How to Become a Tattoo Artist

If you're passionate about tattooing and ready to make it a career, there's more to becoming a licensed tattoo artist in the U.S. than just mastering your craft. Tattooing involves working with skin, needles, and blood, which means safety and sanitation are critical. Each state has its own set of requirements to ensure tattoo artists operate under strict health and safety guidelines. To legally work as a tattoo artist, you’ll need to meet these requirements, which include training, certifications, and possibly an apprenticeship.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you need to do to get your tattoo license:

1. Complete OSHA-Required Training on Bloodborne Pathogens

One of the most important steps in becoming a licensed tattoo artist is completing OSHA-compliant Bloodborne Pathogen Training. This training is mandated under the OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030 Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, and it’s required for all tattoo artists across the U.S.

Why is this training essential? When you tattoo, you come into direct contact with blood and bodily fluids, which can transmit infections like hepatitis and HIV. Bloodborne pathogen training teaches you how to protect yourself, your clients, and others from these risks.

The course covers:

• Pathogen transmission
• Infection control methods
• Proper sterilization techniques
• Safe needle use and disposal

After completing the training, you’ll receive a certification valid for 12 months, so remember to renew it annually.

2. Get CPR Certified

While not every state requires tattoo artists to be CPR certified, many do. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification equips you with the skills to respond in emergency situations, such as if a client has a medical emergency while in your studio.

Typically, CPR certification involves attending a course through an accredited organization like the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Red Cross. Both offer in-person training that teaches you how to perform CPR and when it’s needed. Check with your state’s tattoo licensing board to see if this is a

requirement in your area.

3. Become First Aid Certified

Some states also require tattoo artists to complete First Aid Certification in addition to CPR. First aid training teaches you how to handle injuries, whether it’s a small cut or something more severe.

This training will help you respond to medical emergencies that could arise in your studio, from burns to severe allergic reactions. Like CPR certification, first aid certification can be obtained through accredited organizations like the AHA or Red Cross. Even if it's not required in your state, it’s a valuable skill set to have in your studio for client safety.

4. Complete a Tattoo Apprenticeship

In several states and jurisdictions, you’re required to complete a tattoo apprenticeship under a licensed tattoo artist before you can apply for a tattoo license. An apprenticeship is a formal training period where you work under an experienced artist to learn proper techniques, safety protocols, and business practices.

This period of hands-on training is critical because it gives you real-world experience in a professional tattoo shop. You’ll gain skills in:

• Design and placement techniques
• Client consultations
• Tattooing equipment use and maintenance
• Sterilization practices
• Health and safety regulations

The length of the apprenticeship varies by state, but it typically lasts 1-2 years. After completing your apprenticeship, your mentor will often need to sign off, documenting that you have the skills and experience

to work as a tattoo artist.

5. Undertake Your State's Tattoo License Examination

Once you’ve completed the necessary training and apprenticeship, you’ll need to pass your state’s tattoo license exam. These exams differ from state to state, but they generally consist of two components: a written test and a practical exam.

• Written Exam: This portion of the exam tests your knowledge of state laws and health regulations, including sanitation practices, disease prevention, and safety standards. Some states require a minimum passing score of 75% or higher.

• Practical Exam: In the practical exam, you’ll demonstrate your skills by performing a tattoo on a live model. Examiners will assess your technique, sanitary procedures, and ability to maintain a safe and clean environment while working.

Once you pass both the written and practical exams, you’ll receive your tattoo license, allowing you to practice legally within your state.