Tattoo laws are set by states, counties and cities and can change. This guide explains the general picture and is not legal advice. Always confirm the current rules with your state or local health department or licensing authority.
There is no single federal tattoo law in the United States. Regulation is left to states, and in many places to counties or cities. That means the minimum age, the documents you must show, and the licensing of shops and artists can differ depending on where you live – and even within the same state.
Minimum age
Most states set the minimum age for getting a tattoo at 18. Some states allow minors to be tattooed with the written consent, and sometimes the presence, of a parent or legal guardian. Others do not allow tattooing of minors at all, and a few leave the rules to local governments. Because this varies, check the rules for the state and county where you plan to get tattooed.
What you may need to show
- A valid government-issued photo ID that shows your date of birth.
- For minors where allowed: proof of the parent or guardian's identity and relationship, and signed consent forms.
- A signed release form, in which you confirm that you are not intoxicated and that you have been informed about health risks and aftercare.
Shops can turn you away if documents are missing, and they should. A shop that waves rules aside is not one you want to trust with your skin.
Shop and artist licensing
Many jurisdictions require tattoo shops to hold a permit or license and to pass health inspections, and require artists to be licensed or registered, often with training in bloodborne pathogens and sterilization. The details – who issues the license, what training is required, how inspections work – depend on the state or county. In some areas shops are inspected regularly and results are public; in others, rules are less detailed.
As a customer, you can:
- Ask the shop which license or permit it holds and where it is displayed.
- Check with your state or county health department, which often has a list of licensed shops or inspection information.
- Follow the other steps in our guide to choosing a tattoo shop.
Piercings, removal and other services
Piercing and cosmetic or permanent make-up rules can differ from tattoo rules. Laser tattoo removal may fall under medical or cosmetic regulations. See our overview of tattoo removal options and check local rules before booking.
Health and safety standards
Even where licensing rules are loose, a professional studio should follow strict hygiene: single-use needles opened in front of you, gloves, cleaned and covered surfaces, proper disposal of sharps, and sterilization of reusable equipment. Read our aftercare guide to see how to care for the tattoo once you leave.
How to check your local rules
- Search for your state or county health department and look for "body art" or "tattoo" regulations.
- Look at the website of the licensing board if your state has one.
- Ask the shop – and compare the answer with the official source.
When you are ready, use the tattoo shop directory to find studios in your state.
Why rules differ so much
Tattooing used to be regulated lightly, and many states adopted rules in response to health concerns about bloodborne diseases and infections. Because the United States leaves this to states and local governments, each one decided separately how strict to be. Some states have detailed statewide codes with licenses, inspections and training requirements. Others set only basic age rules and let counties or cities decide the rest. This patchwork is why a rule that is normal in one place can be unknown a few miles across a county line.
What licensing typically covers
Where licensing exists, it generally covers some or all of the following. The exact requirements depend on your location and can change.
- The shop (facility). A permit to operate, based on a health inspection of the space: surfaces, sinks, waste handling, sterilization equipment, and separation of tattooing areas.
- The artist. A license or registration, often requiring proof of training in preventing disease transmission and sometimes an apprenticeship or exam.
- Infection control. Rules for single-use needles, glove use, sterilization of reusable instruments, disposal of sharps and cleaning of work areas.
- Records. Many places require shops to keep client consent forms and records for a set period.
Guest artists, home studios and conventions
Some places have special rules for guest artists who work temporarily at another shop, for artists at conventions, or for people who tattoo from home. Home-based tattooing may be restricted or require special permits in some areas and be banned in others. If you are considering an independent artist who works in a private studio, check that they are licensed where they work, ask to see the permit and look at the studio. A private setting is fine; an unlicensed one is not.
What to do if you are underage or accompanying a minor
If you are under the legal age, check your state and county rules before approaching a shop. Where parental consent is allowed, expect to bring the parent or guardian along with ID, proof of relationship and signed forms, and expect that the shop may refuse the request anyway. Shops are free to set a higher minimum age than the law requires. If you are a parent, ask the shop for a consultation without pressure and make sure you understand the permanence of the decision.
Rules for piercings, permanent make-up and removal
Body piercing, microblading, permanent make-up and laser tattoo removal may each have their own rules, or fall under different authorities such as medical or cosmetology boards. Do not assume that a tattoo license covers these services. Ask the provider which license they hold for the specific service, and check with the relevant board or health department.
Reporting problems
If you believe a shop is unlicensed or unsafe, or if you developed a serious reaction after a tattoo, contact your local health department. A doctor can help with medical concerns. Keep records such as receipts, photos and the name of the shop. Our directory lists businesses based on public information and does not verify licenses, so it is always your decision to confirm the rules and the shop's status yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Can a 17-year-old get a tattoo?
It depends on the state or county. In some places it is allowed with parental consent, in others it is not. Check your local rules.
Can I get tattooed in another state?
Yes, but the rules of that state apply, including age and ID requirements.
Does a shop need a license?
Many states and local governments require licenses or permits, but requirements vary. Ask the shop and check with your health department.
Where can I report a problem?
Your local or state health department is usually the right place to report concerns about hygiene or licensing.
Does a license mean a shop is good?
A license shows that a shop meets certain legal requirements, but it does not tell you about artistic skill. Combine licensing checks with portfolio review and a visit.
Can a tattoo shop refuse service?
Yes. Shops may refuse clients for reasons such as missing ID, intoxication, health concerns or disagreement over the design.
What if I travel to get tattooed?
The rules of the place where you get tattooed apply. Bring a valid photo ID and check local requirements in advance.
