How to Become a Licensed Tattoo Artist in New Hampshire
If you have a passion for art and an interest in transforming your creativity into a fulfilling career, becoming a tattoo artist in New Hampshire might be the perfect path for you. The Granite State offers a clear pathway to licensure, ensuring that tattoo artists are well-trained to meet professional and safety standards in the body art industry.
In New Hampshire, aspiring tattoo artists must first complete an apprenticeship under the direct supervision of a licensed body artist. During this apprenticeship, you’ll gain hands-on experience performing permanent body art while learning essential skills such as proper tattooing techniques, client interaction, and health and safety protocols. This training prepares you to meet the state’s requirements for licensure and succeed as a professional tattoo artist.
This guide will provide you with a step-by-step overview of the apprenticeship process, licensing requirements, and tips for starting your career as a tattoo artist in New Hampshire. With dedication and the right training, you can turn your artistic talent into a rewarding profession in this growing industry.
Get Your Tattoo Artist License Today!
Before you start tattooing, you need an Artist License 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 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 New Hampshire?

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 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.
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 New Hampshire?

How to get a Tattoo License in New Hampshire
Step-wise process to become a Tattoo Apprentice in New Hampshire -
1
Complete a Course in Sterilization
Proof of completing a sterilization course that covers the methods and techniques for properly sterilizing instruments and materials used in tattooing.
2
Fill out the Tattoo Apprentice License Application
Fill out the Application Form which requires basic personal information such as your name, address, and date of birth. Form must be LEGIBLE printed and notarized). Provide photocopy of the NH Body Art Practitioner license of the supervisor. NOTE THAT THE SUPERVISOR MUST BE LICENSED FOR AT LEAST 3 YEARS
3
Provide a recent 2x2 passport photograph and ID
Attach a copy of your photo ID (driver’s license or passport) to your application to prove that you are 18 or older along with a recent 2x2 passport photograph.
4
Pay the fees applicable
The application fee is $110 for initial apprentice application. Make checks payable to: Treasurer, State of NH.
5
Submit your Application form
Applications must be mailed or hand delivered to:
Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
121 South Fruit Street, Suite 303
Concord, NH 03301
Step-wise process to become a Tattoo Artist in New Hampshire for New Hampshire Tattoo Apprentice -
1
Complete a Course in Sterilization
Proof of completing a sterilization course that covers the methods and techniques for properly sterilizing instruments and materials used in tattooing.
2
Fill out the Tattoo Apprentice License Application
Fill out the Application Form which requires basic personal information such as your name, address, and date of birth. Form must be LEGIBLE printed and notarized)
3
Provide a recent 2x2 passport photograph and ID
Attach a copy of your photo ID (driver’s license or passport) to your application to prove that you are 18 or older along with a recent 2x2 passport photograph.
4
Pay the fees applicable
The application fee is $110 for initial Practitioner application. Make checks payable to: Treasurer, State of NH.
5
Signed Certification of Apprenticeship
Your tattoo apprenticeship (training) should be a minimum of 1500 hours of training within 12 months (one year) under the direct supervision of the licensed tattoo artist who has agreed to supervise you. You are required to submit A statement signed by your supervising licensee certifying that the apprenticeship requirements have been met.
6
Submit your Application form
Applications must be mailed or hand delivered to:
Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
121 South Fruit Street, Suite 303
Concord, NH 03301
Step-wise process to become a Tattoo Artist in New Hampshire for Out of State Tattoo Artist -
1
Complete a Course in Sterilization
Proof of completing a sterilization course that covers the methods and techniques for properly sterilizing instruments and materials used in tattooing.
2
Fill out the Tattoo Apprentice License Application
Fill out the Application Form which requires basic personal information such as your name, address, and date of birth. Form must be LEGIBLE printed and notarized)
3
Provide a recent 2x2 passport photograph and ID
Attach a copy of your photo ID (driver’s license or passport) to your application to prove that you are 18 or older along with a recent 2x2 passport photograph.
4
Provide Experience Proof
Provide Copies of your out-of-state body art license(s) that show you have been licensed for at least three years; OR
For an out-of-state applicant from another state that does not require licensure, you must include proof of at least - three years of experience practicing the body art classification in which you are seeking licensure, as verified by the following information:
- The name, address, and phone number of the place(s) of employment;
- The months and years worked;
- Copies of business records, tax returns, or pay stubs providing proof of at least 1500 hours of employment per year;
- The owner’s or manager’s name and phone number;
- A signed statement from the owner or manager verifying the employment history; and
- A signed statement from a state official affirming that the state does not require licensure for the practice of body art.
5
Pay the fees applicable
The application fee is $110 for initial Practitioner application. Make checks payable to: Treasurer, State of NH.
6
Submit your Application form
Applications must be mailed or hand delivered to:
Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
121 South Fruit Street, Suite 303
Concord, NH 03301
The executive director will review your tattoo license application and notify you of its legal status within 30 days if you do not meet the tattooing certification requirements as detailed by your health department. If your application is acceptable, the health department will mail your license to the address on your application.
Keeping Your Artist Permit Up-to-Date: Understanding Validity and Renewal
Tattoo licenses in the state of New Hampshire expire on the last day of your birth month in odd-numbered years. Renewing a Body Art license requires a fee of $110.
(For example, if your birthday is August 15th and you obtained your license in 2023, your license would expire on August 31, 2025.)
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 New Hampshire 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 Nevada, please visit the New Hampshire Department of 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.