How to Become a Licensed Tattoo Artist in Montana
Becoming a licensed tattoo artist in Montana involves navigating specific regulations designed to ensure safety and professionalism in the body art industry. In the state, all tattoos must be performed in licensed body art establishments, which means that both the shop and its owner must obtain the appropriate licenses.
If you are a tattoo artist working for a licensed shop owner, you are not required to have an individual license. However, it’s crucial to understand that if there are any changes to the shop's location or ownership, a new license must be applied for to continue operations legally.
Interestingly, Yellowstone County stands out as the only location in Montana that allows individual tattoo artists to obtain their own licenses. This presents a unique opportunity for artists seeking greater autonomy in their careers. To successfully navigate the licensing process in Montana, aspiring tattoo artists should familiarize themselves with the local regulations, health and safety standards, and the necessary documentation required by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.
Get Your Tattoo Artist License Today!
Before you start tattooing in Yellowstone county, you need an Artist Permit from the Department. 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 Yellowstone, Montana?
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 Montana:
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.
First Aid Training
This course dives into the fundamental concepts of emergency care vital for any tattoo artist's toolkit. Upon completion you would receive a certificate, validating proficiency in handling emergencies effectively. Key topics include:
- managing shock, fainting, seizures, and uncontrolled bleeding;
- mastering wound dressing and bandaging techniques;
- infection prevention and care;
- safe protocols for transporting injured individuals;
- and essential emergency contact numbers for paramedics, police, and fire services.
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 Montana?

Step-wise process to become a Licensed Tattoo Artist in Maine in 2024
1
Complete a Bloodborne Pathogen Course
Provide proof of attending a OSHA compliant bloodborne pathogen course by attaching a copy of your certificate to your application. You can opt for Bloodborne Pathogen Couse from American Red Cross
2
Fill out the Tattoo Artist License Application
Print and fill out the Tattoo Artist Plan Review Application. A Plan Review must be completed for the establishment and for each artist.
The application must demonstrate how the applicant will meet the requirements of the rule and include the following:
- A layout of the facility showing the procedure areas, clean rooms, waiting areas, toilet rooms, and hand washing stations.
- Specifications for any autoclave that may be used.
- Client consent forms, client record forms, and written aftercare instructions.
- An exposure control plan.
3
Provide a Copy of a State ID
Attach a copy of your photo ID (driver’s license or passport) to your application.
5
Complete the Sanitization Quiz
Pass the Sanitation quiz conducted by Department of Health & Human Services, Montana.
Access the Quiz (password – piercing)
6
Pay the fees applicable
Permits must be renewed annually. Check you county for any variations or additional requirement.
7
Submit your Application form
Submit the required documents and payment to
RiverStone Health,
123 South 27th Street,
Billings MT 59101
OR
environmental.hea@riverstonehealth.org
Once your application is approved, the Health Inspector will notify the Licensing Clerk to issue your tattoo artist license. If there are no outstanding issues or delays, you can expect to receive your official license within one week. This process ensures that licensed tattoo artists in Montana are compliant with health and safety regulations, allowing you to legally practice your craft and open up new career opportunities in the tattoo industry.
Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!
Licenses expire each year on December 31 and must be renewed. To renew your license, complete a License Renewal Application and submit the required documents and payment to RiverStone Health OR environmental.hea@riverstonehealth.org. To avoid a late fee, licenses must be renewed no later than December 31.
Start Your Tattoo Career Today!
Don't Wait to Ink Your Dreams! Become a Licensed Tattoo Artist in Montana Today. Follow These Steps to Dive into the Thrilling World of Body Art. Grab Your Artist Permit and Unleash Your Talent with Confidence!
To learn more about legislation relating to tattooing or tattoo schools in Montana, please visit the Montana Department of Health and Human Science website.
Submit your art today and start your journey toward becoming a professional Tattoo Artist! Call/Text 1-917-227-2842

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.