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How to become a licensed tattoo artist in Hawaii. No formal apprenticeship required. BBP training required. Shop license required. Total fees: $200. Verified 2026-03-21. Data verified 2026-03-21. Source: LicenseMap (getlicensemap.com).
Tattoo Artist
License
Regulation Type
Not Required
Apprenticeship
4 hrs
BBP Training
Required
Shop License
0 hrs
CE Hours
$200
Total Initial Fees
Regulation Details
VerifiedRegulation Type
License
Regulation Level
State
Credential Title
Tattoo Artist License
Title Protection
No
Training & Certification
VerifiedApprenticeship
Not Required
Bloodborne Pathogen Training
4 hours
CPR / First Aid
Not Required
Infection Control Training
Included in BBP
Apprenticeship Details
Apprenticeship not required at state level
Additional Training Requirements
Most states require tattoo artists to complete bloodborne pathogen (BBP) training and may require an apprenticeship under a licensed artist before obtaining their own license. Training requirements vary significantly by state.
Sterilization, Safety & Client Protections
VerifiedRequired
Autoclave
Required
Single-Use Needles
Monthly
Spore Testing
Health Department Inspections
Annual
Client Consent Forms
Required
Minimum Age to Tattoo Others
18 years old
Minor Tattoo Rules
Written consent from parent/guardian required to tattoo a minor
Health and safety requirements protect both the artist and the client. Most states mandate single-use needles, proper sterilization via autoclave, and regular spore testing. Client consent forms are typically required and must include health disclosures and aftercare instructions.
Tattoo Establishment Licensing
VerifiedRequired
Shop License
Separate
License Type
Required
Shop Inspection
Minimum Space Requirements
Separate workstation; only tattooing shall be performed in a tattoo shop
Equipment Requirements
Record Keeping
Client consent forms, procedure records must be maintained per Hawaii Administrative Rules Chapter 11-17
Many states require a separate shop or establishment license in addition to the individual artist license. Shop inspections ensure compliance with health codes, sanitation standards, and safety protocols.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Artist License Fee | $50 |
Shop License Fee | $100 |
Application Fee | $50 |
Renewal Fee | $50 |
Inspection Fee | Included |
Total Initial Fees Includes artist license and shop permit fees | $200 |
Renewal & CE Requirements
Verified1 year
Renewal Period
0 hrs
CE Hours Required
Annual
BBP Refresher
Renewal Fee
$50
Regulatory Board
Tattoo artist licenses must be renewed on schedule. Many states require bloodborne pathogen (BBP) refresher training as part of the renewal process. Some states also require continuing education in infection control and safety practices.
Out-of-State Reciprocity
VerifiedAccepts Out-of-State Credentials
Endorsement Available
No
Reciprocity Requirements
Must meet Hawaii requirements independently
Portability Details
Out-of-state artists must apply for a new license and meet all Hawaii requirements
Tattoo artist license reciprocity varies between states. Some states accept out-of-state credentials with proof of training, while others require a full new application. Bloodborne pathogen training is typically required regardless of prior licensure.
Hawaii requires BBP training specific to the tattoo industry (not generic OSHA). Only tattooing is permitted in a licensed tattoo shop. Temporary event permits range from $50 to $500.
Hawaii licenses tattoo artists through the Department of Health Sanitation Branch.
BBP training must be specific to the tattoo industry.
Only tattooing may be performed in a licensed tattoo shop.
Tattooing persons under the influence is prohibited.
Temporary permits available for events ($50-$500 depending on size).
There is no interstate compact for tattoo artists.
Explore requirements for other professional licenses in Hawaii.
How this state compares to 50 others for this profession
Timeline
#1 of 51
Cost
#5 of 51
Processing
#1 of 51
Government fees and exam costs to obtain your initial license
Note: These are government licensing fees only. Education/training program costs (tuition, books, etc.) are not included as they vary widely by institution.
Estimated total: 4–14 weeks
Timeline estimated from licensing requirements on this page.
Source: Hawaii Department of Health — Sanitation Branch — Licensing Requirements
1–4 weeks
Estimated processing time
Source: Hawaii Department of Health — Sanitation Branch — Licensing Requirements
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Hawaii requires license for tattoo artists. BBP training is mandatory. All licensing is managed through the Hawaii Department of Health — Sanitation Branch.
Requirements vary by state and locality. Always verify current requirements with your state or local licensing authority.