How to Become a Licensed Tattoo Artist in Hawaii in 2025
Becoming a licensed tattoo artist in Hawaii involves more than just mastering the craft of tattooing; it requires a deep understanding of state regulations, health standards, and cultural sensitivities. With the lush landscapes and rich heritage of the islands as your backdrop, the journey towards licensure unfolds amidst a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the essential steps, requirements, and considerations for aspiring tattoo artists in the Aloha State. From understanding the role of the Hawaii Department of Health in regulating body art establishments to honing your artistic skills and navigating the licensure process, each aspect is crucial in shaping your journey toward professional recognition as a tattoo artist.
By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you'll gain valuable insights and resources to navigate the intricacies of licensure, setting the stage for a fulfilling and successful career in the vibrant world of tattoo artistry amidst the tropical paradise of Hawaii.
Get Your Tattoo Artist License Today!
Before you start tattooing, you need an Artist License from the Department. A tattoo Artist License is your ticket to legally perform tattoo procedures. It shows that you've met the necessary requirements and have been approved by the Department to practice tattooing.
Having an Artist License ensures that you're operating within the law and upholding professional standards. It's a mark of credibility and trustworthiness in the tattooing industry. Are you ready to embark on your journey as a tattoo artist in Hawaii?
Our tattoo school, Ink Different, has locations in several vibrant cities across the United States? We do! We have locations in Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Chicago, Tampa, Miami, Philadelphia, and Connecticut.
What is the minimum age to get a Tattoo in Hawaii
In Hawaii, the minimum age for getting a tattoo is 18. Tattooing minors is prohibited unless a parent or guardian is present and gives written consent. Tattoo artists in the state must adhere to strict health and safety guidelines to prevent the spread of infections. Violation of these laws can result in fines, suspension of business licenses, or legal actions.
Applying for Your Artist License: What You Need to Know
Getting your Artist License is crucial for starting your journey as a tattoo artist. Get ready to kickstart your tattooing career with confidence and compliance! Here's what you need to include in your application in most of the states in USA:
Training Proof
Show proof of attending a Prevention of Disease Transmission and Bloodborne Pathogen Training Program approved by the Department of the State. The training should cover essential topics like:
Anatomy
Understand the human body's structure to ensure safe tattooing practices.
Skin Health
Learn about skin diseases, disorders, and conditions like diabetes that could impact tattooing.
Infection Control
Master techniques for waste disposal, hand hygiene, equipment sterilization, and facility sanitation to maintain a clean and safe environment.
Safety Measures
Ensure your studio follows proper safety and sanitation protocols to protect both clients and artists.
Take Your Shot: Hepatitis B Vaccination or Declination Letter
Before you start your tattoo artist career, you must provide proof that you've completed the Hepatitis B vaccination series. If you haven't been vaccinated, you need to submit a letter explaining why you've declined the vaccination.
Why is Hepatitis B Vaccination Important for Tattoo Artists?
Hepatitis B is a serious infection that can spread through bodily fluids, including blood. As a tattoo artist, you're at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens during the tattooing process. The Hepatitis B vaccine helps protect you from contracting and spreading the virus.
Compliance & Investigation for Artist
Before the Department grants an Artist permit, they conduct thorough investigations to ensure everyone follows the rules. This means they check if all requirements are met and if everything aligns with the regulations. By ensuring compliance, they maintain safety and professionalism in the tattooing industry.
Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.
Showcase Your Credentials
All Artist permits must be prominently displayed in the customer service area of the tattoo facility for easy client viewing. Posting your Artist permits where clients can see them builds trust and transparency. It shows that you’re licensed and authorized to perform tattooing services in your facility. Following posting requirements isn’t just about compliance—it’s about professionalism. By displaying your permits, you reassure clients that they’re in good hands and create a positive impression of your business.
Get Your Tattoo Artist License Today!
Before you start tattooing, you need an Artist Permit from the Department. A tattoo Artist License is your ticket to legally perform tattoo procedures. It shows that you've met the necessary requirements and have been approved by the Department to practice tattooing.
Having an Artist Permit ensures that you're operating within the law and upholding professional standards. It's a mark of credibility and trustworthiness in the tattooing industry. Are you ready to embark on your journey as a tattoo artist in the Hawaii?
The Step-Wise Become a Licensed Tattoo Artist in Hawaii in 2025
1
Complete a Bloodborne Pathogen Course
Take a Blood-Borne pathogen course developed specifically for the tattoo industry from ONE of the following online course websites mentioned above. The fees may be different for each online course website. If you PASS the course, move on to step 2.
The courses that are approved by the Hawaii Department of Health are as follows–
1.
Above
Training
Course name: Bloodborne Pathogens Training Course for Body Artists
Contact person: Christie H. Lewis, PhD, Sr. VP
Email: chl@abovetraining.com
Phone # (801)494-1416
ONLINE COURSE AVAILABLE AT: https://abovetraining.com
2.
Biologix
Solutions
Course name: Bloodborne Pathogens and Infection Control for Tattoo & Piercing Artists
Contact person: Dr. Alpesh Patel, Owner,
Email: admin@blxtraining.com
Phone # (630) 984-0093
ONLINE COURSE AVAILABLE AT:
https://blxtraining.com/tattoopiercing-bbp/
3.
Body Art
Training Group
Course name: Bloodborne Pathogens Training and Infection Control for Body Art Professionals (Course BBP300 - Nationwide)
Contact person: Kathy Hartman, Owner/Trainer,
Email: Kathy@bodyarttraininggroup.com
Phone # (858) 792-1630
ONLINE COURSE AVAILABLE AT: www.yourtrainingplace.com
4.
Cathy Montie Body
Art Training
Course Name: USA/International Blood Borne Pathogen Class
Contact Person: Cathy Montie, Owner
Email: cathy@cathymontie.com
Phone # (619) 742-8282
ONLINE COURSE AVAILABLE AT: www.cathymontie.com
5.
Compliance Training
Online
Course name: Tattoo Artists and Body Piercers OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen and Needlestick Prevention Certification
Contact person: Cindy Palmer, Customer Support,
email: cp@compliancetrainingonline.com
ONLINE COURSE AVAILABLE AT:
www.compliancetrainingonline.com
6.
ICE Training
Institute
Course name: Blood Borne Pathogen and Communicable Diseases for Tattoo Artist
Contact person: Jeffrey Godin, Managing Director,
email: jeff@icetraininginstitute.com
Phone # (386) 385-4231
ONLINE COURSE AVAILABLE AT:
www.icetraininginstitute.com
7.
ProTrainings
Institute
Course Name: Bloodborne for Body Art
Contact Person: Vicki Hazzard, Compliance Coordinator
email: compliance@protrainings.com
Phone #: (855) 462-4212
ONLINE COURSE AVAILABLE AT: http://tattoo.probloodborne.com/en/
8.
Pacific Medical
Training
Course Name: Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) for non-medical persons
Contact Person: Deb McGrody
email: debbiem@pacificmedicaltraining.com
Phone #: (215) 808-2691
ONLINE COURSE AVAILABLE AT:
https://pacificmedicaltraining.com/education-nmbbp.html
2
Complete the Tuberculosis and Syphilis Report Form.
Get yourself tested for Tuberculosis and Syphilis. Fill up the Tuberculosis and Syphilis Report Form and get it signed by a Licensed Medical Provider.
You also need to submit a copy of the TB/Syphilis Report Form to the Hawaii State Tattoo Shop where you will be employed.
3
Hepatitis B vaccination status
Provide Valid documentation of a Hepatitis B Virus vaccination status including:
- Provide Hepatitis B Vaccination Record
- Declination Form (Optional): If you choose not to get the Hepatitis B vaccine, you can provide a declination form. Provide a valid reason not getting vaccinated.
Although the Hawaii Department of Health does not mandate getting vaccinated to get Licensed as a Tattoo Artist but it strongly recommends getting it done.
4
Fill out the Tattoo Artist License Application
Print and fill out the license application form. Make sure to include all the relevant personal details mentioned in the form.
5
Pay the fee applicable
Pay the non-refundable application fee of $75.
Make checks payable to STATE OF HAWAII (BANK ACCOUNT NAME AND ADDRESS MUST BE ON CHECK).
6
Submit your Application form
Bring your completed application to your local county health department office. They will review it promptly. If approved, your license will be printed and issued to you on the spot at the health department.
Keeping Your Artist Permit Up-to-Date: Understanding Validity and Renewal
All permits shall expire on January 31 of each year. Application for the renewal of a permit shall be submitted to the department in writing before January 31 of each year. For renewal of a permit, each applicant shall pay a fee of $7.50. If you wait until after it expires, the renewal fee is $75.00.
Keeping your artist permit current is essential for maintaining your legality as a tattoo artist. By staying informed about expiration dates and renewal procedures, you can continue pursuing your passion without any interruptions or legal issues.
Start Your Tattoo Career Today!
Don't Wait to Ink Your Dreams! Become a Licensed Tattoo Artist in Hawaii Today. Follow These Steps to Dive into the Thrilling World of Tattooing. Grab Your Artist License and Unleash Your Talent with Confidence!
Read more about Hawaii's Administrative Rules for Tattoo Artists & Tattoo Shops by Clicking Here. To learn more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Hawaii, please visit the Hawaii Department of Public Health website.
Tattoo Apprenticeship at Ink Different
Ink Different Tattoo School prides itself on offering a comprehensive tattoo apprenticeship program that sets aspiring Tattoo Artists on the path to success. Our program is designed to provide hands-on training, guidance, and support to help our apprentices develop their skills and artistic vision. With experienced Tattoo Artists as mentors, apprentices at Ink Different learn the art of tattooing in a creative and inspiring environment.
Enrolling in a tattoo apprenticeship with Ink Different Tattoos can be highly beneficial for aspiring tattoo artists looking to break into this vibrant industry. Ink Different Tattoos is renowned for its commitment to excellence and its dedication to nurturing emerging talent. Under the guidance of experienced artists, apprentices at Ink Different Tattoos can learn not just the technical skills of tattooing but also gain insights into client interactions, design principles, and studio management. This comprehensive training prepares apprentices not only to create beautiful tattoos but also to thrive in the competitive world of tattooing.
Guaranteed Job Offer
One unique aspect of our apprenticeship program is our guaranteed job offer upon successful completion. We are committed to helping our apprentices transition from apprentices to professional Tattoo Artists, and our job offer ensures that they have a place to begin their careers. This commitment sets us apart from other tattoo schools. It reflects our dedication to supporting the next generation of Tattoo Artists.
Diversity and Inclusion
At Ink Different Tattoo School, we understand the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the tattoo industry. That's why we proudly offer our program in multiple locations across the United States, including Brooklyn, Chicago, Tampa, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale. Our commitment to diversity is also reflected in our bilingual staff, who speak Spanish, ensuring that our apprentices feel welcome and supported regardless of their background.
Submit your art today for enrollment consideration and start your journey toward becoming a professional Tattoo Artist! Call/Text 1-917-227-2842
