How to Become a Licensed Tattoo Artist in NYC
The popularity of tattoos is growing, and the art of tattooing is now a money making business. If you love to draw, like people and you like “ink,” take the plunge and become a licensed tattoo artist. Imagine making any where between $200-$1,000 each day!
To obtain a Tattoo License an individual must successfully complete a three hour Infection Control Course and an Infection Control Examination conducted twice a month by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s (DOHMH) Health Academy. Located at the following address:
The Health Academy
East Harlem Multi-Service Center
413 East 120 Street, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10035
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.
NOTE: Your license can be denied if you’ve been convicted of the criminal tattooing of a minor in the year before applying.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.
The Infection Control Course Study Manual includes the material covered in the course and on which the applicant will be tested in the final written examination.
Study this work book to complete the Course : Infection Control Course Study ManualOnce granted, the tattoo license is valid for two years. Renewal applications can also be submitted by a person other than the individual applicant, as long as the person submitting the application has a valid Granting Authority to Act Form signed by the applicant for the Tattoo License. The person submitting the application on the applicant’s behalf must show a form of accepted photo identification.
This page gives general information only. To start or run your business, you may need more information about City, State and Federal laws. If you do not comply with all laws and rules you may have to pay fines and you may lose your licenses or permits. This loss may be temporary (suspension) or permanent (revocation). You may also be subject to other penalties allowed by law. This information is not legal advice. You can only obtain legal advice from a lawyer.If you are interested in applying for your tattoo license contact our office.
For more information call us at 646.226.1921