Frequently asked questions: Tattoos, body piercing, and body art
Can I accept payment from electronic benefit (EBT) cards for products or services?
No. Effective January 1, 2012, you can’t accept Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, or cash obtained from an ATM through the use of EBT cards, in payment for any tattoo, body piercing, or body art service or product you provide. If your shop has ATM or point-of-sale machines located on the premises, please take the necessary steps to disable those machines from accepting EBT cards. We’re required to suspend your license if you don’t comply with this law. We can reinstate your license once your business disables these ATM and point-of-sale machines.
- For more information: Read the law, RCW 74.08.580.
- If you have questions: Contact us at 360-664-6660 or plssunit@dol.wa.gov.
Why are body piercing, tattooing, and body art being regulated?
The legislature found these practices involve invasive procedures that use needles, sharps, instruments, and jewelry which may be dangerous when improperly sterilized. Improper sterilization presents a risk of infecting clients with blood-borne pathogens (HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, etc.). The legislature determined it was in the best interest of the public health, safety, and welfare to establish requirements for the commercial practice of these activities, and passed RCW 18.300: Body art, body piercing, and tattoing.
What practices need to be licensed?
Tattoo artists, body art artists, body piercers, and permanent cosmetics artist must have a license. Plus, any location where these services are provided must have a shop, mobile unit, or event license.
Will the Department of Licensing inspect all shops?
The law requires all shops to have an inspection. We’ll inspect all shops on a 2-year rotation. In addition, we’ll respond to all written complaints with an investigation or more frequent inspections.
