Tattoo Laws Across the US
A State-By-State Definitive Guide to Tattoo Laws
Given that Ink Different Tattoo Apprenticeship has locations in six states and continues to grow, we thought it might be helpful to share insights on becoming a tattoo artist and tattoo shop owner in not only the states where we are but all 50 states.
Every state is different. Sometimes you need to look at the rules and regulations of the city you are interested in as well, yet regardless, feel free to jump down to your State of interest. If you're an aspiring tattoo artist looking for a tattoo apprenticeship with a guaranteed job offer once you're done, head over to our home page, or go straight to APPLY HERE.
What States Can You Tattoo Without a License? Understanding Exceptions
When researching what states can you tattoo without a license, you'll find that most states in the U.S. require licensure to protect public health and safety. However, exceptions do exist. States like Nevada and Wyoming have less stringent statewide requirements. In Nevada, for instance, the state does not mandate a tattoo license, but local jurisdictions often impose regulations. Similarly, Wyoming's regulations primarily focus on age restrictions and parental consent rather than statewide licensing requirements for tattoo artists. Always check your local city or county regulations to ensure compliance.
Before starting your tattooing journey, make sure to familiarize yourself with the Statewide Tattoo Laws and Regulations Across the USA. Understanding these regulations is crucial to ensure compliance and success in your tattoo career.
Exploring Local Regulations: What States Can You Tattoo Without a License?
While wondering what states can you tattoo without a license, it's crucial to consider local laws even in states with relaxed statewide regulations. For example, in Nevada, tattooing laws vary significantly from one city to another. Las Vegas has stringent health and safety requirements despite the lack of a statewide licensing mandate. These localized rules aim to maintain industry standards and protect clients, demonstrating that even in states without statewide licensure, professionalism and compliance are essential.
Why Training Still Matters in States Without Licensing
Even in states where licensing is not mandated, answering what states can you tattoo without a license doesn't negate the importance of proper training. Whether or not you're required to hold a license, completing a professional apprenticeship or training program ensures you meet health and safety standards and develop the artistic skills needed for success. Clients prioritize their safety and the quality of the tattoos they receive, so investing in training and adhering to local regulations can set you apart in competitive markets, regardless of licensing laws.
Understanding Age Restrictions Across the U.S.
One of the most common questions aspiring tattoo clients and artists ask is, "Is it illegal to get a tattoo under 18?" The answer varies depending on state laws. While the minimum age for tattoos is generally set at 18 across the United States, many states allow exceptions for minors with parental consent. However, the level of enforcement and additional regulations can differ significantly, making it essential to understand the specific laws in your state.
Consequences for Tattooing Minors Illegally
So, is it illegal to get a tattoo under 18? In states where exceptions aren’t allowed, tattooing a minor without proper authorization can result in severe consequences for both the artist and the studio. Penalties might include hefty fines, suspension of licensure, and even misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the jurisdiction. These strict regulations are designed to ensure safety, professionalism, and adherence to health standards within the tattoo industry.
How Parental Consent Influences Tattoo Laws
If you're wondering, "Is it illegal to get a tattoo under 18 with parental consent?" the answer is often yes, but with restrictions. States like Florida and Texas allow minors to get tattoos only under specific circumstances, such as covering offensive or gang-related tattoos, with written and notarized parental consent. These stipulations aim to safeguard minors while providing some flexibility for unique situations. Always consult your state’s health department or legal guidelines to ensure compliance.
How is Tattooing Regulated in Alabama?
Alabama Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Alabama laws regulate the trade of tattooing, branding, and body piercing. The law prohibits any person or organization from performing a tattoo, brand or body piercing on a minor without obtaining prior written consent from the minor’s informed parent or legal guardian.
Requirements for the operation of tattoo facility :
A person who owns or operates a licensed tattoo facility shall do each of the following:
1
Display the license in a conspicuous place within the customer service area of the tattoo facility.
2
Ensure that an individual engaged in tattooing in the tattoo facility wears disposable gloves approved by the department when tattooing, branding, or body piercing, or when cleaning instruments used in tattooing, branding, or body piercing.
3
Maintain a permanent record of each individual who has been tattooed, branded, or who has had body piercing performed at a tattoo facility, and make the records available for inspection by the department or local county health department. The record shall include, at a minimum, the individual's name, address, age, and signature, the date, the design, and location of the tattooing, branding, or body piercing, and the name of the individual performing the tattooing, branding, or body piercing.
4
Provide each customer with a written information sheet approved by the department that provides instructions on tattoo site, branding site, and body piercing site care, which shall include a recommendation that a person seek medical attention if the tattoo site, branding site, or body piercing site becomes infected or painful, or if the person develops a fever soon after being tattooed, being branded, or having body piercing performed.
5
Within 24 hours of becoming aware that an individual tattooed, branded, or body pierced at the tattoo facility is infected with a communicable disease, notify the department or a local county health department.
(Act 2000-321, p. 512, §6.)
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Alabama, please visit the website of Alabama Department of Public Health.
How Much Does it Cost to Become A Tattoo Artist?
How is Tattooing Regulated in Arizona?
Arizona Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Arizona’s law on Tattooing and Body Piercing makes it unlawful to either tattoo or pierce anyone who is under the age of 18 without the physical presence of that person’s parent or legal guardian.
ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Forty-ninth Legislature, First Regular Session
FACT SHEET FOR S.B. 1232
Body Art Establishments; Licensure
Purpose
Institutes licensure requirements, regulations, and standards for body art establishments. Requires body art establishments to obtain a license by January 1, 2011.
Background
In 1996, the Legislature enacted legislation making it unlawful to tattoo a person under 18 years of age without the presence of that person’s parent or legal guardian. The legislation specified that a person who commits a violation is guilty of a class 6 felony (Laws 1996, Chapter 222).
The law expanded in 1999 to also prohibit the practice of branding, scarifying, implanting, mutilating or piercing a person under the age of 18 without the physical presence of the person’s parent or legal guardian. However, the prohibition does not apply to ear-piercing if the person under 18 has written or verbal permission from a parent or legal guardian. The prohibition also does not apply to procedures prescribed by a licensed health care provider (Laws 1999, Chapter 323).
Current statute further regulates the practice of tattooing and other forms of body modification by prohibiting certain acts in the Arizona Criminal Code (Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 13).
Specifically, it is unlawful for a person to do any of the following:
- Use a needle, or any substance that leaves color under the skin, more than once.
- Use a needle that is not properly sterilized.
- Engage in the business of tattooing, branding, scarifying, implanting, mutilating or body piercing out of a home or an impermanent structure, such as a tent or trailer.
- If the person is not a licensed health professional, it is unlawful to administer anesthesia during the course of any procedure that involves branding, scarifying, tattooing, implanting, mutilating or piercing the body of another person.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Arizona, please visit the website of Arizona Department of Health Services.
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Arkansas?
Arkansas Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
According to Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Body Art Establishments included in Arkansas State law Ark. Stat. Ann. §§ 20-27-1501 et seq. on Body Piercing, Branding, and Tattooing, all tattoo artists and permanent cosmetic professionals are required to be certified.
Furthermore, the law establishes body piercing as a form of body art and requires body piercing and tattoo artists, as well as permanent cosmetic shops to pay an annual license fee.
Moreover, Ark. Stat. Ann. § 5-27-228 on Tattooing and Body Piercing makes it illegal for anyone to perform body art, such as a tattoo, piercing or branding, on a minor unless a written consent is given by the minor’s parent, guardian or a custodian and that person is present during the procedure.
Act 596 of 2013 requires a $150 annual shop fee and a $100 annual artist fee which expires on December 31st of each year along with a current yearly bloodborne pathogen certificate and a renewal application. It also requires a $50 convention or guest artist fee which expires 14 days after issuance. Act 266 of 2003
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Arkansas, please visit the website of Environmental Health Arkansas Department of Health.
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Alaska?
Alaska Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Part of Alaska legislation – Alaska Stat. §08.13, specifically 12 AAC 09 regulates the practice of barbering, hairdressing, esthetics, tattoo, and permanent cosmetic coloring, as well as body piercing. Alaska Stat. §08.01 – 08.03 and regulations 12 AAC 02 apply to all professions regulated by the division.
Alaska Stat. §08.13.217 on tattooing prohibits the performance of tattooing and permanent cosmetic coloring on a minor.
The laws on body piercing make it illegal for anyone to perform body piercing on a minor without prior written consent from the minor’s parent or a legal guardian, as well as that person’s presence during the body piercing procedure.
Reopen Alaska Responsibly Guidance
State of Alaska provided information on best practices and access to additional resources
Best Practices for Body Art Shops (NEHA)
Body Art Education Alliance (BAEA) developed resources for the support of safe operations around Covid-19 / coronavirus
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Alaska, please visit the website of Alaska Department of Health and Social Services.
How is Tattooing Regulated in California?
California Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
California Health & Safety Code § 119300 to 119328 as well as Cal. Penal Code 653 establish that:
Body Art: Standards for sterilization, sanitation, and safety for the tattooing, body piercing, and permanent cosmetics professionals are established by the California Conference of Local Health Officers.
Tattooing: Tattooing or even offering to tattoo a minor under the age of 18 is a misdemeanor.
Body Piercing: Piercing or even an offer to perform piercing on a minor under the age of 18 (with the exclusion of emancipated minors) is illegal unless performed in the presence of a parent or guardian or a notarized written permission is given.by the minor’s parent or guardian. Does not apply to ear piercing.
Tattoos and other forms of permanent body art are increasingly popular with teenagers and young adults. While tattoos may be widespread and openly accepted, it is still a crime to perform a tattoo on a person under the age of 18. This action is prohibited under California Penal Code Section 653 PC.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in California, please visit the website of California Department of Public Health.
How is Tattooing Regulated in Colorado?
Colorado Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
According to Colorado Revised Statutes. § 25-4-2101 to 2103 on Tattooing and Body Piercing it is illegal to perform any form of body art procedure on a minor. An exception exists which requires the body artist to receive express consent from the minor’s parent or guardian. Specific requirements to perform tattoo artist services can generally be used as a guideline, but with body art services, many of the licensing regulations are determined by local laws. Tattoo artists, microblading and other permanent cosmetic services become public health and safety concerns, which can be regulated by both the state and county. For example, some states may have a Safe Body Art Act to maintain standards, but then each county has different fees and qualifications to prove training and experience.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Colorado, please visit the website of Department of Public Health and Environment.
How is Tattooing Regulated in Connecticut?
Connecticut Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Tattoo industry in Connecticut is governed by Connecticut General Statutes §19a-92g on Tattooing, which prohibits a tattoo artist from working on an unemancipated minor under age 18 unless a prior permission of the minor’s parent or guardian has been received.
The law prohibits the tattooing of an unemancipated minor under 18 years old without the permission of the minor's parent or guardian (CGS § 19a-92a(c)).
The law provides that any person who violates these provisions faces a fine of up to $100, imprisonment of up to 90 days, or both (CGS § 19a-92a(e))
As far as body piercing, the Department of Public Health does not have jurisdiction over body piercing.
Public Act 16-66 Summary. Section 2 of Public Act 16-66 makes engaging in the practice of tattooing without a license or temporary permit a class D misdemeanor (Effective October 1, 2016).
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Connecticut, please visit the website of Connecticut Department of Public Health.
How is Tattooing Regulated in the District of Columbia?
District of Columbia Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Code of District of Columbia annotated – D.C. Code Ann. § 47-2853.76d – states that it is illegal for any person to perform any body art procedures without first getting licensed by and registered with the Mayor to perform such body art procedures. Moreover, the D.C. law states that any and all body art procedures performed on minors under the age of 18 are illegal with the exception of ear piercing but only if done with the use of a mechanized, pre-sterilized single-use stud and ear clasp gun.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in the District of Columbia, please visit the website of DC Health .
How is Tattooing Regulated in Delaware?
Delaware Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Tattooing and Body Piercing in Delaware is governed by Del. Code Ann. tit. 16, §122(3)(w) and Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, §1114(a) – Delaware Code Annotated which establishes the standards for sanitary operation of tattoo parlors as well as body piercing establishments. A tattoo parlor is understood to be either a person or a business that creates permanent marks on human skin by puncturing the skin and inserting an indelible color or by producing scarring.
Delaware law makes it illegal to tattoo or pierce a minor both knowingly or not, unless an express written consent of the adult parent or legal guardian is given prior to the procedure. It is illegal to tattoo another person who is under the influence of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine and spirits or a controlled substance.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Delaware, please visit the website of Division of Public Health – Delaware Health and Social Services.
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Florida?
Florida Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Tattooing and body piercings in Florida are governed by the following Florida Statutes:
Fla. Stat. §381.075 regulates operations of body-piercing salons.
Fla. Stat. §381.0775 et seq. All Tattoo Establishments require licensure. A person may not operate a Tattoo Establishment in this state without a license.
Effective January 1, 2013 any person operating an unlicensed tattoo establishment will be subject to administrative penalties.
The Florida Statutes do not have provisions for a mobile tattoo license. All tattooing must occur in a licensed fixed or temporary tattoo establishment.
Licensure of a tattoo establishment requires submission of the following items:
Completed *Application for Tattoo Establishment License ($200)
Pass inspection in compliance with sections 381.00771 – 381.00791, Florida Statutes, “The Practice of Tattooing” and Rule 64E-28, Florida Administrative Code .
Register business name with the Florida Department of State.
Contact city/county for the potential need for business tax receipt
Completed *Biomedical Waste Permit ($85)
Submit all forms/fees to the County Health Department where your business is located.
Fla. Stat. § 381.00787 which states the following: “Tattooing prohibited; penalty. (1) A person may not tattoo the body of a minor child younger than 16 years of age unless the tattooing is performed for medical or dental purposes by a person licensed to practice medicine or dentistry under chapter 458, chapter 459, or chapter 466.“
Tattooing of a minor requires written, notarized consent of a parent or legal guardian.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Florida, please visit the website of Florida Department of Health .
How Much Does it Cost to Become A Tattoo Artist?
How is Tattooing Regulated in Georgia?
Georgia Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Tattoo industry in Georgia is governed by the Georgia Code:
Ga. Code § 31-40-1 to 31-40-10 regulates operation of Tattoo Studios: “It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a tattoo studio without having first obtained a valid permit for such studio. Such permits shall be issued by the county board of health or its duly authorized representative, subject to supervision and direction by the Department of Community Health but, where the county board of health is not functioning, the permit shall be issued by the department.
A permit shall be valid until suspended or revoked and shall not be transferable with respect to person or location. “
Ga. Code § 16-12-5 makes it unlawful to tattoo within an inch of the eye socket.
Ga. Code § 16-5-71.1 on Tattooing makes illegal the practice of tattooing anyone under age 18 by anyone other than a licensed osteopath or technician acting under the direct supervision of a licensed physician or osteopath.
Are tattoos regulated in Georgia?
It shall be unlawful for any person to perform body art procedures without having first obtained a valid body artist license from the health authority pursuant to the Georgia Rules and Regulations of Body Art Studios and Tattoo/Body Piercing Artists.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Georgia, please visit the website of Georgia Department of Public Health .
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Hawaii?
Hawaii Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Tattoo industry in the state of Hawaii is governed by the following Hawaii Revised Statutes:
Hawaii Rev. Stat. § 321-13 defines and regulates tattoo artists. This statute establishes public health requirements for tattoo licenses and operations of tattoo parlors.
Hawaii Rev. Stat. § 321-379 on Tattooing of Minors states that tattooing a minor under 18 years of age without first obtaining a written consent of the minor’s parent or a legal guardian is illegal. Also requires maintaining the proper consent forms in a confidential manner at the tattoo shop for not less than two years.
Permit for tattoo shop -
(a)
No person, partnership, firm, or corporation shall operate a tattoo shop unless such person, partnership, firm, or corporation has registered such shop with the department and has been issued a permit. No permit shall be issued or renewed unless the shop has been inspected by the director and found to be in compliance with the requirements of this chapter.
(b)
The permit shall be non-transferable. A valid permit shall be posted in a conspicuous place in every tattoo shop.
(c)
Each application under this section shall be accompanied by a fee of $75 for a permit. For renewal of a permit, each applicant shall pay a fee of $7.50.
(d)
In the event of withdrawal of an application or failure to qualify for a permit, the fee shall not be refunded to the applicant.
(e)
All permits shall expire on January 31 of each year. Application for the renewal of a permit shall be submitted to the department in writing before January 31 of each year. [Eff. SEP 18 1981] (Auth: HRS §§321-10, 321-11, 321-13) (Imp: HRS §321-11, 321-13)
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Hawaii, please visit the website of Hawaii State Department of Health .
How is Tattooing Regulated in Idaho?
Idaho Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations Idaho Code § 18-1523 (2004)
“Tattoo” means one (1) or more of the following but does not include any mark or design done for a medical purpose:
(i) An indelible mark made on the body of another person by the insertion of a pigment under the skin; or
(ii) An indelible design made on the body of another person by production of scars other than by branding.
No person shall knowingly tattoo, brand or perform body piercing on a minor under the age of 14. Also makes it illegal to tattoo, brand or body pierce anyone between the ages of 14 and 18 without the written informed consent of the minor’s parent or legal guardian.
Ear piercing and any piercing done for medical reasons are not subject to this legislation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, it shall not be a violation of this section for a physician to use radiation devices approved by the federal food and drug administration for in-office treatment of a minor’s medical condition or to facilitate a minor’s use of a tanning device where such use is authorized by a physician’s prescription.
A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars ($500). If there is a subsequent violation of this section within one (1) year of the initial violation, such person shall be fined not less than five hundred dollars ($500) and not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000).
History:
[18-1523, added 2004, ch. 127, sec. 1, p. 436; am. 2015, ch. 91, sec. 1, p. 225.]
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Idaho, please visit the website of Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
How is Tattooing Regulated in Illinois?
Illinois Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Tattoo and body piercing industries in Illinois are governed by the following laws:
Ill. Rev. Stat. 410 §54/1 to 54/999 – The Tattoo and Body Piercing Establishment Registration Act. This law regulates the public health, safety and welfare requirements for body piercing shops and tattoo parlors.
Ill. Rev. Stat. 720 §5/12C-35 – this law makes it a Class A misdemeanor for any person who is not licensed to practice medicine to perform a tattoo or offer to perform one to a minor under age 18. Allowing a person under 18 to remain on the premises where tattoos are being performed is also a Class A misdemeanor if the minor’s parent or legal guardian is not present.
As used in this Section, to "tattoo" means to insert pigment under the surface of the skin of a human being, by pricking with a needle or otherwise, so as to produce an indelible mark or figure visible through the skin.
(d) Subsection (a) of this Section does not apply to a person under 18 years of age who tattoos or offers to tattoo another person under 18 years of age away from the premises of any business at which tattooing is performed.
(Source: P.A. 77-2638.)
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Illinois, please visit the website of Illinois Department of Public Health.
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How is Tattooing Regulated in Indiana?
Indiana Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Laws of the state of Indiana – SECTION 1. IC 25-1-19 – prohibit performing or even offering to perform tattoos of the sclera. The act allows for an exception where a licensed health care professional performs the tattoo during a course of a medical treatment that is in the scope of the professional’s practice.
Ind. Code Ann. §16-19-3-4.1 dealing with tattoos and body piercing establishes guidelines for the sanitary operations of tattoo shops and body piercing businesses in the state of Indiana.
Ind. Code Ann. §35-42-2-7 deals with tattooing and performing body piercing of a minor. This law makes a minor’s parent or legal guardian presence a requirement in order to either tattoo or perform a body piercing of a person under 18. This law also stipulates that the parent or guardian also needs to provide written permission for tattooing or piercing of a minor.
Local ordinances regarding tattooing and body piercing that are at least as restrictive or more restrictive than the present laws may be adopted.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Indiana, please visit the website of Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH).
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Iowa?
Iowa Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Iowa Code §135.37 entitled “Tattooing Establishments and Tattoo Artists” establishes permit and operational requirements for tattoo artists and tattoo shops. It also prohibits anyone from tattooing an unmarried person under the age of 18. Iowa does not permit anyone under the age of 18 to get a tattoo.
Even if parents grant their consent, a minor cannot get a tattoo in the state of Iowa. The Iowa law concentrates greatly permitting of the tattoo artists and the facilities in which they operate.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Iowa, please visit the website of Iowa Department of Public Health .
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Kansas?
Kansas Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Tattoo industry in the state of Kansas is governed by the 2019-2020 Kansas State Legislature, namely Article 19. – Licensure of Entities by State Board of Cosmetology: Kan. Stat. Ann. §65-1940 to 65-1954 Tattoo, Body Piercing and Cosmetic Tattoo states that for any person, including a tattoo artist, cosmetic tattoo artist or body piercer, to legally perform a tattoo, cosmetic tattooing or body piercing on another person, display a sign or in any other way advertise or purport to be a tattoo artist, cosmetic tattoo artist or body piercer that person needs to hold a valid license issued by the State Board of Cosmetology. Violation of this requirement is a class A nonperson misdemeanor.
Kan. Stat. Ann. §65-1953 deals with tattooing and body piercing of a minor and makes it illegal for any person to perform body piercing, cosmetic tattooing or tattooing on any minor under 18 years of age, unless a written and notarized consent is given and the minor’s parent or court-appointed guardian is present during the procedure. The tattoo artist is required to keep a copy of the written permission on file for a period of at least five years – violation is a class A misdemeanor.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Kansas, please visit the website of Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Kentucky?
Kentucky Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
According to Kentucky Statute on Tattooing (Ky. Rev. Stat. §194A.050; 211.760.) the Department for Public Health, Division of Public Health Food Safety Branch is tasked with development of statewide Tattoo, Body Piercing and Ear Piercing Program plans, objectives, policies and procedures and is required to help local health departments carry out state law. The program registers tattoo artists and body and ear piercers and certifies body piercing establishments and tattoo parlors.
Ky. Rev. Stat. §211.760 entitled “Tattooing and Body Piercing of a Minor” prohibits any person from tattooing or piercing a minor unless written and notarized consent is given by a parent or guardian.
Studio Requirements.
(1)A studio shall:
(a) Be kept clean and in good repair;
(b) Be free of insect and rodent infestation;
(c) Store only items necessary to its operation and maintenance;
(d) Provide artificial light of at least twenty (20) foot-candles;
(e) Be well ventilated;
(f) Not permit the presence of a pet or other animal in the studio, except for a service animal;
(g) Not use a room otherwise used as living or sleeping quarters;
(h) Use a solid, self-closing door to separate living or sleeping quarters from the business operation;
(I) Have convenient, clean, and sanitary toilet and hand-washing facilities for the use of clientele with liquid soap, single-use paper towels from a sanitary dispenser or air dryer, covered waste receptacle, and self-closing door;
(j) Be organized to keep clean areas separate from contaminated areas;
(k) Have a utility sink that shall only be used to wash contaminated instruments;
(l) Use, clean, and maintain equipment according to manufacturers' recommendations;
(m) Use an approved disinfectant;
(n) Have plumbing sized, installed, and maintained in accordance with 815 KAR Chapter 20;
(o) Have sufficient potable water supply for the needs of the studio provided from a source constructed, maintained, and operated pursuant to the applicable requirements established in 401 KAR Chapter 8; and
(p) Dispose of sewage, including liquid waste, by connection to:
- a public sewer system, if available; or
- a private sewer system designed, constructed, and operated pursuant to the requirements of 401 KAR Chapter 5 and 902 KAR Chapter 10.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Kentucky, please visit the website of Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH).
How is Tattooing Regulated in Louisiana?
Louisiana Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Louisiana Revised Statute “Commercial Body Art” (La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 40:2831 et seq.) requires every facility that offers services including tattooing, body-piercing, or other Commercial Body Art services must obtain a permit in accordance with these regulations. Persons performing the services mentioned must also be registered with the state.
Tattooing and Body Piercing of a Minor (La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §14:93.2 ) makes it illegal for any person to tattoo or to pierce a minor under the age of 18 years unless consent is given by the parent or legal custodian of the minor who must also be accompanied to and supervised during the procedure.
Persons found guilty of violating the provisions of the applicable section shall be fined not less than $100 or more than $500 or be imprisoned for no less than 30 days nor more than on year or both.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Louisiana, please visit the website of Louisiana Department of Health .
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Maine?
Maine Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
The tattoo industry in Maine is governed by the following Maine Revised Statutes:
Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 32 §4201 to 4301 – Tattoo Artist: establishes public health requirements for licenses and operational standards of tattoo shops.
Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 32 §4321 to 4329 – Body Piercing: makes a license from Department of Health and Human Services a requirement for anybody who practices the art of body piercing.
Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 32 §4203 – Tattooing of a Minor: prohibits tattooing anyone under the age of 18.
Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Title 32 §4323 – Body Piercing of a Minor: makes prior written consent of a minor’s parent or legal guardian mandatory before a body piercing procedure can be performed on a minor under 18.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Maine, please visit the website of Department of Health and Human Services.
How is Tattooing Regulated in Maryland?
Maryland Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Code of Md. Regs. 10.06.01.0 – Cosmetic Tattooing: Department of Health and Mental Hygiene prohibits tattooing in salons. Skin-Penetrating Body Adornment Procedures, which includes both body piercing and tattoos, must protect against infections.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Maryland, please visit the website of Maryland Department of Health.
How is Tattooing Regulated in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Mass. Gen. Law ch. 111, §31 – Boards of health may make reasonable health regulations.
Mass. Gen. Law ch. 112, §2 – requires that a tattoo be performed by a qualified physician.
4201 - Definitions
Tattoo means to insert pigment under the skin of a human being by pricking with a needle or otherwise, so as to produce an indelible mark or figure visible through the skin.
4203- Minors
No person shall place a tattoo mark or figure upon a person under the age of 18 years.
4251- Rules and regulations
The Department of Human Services is authorized and empowered to make necessary rules and regulations governing the application of tattoos upon the bodies of human beings.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Massachusetts, please visit the website of Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Michigan?
Michigan Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Mich. Comp. Laws §333.13101 to 333.13112 Body Art Facilities. Duties of a person who owns or operates a body art facility; Section 333. 13104. Tattooing, branding, or performing body-piercing; licensure of body art facility required; application; form; issuance; duration; fees.
Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. §333.13102 Tattooing or performing a piercing on an underage person without the prior written consent of the minor’s parent or legal guardian (executed the in the presence of the person performing the act) is prohibited. Excludes emancipated minors.
As in many states, a minor, with parental consent, and often with the requirement that the parent be present, can get a tattoo. However, a story by a tattoo artist in Michigan notes that the artist is not required to perform a tattoo on a minor and therefore, chooses not to do so under any circumstances. Thus, while minors may get tattoos, it is possible that the desired tattoo artist may not choose to give tattoos to minors.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Michigan, please visit the website of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Minnesota?
Minnesota Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Minn. Stat. §§146B.01 to 146B.10 License issued by the commissioner is required in order to maintain, own, or operate a body art establishment
It is illegal for anyone under age 18 to receive a tattoo or a body piercing without written parental consent. Violation is a misdemeanor.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Minnesota, please visit the website of Minnesota Department of Health.
How is Tattooing Regulated in Mississippi?
Mississippi Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Miss. Code Ann. §73-61-1 et seq. makes it illegal for anybody to perform tattooing or body piercing upon any person for compensation with the state without possessing a current and valid Certificate of Registration issued by the Department of Health.
Tattooing or piercing of a minor under age 18 is prohibited. Violation is a misdemeanor and carries a maximum fine of $500.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Mississippi, please visit the website of Mississippi State Department of Health.
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Missouri?
Missouri Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Mo. Rev. Stat. §324.520 to 324.526 – license issued by the director of the division of professional registration needed to practice tattooing, body piercing or branding or to operate an establishment in which tattoos, body piercing or brandings are performed.
Mo. Rev. Stat. §324.520 it is illegal to knowingly tattoo or pierce a body of a minor without prior written, informed consent of the minor’s parent or legal guardian.
The person performing the tattoo cannot do so if the person getting the tattoo is under the influence of intoxicating liquor or control substance. Tattoo artists may not remove a tattoo since that is considered to be a surgical process, and operators must inform customers of potential medical dangers such as diabetics or people suffering from liver or kidney illness.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Missouri, please visit the website of Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
How is Tattooing Regulated in Montana?
Montana Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Mont. Code Ann. §§50-48-101 to 110; §§50-48-201 to 209: Tattoo and body piercing shops need to be regulated in order to protect public health and safety. It is illegal to knowingly tattoo or pierce a body of a minor without explicit in-person consent of the parent or guardian.
A person convicted of the offense of unlawful transactions with children shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for any term not to exceed 6 months, or both.
A person convicted of a second offense of unlawful transactions with children shall be fined an amount not to exceed $1,000 or be imprisoned in the county jail for any term not to exceed 6 months, or both. (See compiler's comments for contingent termination of certain text.)
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Montana, please visit the website of Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services.
How do You Get a Tattoo License in Nebraska?
Nebraska Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Neb. Rev. Stat. § 38-1001 to 38-10,171 Tattooing and piercing is combined into one practice called “body art” which requires a license from the Department of Cosmetology, Electrology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, and Body Art Practice Act.
Performing body art on a person under 18 years of age without prior written consent of the minor’s parent or guardian is prohibited.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Nebraska, please visit the website of Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS).
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How is Tattooing Regulated in Nevada?
Nevada Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Nevada is the only state in the United States that has no laws dealing with age limits for tattoos or body piercing. However, the state does have laws regarding the licensing and registration of tattoo artists.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Nevada, please visit the website of Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
How do You Get a Tattoo License in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 314-A:1 tp 314-A:13 makes practicing body piercing, branding, or tattooing without a license illegal. License and regulation of body art practitioners or tattooing facilities is required.
Tattooing and branding a person under the age of 18 are prohibited in New Hampshire. There are no listed exceptions for minors with parental consent. A minor having parental consent can have body piercing. However, tattoos before the age of 18 are prohibited.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in New Hampshire , please visit the website of New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.
How is Tattooing Regulated in New Jersey?
New Jersey Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
Following in the path of other states, the New Jersey law states that “no tattoo or permanent cosmetics shall be applied to any person under 18 years of age without the presence, written consent and proper identification of a parent or legal guardian.
N.J. Stat. Ann. §26-1A-7 defines the state’s sanitary code.
N.J.A.C. 8:27-1 et seq. Establishes sterilization, sanitation, and safety standards for the tattoo industry in order to protect the public’s health.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in New Jersey, please visit the website of New Jersey Department of Health.
How do You Get a Tattoo License in New Mexico?
New Mexico Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
N.M. Stat. Ann. § 61-17B-1 et seq. Body Art Safe Practices Act provides a safe and healthy environment for the body art industry
N.M. Administrative Code 16.36.2 et seq. establishes training and licensing requirements for tattooing, piercing, scarification, and other forms of body art. All establishments must be licensed.
Like many states, tattoos may be performed on persons under 18. However, New Mexico, adds some other options and requirements as listed in the state statutes. While mapping out a procedure for minors to get tattoos, the law states that the tattoo operator is not required to tattoo the person, even if parental consent has been provided. The restrictions include: “No person shall perform any body art upon a person under the age of 18 years without the written consent of a parent or legal guardian.
The written consent must be kept on the premises at the body art establishment. The parent or legal guardian does not have to stay at the body art establishment during the entire body art procedure as long as the parent or legal guardian provides written and notarized consent to the specific planned procedure(s) to the body art establishment prior to the procedure(s). If the parent or legal guardian remains present during the body art procedure, the written consent does not have to be notarized. Written consent shall be personally delivered to the body art establishment by the parent or legal guardian; delivery by the person under 18 years of age is not sufficient. Photographic identification of the parent or legal guardian is required.
To find out more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in New Mexico, please visit the website of New Mexico Department of Health.
How is Tattooing Regulated in New York?
New York Tattoo Laws, Legislation, and Regulations
N.Y. Public Health Law §460-466 Establishes regulations for the Body Piercing and Tattooing industry.
N.Y. Public Health Law § 460A; N.Y. Penal Law § 260.21 makes it unlawful to tattoo the body of a child under the age of 18 years. Violation is a class B misdemeanor.
Risks associated with tattooing and body piercing
Tattooing and body piercing carry risks of infection and bloodborne disease transmission as well as allergic reactions, prolonged bleeding, swelling, scarring, and general discomfort. Existing medical conditions such as allergies, heart disease, diabetes, skin disorders, or conditions that affect the immune system may increase the risk of complications from tattooing and body piercing. You may wish to speak with a physician regarding potential health risks before getting a tattoo or body piercing.
For more information, go to:
Risks to Consumers - US Food & Drug Administration (FDA)
Risks to Tattooists and Piercers - US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Workplace safety and health topics--Bloodborne Infectious Diseases: HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatitis C Virus
