Are you interested in becoming a tattoo artist in Texas? If so, you’ll need to obtain a tattoo license in order to legally practice. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to get a tattoo license in Texas. We’ll cover the regulations, requirements, and steps you must take to get your license and start your tattooing career. Read on to unlock the secrets to how to get a tattoo license in Texas.
Contents
Overview of Tattoo Licensing Requirements in Texas
Texas requires tattoo artists to obtain a valid tattoo license in order to legally practice. The licensing process can seem daunting, but by understanding the requirements, you can easily become a licensed tattoo artist in Texas. Here’s an overview of the tattoo licensing requirements in Texas:
- You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a tattoo license in Texas.
- You must complete a minimum of 250 hours of training from an approved tattoo school or apprenticeship.
- You must pass a written exam with a score of at least 75%.
- You must submit an application to the Texas Department of State Health Services, along with applicable fees.
- You must complete a bloodborne pathogen training course.
- You must show proof of liability insurance.
- You must submit to a criminal background check.
Once you have completed all of the above requirements, you can become a licensed tattoo artist in Texas. After you receive your license, you must renew it every year and keep up with any changes to the Texas tattoo laws and regulations. With these steps, you can learn how to become a tattoo artist in Texas and open your own shop.
Obtaining the Necessary Education
What is required to become a tattoo artist in Texas?
- You must attend and complete a training program in tattooing, which is approved by the state of Texas.
- Training programs typically last 3-6 months, and they cover topics such as sterilization, safety, and anatomy.
- You must also complete a basic course in bloodborne pathogens.
- You must be at least 18 years old to enroll in a tattooing program.
- The total cost of a tattooing program can range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- You must also submit a copy of your high school diploma or GED.
In order to qualify for a tattoo license in Texas, you must complete all of the necessary educational requirements. These requirements include attending a training program in tattooing, completing a course in basic bloodborne pathogens, and providing proof of high school graduation or GED. After you have completed the educational requirements, you will be eligible to take the state’s licensing exam.
Applying for the Necessary Licenses
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a body art technician license in Texas.
- Before submitting your application, you must complete a body art technician training program in the form of a 10-hour course.
- The training course must cover the following topics:
- Infection control
- Tattooing and piercing techniques
- Blood-borne pathogens
- Local, state, and federal regulations
- You must also take a test administered by the Department of State Health Services after completing the training program.
- Your application must include the following documents:
- Proof of identity and age
- Proof of completion of the approved body art technician training program
- Proof of passing the test administered by the Department of State Health Services
- Completed application form and fee
- You must also pass a criminal background check as part of the application process.
- Once you have submitted your application and all required documents, you will be notified within 30 days if you have been approved for a body art technician license.
Meeting the Age Requirements
In order to obtain a tattoo license in Texas, you must be at least 18 years of age. To prove your age, you must provide a valid government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID. You must also provide proof of your residence, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
To ensure that you meet the age requirements, most Texas counties require applicants to pass a background check. This check includes verifying your age, criminal history, and any other relevant information. The results of the background check must be provided to the county before the application can be approved.
The following table outlines the age requirements for tattooing in Texas:
| Age | Requirements |
|---|---|
| 18+ | Must provide valid government-issued ID and proof of residence. |
Meeting the Health Requirements
- Proof of Immunization – A copy of an immunization record (or a physician’s statement) must be provided that shows proof of immunity against Hepatitis B.
- Bloodborne Pathogens Training – You must have documented proof of passing an approved Bloodborne Pathogens class.
- Tuberculosis Test – You must have a negative TB test result within the last 6 months.
- HIV/AIDS Test – You must have a negative HIV/AIDS test result within the last 12 months.
- CPR Certification – You must have valid CPR certification.
Taking the Necessary Tests
- Bloodborne Pathogens and Infection Control Test – You must take a test on bloodborne pathogens and infection control and receive a passing score in order to receive a tattoo license in Texas.
- Tattooing Laws and Regulations Test – This test covers the laws and regulations surrounding tattooing in Texas and must be passed in order to receive a tattoo license.
- Tattooing Safety and Sanitation Test – This test covers the safety and sanitation requirements for tattooing in Texas, and must be passed in order to receive a tattoo license.
Obtaining Liability Insurance
- Research different insurance companies to get the best coverage for your needs.
- Compare the available policies and decide which one best fits your situation.
- Determine the amount of coverage necessary to protect yourself from any liability.
- Get a Quote from the insurance company you choose and review the details of the policy.
- Purchase the policy and keep a copy of the insurance certificate for your records.
Obtaining a Business License
To become a tattoo artist in Texas, you must obtain a business license. The process of obtaining a business license to become a tattoo artist in Texas requires filing an application with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The application must include all the required information, such as your name, address, Social Security number, and other pertinent information. Additionally, you must include a copy of a valid Texas driver’s license or ID card.
Applicants are subject to a background check and must provide proof of any prior criminal convictions, if applicable. The application fee for a tattoo business license is currently $110. If approved, the license will be valid for two years and must be renewed prior to its expiration date.
Applicants must also comply with any additional local requirements. This may include obtaining a local permit, registering with the local fire department, and/or obtaining other permits or certificates. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of liability insurance, which must meet certain minimum requirements.
Furthermore, applicants must provide proof of completion of a Texas Department of State Health Services approved tattoo artist training program. This program must include topics such as infection control, blood-borne pathogens, and other safety and health related topics.
Once approved, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation will issue a business license. This license must be prominently displayed in the tattoo business’s establishment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Requirements to Apply for a Tattoo Artist License in Texas?
- Proof of age: Applicants must be 18 years or older.
- Proof of training: Applicants must provide proof of completion of an apprenticeship program, professional training program, or other educational program in the field of tattooing.
- Proof of bloodborne pathogens certification: Applicants must provide proof of valid Bloodborne Pathogens certification.
- Proof of hepatitis B vaccination: Applicants must provide proof of valid hepatitis B vaccination.
- Proof of liability insurance: Applicants must provide proof of valid tattoo artist liability insurance.
- Proof of residency: Applicants must provide valid proof of Texas residency.
- Application fee: Applicants must submit the required fee to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
How Much Does it Cost to Obtain a Tattoo License in Texas?
In Texas, applicants must pay a $50 fee for their initial tattoo artist or tattoo establishment license. This fee is non-refundable. An additional $25 fee is required for each additional person listed on the license. In addition, applicants must pay a $150 fee to the Texas Department of State Health Services to cover the cost of a criminal background check.
Is there a minimum age requirement to get a tattoo license in Texas?
Yes, all applicants for a tattoo license in Texas must be at least 18 years old. Applicants must also submit proof of age, such as a birth certificate, driver’s license, or other government-issued photo ID. Additionally, applicants must have completed the required training and must pass the written exam administered by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Is There a Specific Type of Training That Is Required to Get a Tattoo License in Texas?
Yes. In order to be eligible for a tattoo license in Texas, you must have completed:
- A State-approved apprenticeship program of at least one year
- A bloodborne pathogen training program
- A course in the fundamentals of aseptic technique
- A course in the fundamentals of infection control
- A course in the fundamentals of anatomy and physiology
- A course in the fundamentals of tattooing
Additionally, you must have completed at least 40 hours of practical experience in a tattoo shop and be at least 18 years old.
What kind of documentation is needed to apply for a tattoo license in Texas?
In order to obtain a tattoo license in Texas, you will need the following documents:
- A duly completed and signed application form, including a valid photo ID.
- A valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Proof of training in a recognized program or school.
- Proof of passing a bloodborne pathogens exam.
- Proof of passing a written exam.
- Proof of passing a practical exam.
- Proof that you are at least 18 years of age.
- A completed HIPAA training form.
- A completed Texas Department of Health and Human Services form.
Additionally, you will need to provide the required fees for the license and any additional requirements as outlined by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Conclusion
In order to obtain a tattoo license in Texas, applicants must meet the educational, licensing and training requirements mandated by the Texas Department of Health and Human Services. Tattoo artists must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and complete a state-approved tattoo artist training program. Additionally, applicants must pass a state-administered written and practical exam, as well as submit a criminal background check. With all the necessary requirements met and licensing fees paid, tattoo artists can begin their journey in the tattoo industry.