How to get your license: Tattoo, body piercing, body art, and permanent cosmetic artists

We have a new online service for managing professional and business licenses. Learn how to set up account access and manage your license. If you need help with the new service, please contact your professional licensing program.

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.

What 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.

How to apply

You can apply online or by mail.

Online

Apply online

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