The popularity of tattoos is growing, and the art of tattooing is now a lucrative business. If you love to draw, like people and you like “ink,” take the plunge and become a licensed tattoo artist.

To obtain a Tattoo License an individual must successfully complete a three hour Infection Control Course and an Infection Control Examination conducted by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s (DOHMH) Health Academy.

Submission of an application for the Tattoo Artist License and registration for the Infection Control Course occur at the same time. The license will be mailed to the specific person named in the application after he or she has taken the course and passed the written examination. In NYC, you should receive your license four to six weeks after successfully completing the Infection Control Course. The license is not transferable to another person or entity.

Applicants who do not pass the examination the first time will be allowed to immediately register for the next available course and examination at the Health Academy at no additional cost. Applicants who do not pass the examination after the second attempt will be required to return to the DCA Licensing Center to register for another course and pay the Infection Control Course fee again.

In order to to Apply for this license you will need the following:

1. A valid Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN).

2. A valid government issued photo ID of the applicant (e.g., driver’s license, passport).

3. Completion of the Infection Control Course for Tattoo Artists.