Embarking on the journey to become a tattoo artist in Illinois is a thrilling adventure filled with creativity, skill-building, and personal growth. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Illinois boasts a vibrant tattoo culture and a rich tapestry of artistic expression.
From understanding state regulations to mastering the art of tattooing and navigating the licensing process, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to embark on a successful career as a tattoo artist in Illinois.
While the state doesn't require a license for tattoo artists, there are essential regulations to ensure safety and professionalism. Aspiring tattoo artists must understand that tattooing outside a registered shop designated by the Illinois Department of Public Health is unlawful. These registered shops are required to possess a current Certificate of Registration.
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Since July 1, 2007, the Tattoo and Body Piercing Establishment Registration Act (410 ILCS 54) has been shaping the landscape of body art regulation in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Public Health's Body Art Code (77 Ill. Adm. Code 797) became effective December 26, 2008. Together, they establish standards for conducting body art procedures, outline inspection and registration processes for body art establishments, and define fee requirements.
Under these regulations, all establishments offering body art services, including tattooing, piercing, branding, or scarification, must register with the Department of Public Health.
Upon submission of a completed registration application, establishments undergo inspections to ensure compliance with the program. Renewal inspections are conducted periodically to maintain standards. Additionally, Certified Local Health Departments may collaborate with the Department to conduct inspections within their jurisdiction.
Under Section 15 of the Tattoo and Body Piercing Establishment Registration Act, only Operators are legally permitted to apply for body art registration certificates. Operator themselves must obtain and maintain their own registration and be responsible for the functions of their own business at the address.
Let's dive into the essential requirements set forth by the Illinois Department of Public Health for tattoo shops and artists.
In Illinois, the tattoo artist's permit isn't with the Department of Health; rather, it's the location that holds the individual license. The artist is required to provide proof of education including a blood-borne pathogen training that meets OSHA standards. The training is not required to be completed in Illinois. The establishment owner (or registration holder) is responsible for determining whether the artist is proficient in doing the job they will have at the studio and whether to allow them to work under the owner’s registration certificate for the location.
Print and complete the Body Art Facility Permit Application. Make sure to provide as much details as you can as it would streamline the review process.
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Along with this application, you MUST attach the following documents - Operational Procedures, Establishment Floor Plan, and Aftercare Instructions.
You can check Appendix A in the Form for detailed requirements.
Submit a registration fee of $500.00 US dollars for the establishment and one workstation. An additional $50.00 US dollars is needed for each additional workstation (over one). The registration or permit fee is due at the time of application submission. This is a non-refundable fee. Checks or money orders should be made out to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Refer to the pdf to calculate your Body Art Establishment fee.
Mail this completed application and fee to:
Illinois Department of Public Health
Division of Environmental Health
525 W. Jefferson Street (Floor 3)
Springfield, IL. 62761
The application and review process from when we receive the application to when you should have the inspector contact you to set up the inspection is 4 to 6 weeks.
Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!
Don't Wait to Ink Your Dreams! Follow These Steps to Dive into the Thrilling World of Body Art. Start by working in a Licensed Tattoo Studio in Illinois approved by the Department of Public Health.
To learn more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Illinois, please visit the Illinois Department of Public Health website or email your queries to dph.bodyart@illinois.gov
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.
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.
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.