How to Become a State Certified Tattoo Artist

Are you incredibly intrigued by tattoos? Are you an artist? Why not combine the two passions of your life and become a tattoo artist? If you receive state certification as a tattoo artist, you're employment prospects will increase dramatically. These steps will help show how you can become state certified as a tattoo artist and embark on the career of your dreams.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Fees required by state
• Course certificate
• Universal Precautions Training

Instructions

1. 

   Becoming state certified as a tattoo artist is as simple as completing an online or correspondence course if classes or workshops aren't available in your area. See the link in the Resources section below for an online tattoo academy.

2. 

   Before paying for any class, whether it is online or at a physical establishment, check with your state's Department of Health to be sure all mandated guidelines are met. Some states require additional certification within the health field in order to be state certified as a tattoo artist.

3. 

   Achieve a 75 percent or better score in a number of required tests. You will need to learn a particular code of ethics designed for body artists. In addition, you'll be required to study skin anatomy and physiology, procedures for studios and tattoos, blood-borne pathogens, OSHA standards, guidelines issued by the Food and Drug Administration, rules of the state and local regulatory offices and any other specifications required by your location (see Resources below).

4. 

   Many courses along the road to state certification include the application or administering of permanent makeup. While requiring the steady and skillful hand of an experienced tattoo artist, this expands the services an artist or shop can provide.

5. 

   Many states will allow tattoo artists to become licensed after serving apprenticeships in place of taking training classes or programs. Such courses provide artists with important information and education that can significantly reduce the chance of liabilities down the road (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Always check with your state's Department of Health before paying for any tattoo certification course to be sure all necessary guidelines are being addressed.

Resources

• American Tattooing Institute
• Guidelines issued by the Food and Drug Administration.
• Become licensed after serving an apprenticeship.