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Tattoo Artist
Total cost: $140
Permit
Regulation Type
Not Required
Apprenticeship
4 hrs
BBP Training
Required
Shop License
0 hrs
CE Hours
$140
Total Initial Fees
Regulation Details
VerifiedRegulation Type
Permit
Regulation Level
State
Credential Title
Tattoo Artist Permit
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.
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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
18+ only; tattooing of minors is prohibited
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 areas, handwashing station, sterilization area, and client waiting area required
Equipment Requirements
Record Keeping
Client consent forms, procedure records, sterilization logs, and spore test results must be maintained for a minimum of 3 years
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.
Not sure if you need a tattoo artist license? Check whether your state requires one.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
Artist License Fee | $140 |
Shop License Fee | $150 |
Application Fee | $25 |
Renewal Fee | $140 |
Inspection Fee | $50 |
Total Initial Fees Annual registration fee of $140 per TN Code § 62-38-204. Three license types available: tattoo artist, apprentice artist, temporary artist. | $140 |
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Renewal & CE Requirements
Verified1 year
Renewal Period
0 hrs
CE Hours Required
Annual
BBP Refresher
Renewal Fee
$140
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 Tennessee requirements independently; no formal reciprocity agreements
Portability Details
Out-of-state tattoo artists must apply for a new permit and meet all Tennessee 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.
Moving to another state? Use our Transfer Tool to see what you need →
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Tennessee requires permits for tattoo artists and allows tattooing of minors 16+ with written parental consent and a parent present during the procedure.
Tennessee requires a permit for tattoo artists regulated at the state level.
Bloodborne pathogen training (4 hours) is required for all tattoo practitioners.
No formal apprenticeship is required at the state level.
Tattoo establishments must obtain a separate shop license/permit.
Minor tattoo rules: 16+ with written parental consent and parent present.
There is no interstate compact for tattoo artists.
Tennessee requires tattoo artist registration with the Department of Health per TN Code § 62-38-204. Annual fee is $140. Three license types: tattoo artist, apprentice artist, temporary artist.
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Tattoo Artist requirements in Tennessee verified against Tennessee Department of Health, March 2026.
Tennessee requires permit for tattoo artists. BBP training is mandatory. All licensing is managed through the Tennessee Department of Health.
Requirements vary by state and locality. Always verify current requirements with your state or local licensing authority.