement, individual state boards often require proof of secondary education.
Most state licenses and BBP certifications must be renewed annually to stay compliant with the latest health and safety protocols.
An Artist License is for the individual practitioner, while a Studio License (or Body Art Establishment permit) is required for the physical location where the tattooing takes place.
How to get a Tattoo License: Summary
Tattoo artists, or in some cases the tattoo business itself, are now required to get a tattoo license.
In America, most states need you to go through some sort of process to get a tattoo license.
States usually require tattoo artists to be certified in bloodborne pathogens as part of obtaining a license.
Although all states do not mandate licensure or qualifications, it’s a good idea idea to look into them. With a tattoo license comes a certain measure of trustworthiness. This could show a potential employer or client that you have mastered the art of tattooing, and that you take safety seriously.
