Washington State Apprenticeship Laws
THIS IS GENERAL INFORMATION ON HOW TO BECOME AN APPRENTICE OR WANT A CAREER IN THE TATTOO/PIERCING INDUSTRY.
EVERY STATE/COUNTY HAS LAWS THAT MUST BE FOLLOWED.
Tattoo Artist Requirements
To become a tattoo artist in Washington state, you must meet the following requirements according to state law:
• You must be at least 18 years old and have a government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) to apply for licenses to practice body art in Washington.
• You must complete an apprenticeship under a licensed tattoo artist. The qualifications to become a tattoo apprentice include a high school diploma and artistic ability
• You must submit proof of your bloodborne pathogen certification. A bloodborne pathogen certification for aspiring artists is a certification received after completing a course on how to safely handle and dispose of needles, ink, and other materials used in tattooing. The course covers proper sterilization techniques, how to avoid cross-contamination, and what to do in the event of a needle stick injury
• You must pay a $250 fee to obtain a tattoo license in Washington state. Licenses are valid for one year after the date it was issued. Renewing a tattoo license in Washington costs $250. If you renew it after it has already expired but within less than a year, it is $350
In addition to the above requirements, it is essential to develop your skills in drawing, design, and art.
Many tattoo artists begin their journey by practicing on themselves or friends, but it is crucial to develop your skills to a professional and hygienic level.
Attend art classes, practice drawing and design, and study the different styles of tattooing.
Body Piercer Requirements
To become a body piercer in Washington state, you must meet the following requirements according to Washington State Laws:
• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must have a current and active bloodborne pathogens certificate. This certification is obtained after completing a course on how to safely handle and dispose of needles, ink, and other materials used in body piercing. The course covers proper sterilization techniques, how to avoid cross-contamination, and what to do in the event of a needle stick injury
• You must complete an apprenticeship under a licensed body piercer. The qualifications to become a body piercing apprentice include a high school diploma and artistic ability
• You must submit proof of your bloodborne pathogen certification.
• You must pay a $250 fee to obtain a body piercing license in Washington state. Licenses are valid for one year after the date it was issued. Renewing a body piercing license in Washington costs $250. If you renew it after it has already expired but within less than a year, it is $350