As a growing number of states legalize tattooing and body modification, becoming a tattoo artist has become more accessible. In California, the state with the most licensed tattoo artists in America, there are many different ways to become a tattoo artist. Keep reading to find out how to become a tattoo artist in California!
- Take classes at a school or college
There are many schools and colleges that offer courses in tattoo artistry. Some schools offer programs that lead to degrees or certificates in the field while others offer continuing education courses that are only open to students who have already graduated from an accredited program. These programs are typically very expensive but can be very rewarding if you want to learn more about your craft.
- Open your own shop
One way that artists can make a living is by opening their own shops where they sell their work and charge for tattoos as well as other services like piercing and body modification procedures like scarification or branding. Opening up your own shop can be very risky because it requires substantial capital but it can also be very profitable if done correctly.
How To Become A Tattoo Artist In California
California Tattoo Laws: Artists
The Safe Body Art Act of 2011 rewrote most of the previous California tattoo laws and the relevant parts of the state Health and Safety Code, Los Angeles County’s Public Health Department says. Setting minimum standards is meant to reduce the risk of transmitting infectious diseases through tattooing. The act applies to anyone performing tattooing, body-piercing – except ears – branding or applying permanent cosmetics.
Individuals don’t need a tattoo license in California to work in these fields, but they do have to register with a local enforcement agency. You must be at least 18 to register. Requirements include submitting a registration form, a valid government-issued photo ID showing your age, and for your first registration, a 2-inch square passport type photo.
You must also present proof that you’ve been vaccinated against hepatitis B, that you’re immune to it or that you can’t take the vaccine. The state also requires you complete an approved course in Blood-Borne Pathogens Exposure Control Training. The Red Cross says the training teaches how diseases such as hepatitis B are spread, how to prevent exposure and what to do if you’re exposed to an infection.
Tattoo License in California for Studios
A tattoo studio has to meet all the standard local laws on opening a business, Placer County says. That includes a business license, meeting the zoning code and registering a fictitious business name if the studio uses one. Unlike a shoe store or a bookshop, a tattoo shop also has to apply for a public health permit. Part of the process is submitting an Infection Prevention and Control Plan that provides key details:
Your procedures for decontaminating and disinfecting surfaces
Plans for decontaminating and sterilizing reusable instruments
Handling and disposal of sharp wastes
Preventing contamination
You’ll have to undergo an inspection to show your studio is suitably sanitary. Your facility must be clean, free of insects, rats and mice, with adequate lighting and a sink for hand washing. You need a decontamination area for sterilizing equipment, unless your tools are disposable one-use needles.
California Tattoo Laws: Customers
If you want your studio to stay open, you need to follow California tattoo laws regarding clients. You can’t tattoo anyone younger than 18, even if their parents consent. California tattoo laws do allow you to make a body piercing, but not in the genitals or the nipples.
Before you pierce or tattoo anyone, they have to sign an informed consent form. The form describes the procedure and tells them what to expect afterwards. It tells clients that body art is permanent. It also warns your clients that tattoo inks and dyes are not FDA-approved and there could be unknown health consequences. The form also includes a client health questionnaire and provides post-procedure instructions.
