How to get your license: Tattoo, body piercing, body art, and permanent cosmetic artists
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We expect a processing delay for mailed applications and renewals. Renew or apply online for faster processing of your license. Thank you for your patience and we apologize for any inconvenience.
We expect a processing delay for mailed applications and renewals. Renew or apply online for faster processing of your license. Thank you for your patience and we apologize for any inconvenience.
Who needs a license
Anyone who charges a fee to provide one of the following services:
- Implant pigment into the skin using a needle or other instrument. Requires a tattoo artist license.
- Penetrate the skin or mucous membrane to insert an object, such as jewelry, for cosmetic purposes. Requires a body piercing artist license.
- This doesn't include stud-and-clasp ear piercing or health-related procedures performed by a licensed health care worker.
- Intentionally produce scars on the body through branding or scarification. Requires a body art artist license.
- Apply permanent eyeliner, eyebrows, lip liner, lip color, or repigmentation by implanting pigment under the skin. Requires a permanent cosmetic artist license.
Requirements
To get an artist license, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a current and active bloodborne pathogens certificate. To find a bloodborne pathogen training course use your internet search engine to find a local or internet-based blood borne pathogen training providers.
How to apply
Online
You'll need a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) account to apply online.
- If you don't have one, you'll be able to create one before you start.
- For help visit How to set up account access.
By mail
Send the following:
- Completed Body Art, Body Piercing, Tattoo Artist, Permanent Cosmetics License, Renewal or Reinstatement Application (English, Español, Русский, and more)
- Copy of your bloodborne pathogens certificate
- Any supporting documents
- Check or money order for the fee (payable to the Department of Licensing)
- Mail to:
Tattoo, Body Art, Body Piercing Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 35001
Seattle, WA 98124-3401
When will I get my license?
We won't mail your license unless you request a printed copy. Your license is available to print online.
If you applied online
- We'll process your request within 14 business days. It will be available to print online at any time.
- Check your email for notifications about your license.
- See how to self-print your license.
If you applied by mail
- We'll process your request within 45 business days and send a copy of your license to the email address listed on the application.
- You can print your license online at any time. See how to self-print your license
Get a printed license by mail
- To get a printed license when applying by mail, you must send the license print fee with your application.
- To request a printed copy of your license, send us the following information:
- Name
- Mailing address
- Email address
- Phone number
- License type
- License number
- Check or money order for the license print fee, payable to Department of Licensing
- Mail to:
Tattoo, Body Art, Body Piercing Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 35001
Seattle, WA 98124-3401
How long your license is valid
Your license is valid for 1 year after we issue it.
Related information
Email updates
Subscribe to email updates to get the latest rule changes and licensing updates by email.
Questions? Need help?
- Email us: doltattoo@dol.wa.gov
- Call us: 360.664.6660
