Loading...
Loading...
Tattoo Artist
Governing Authority
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services — Body Art Licensing
Official website →(517) 335-8024
No State-Level Tattoo Artist Regulation
Michigan does not have state-level licensing or regulation for tattoo artists. Local counties or cities may have their own health and safety requirements. Always check with your local health department.
Michigan is one of the few states that does not regulate tattoo artists at the state level. There is no state license, permit, or registration required. However, local jurisdictions (counties, cities, or health districts) may have their own requirements including health inspections, permits, and sanitation standards. Always check with your local health department before operating a tattoo studio.
No State-Level Tattoo Artist Regulation
Michigan does not regulate tattoo artists at the state level. There is no state license, permit, or registration required to practice as a tattoo artist. However, local jurisdictions (counties, cities, or health districts) may impose their own requirements.
Regulation Type
Facility Only
Regulation Level
State
Browse Tattoo Artist study materials on Amazon →(affiliate link)
Calculate your licensing ROI →
See how quickly your license investment pays for itself.
Compare Michigan with other states →
See how requirements, costs, and timelines differ across all 50 states.
Michigan Does Not Regulate Tattoo Artists at the State Level
Michigan does not have state-level licensing or regulation for tattoo artists. Local jurisdictions (counties, cities, or health districts) may have their own requirements for tattoo establishments, including health inspections, permits, and sanitation standards. Always check with your local health department before opening a studio or beginning to tattoo.
Michigan requires a 2-year apprenticeship and licenses tattoo artists through LARA. The state has comprehensive body art regulations including specific sterilization and record-keeping requirements.
Michigan licenses body art FACILITIES only. Individual tattoo artists are NOT separately licensed by the state. Artists must work in state-licensed facilities.
Bloodborne pathogen training (8 hours) is required for all tattoo practitioners.
A 2 years apprenticeship under a licensed practitioner is required.
Tattoo establishments must obtain a separate shop license/permit.
Minor tattoo rules: 18+ only; no minors.
There is no interstate compact for tattoo artists.
Not sure this is the right career? Take a 2-minute quiz →
Answer 6 quick questions and we'll match you with the best-fit licensed profession.
Tattoo Artist requirements in Michigan verified against Michigan Department of Health and Human Services — Body Art Licensing, March 2026.
While Michigan does not require a state-level license for tattoo artists, maintaining high standards of health and safety is essential. Consider voluntary BBP training and professional certifications to demonstrate competence to clients.
Requirements vary by state and locality. Always verify current requirements with your state or local licensing authority.