For those practicing the art of tattooing in the Sunshine State, understanding Florida’s specific regulations is crucial. Whether you’re skilled in conventional tattooing, cosmetic enhancements like permanent makeup and microblading, or are an apprentice honing your craft, Florida law mandates a tattoo artist license. This requirement extends to artists licensed outside of Florida who wish to practice within the state.
Who Needs a Florida Tattoo Artist License?
Florida law is clear on who requires a tattoo artist license. You need a license if you are:
- Performing Conventional Tattoos: Any individual who tattoos the body of another person using traditional methods.
- Practicing Cosmetic Tattooing: This includes permanent makeup, microblading, and micropigmentation, all of which fall under the umbrella of regulated tattoo practices in Florida.
- Tattooing as an Apprentice: Even if you are in training, if you are tattooing other individuals as part of your apprenticeship, you are required to have a license.
- Licensed Tattoo Artists from Out of State: A license from another state or jurisdiction does not automatically permit you to tattoo in Florida. You will need to either obtain a Florida Tattoo Artist License or register as a guest tattoo artist (explained further below).
Florida Tattoo Artist License Requirements
To become a licensed tattoo artist in Florida, you must meet several key requirements. These ensure that all licensed artists operate safely and professionally. The requirements include:
- Completed Application: You must complete the official Application for Tattoo Artist License. This application requires detailed personal information and must be accurately filled out.
- Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of $60 is required. It’s important to note that your local county health department may also charge an additional fee, so it’s advisable to check with them directly.
- Licensed Tattoo Establishment Affiliation: Your application must include the name of a licensed tattoo establishment in Florida where you will be working or intend to work. You cannot be licensed as an independent tattoo artist without affiliation to a licensed establishment.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for a tattoo artist license in Florida.
- Government-Issued Photo ID: You must provide a copy of a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to verify your identity and age.
- Bloodborne Pathogen and Communicable Diseases Course: Proof of completion of a required bloodborne pathogen and communicable diseases course is mandatory. This course must be specifically designed for tattoo artists and ensure a minimum passing score of 70%. This requirement is in place to protect both artists and clients from health risks associated with tattooing.
Before you submit your application, it is essential to contact your local county health department for the most up-to-date information regarding fees and the correct mailing address for submissions. Health department contact information can be found on the Florida Department of Health website.
Application Submission Process
Submitting your application correctly is vital for a smooth licensing process. Follow these steps:
- Submit to Local County Health Department: Send your completed application, along with all required documents and fees, to the local county health department in the county where you reside.
- Payment Methods: Payment can typically be made by personal check, money order, or credit card. Cash is generally not recommended to be sent through the mail.
- Confirm Payment Details: Contact your local county health department directly to confirm accepted payment methods and any specific payment instructions they may have.
Tattoo Artist License Renewals
Maintaining your Florida Tattoo Artist License requires timely renewal. The renewal process is straightforward:
- Renewal Fee: Submit a $60 renewal fee to your local county health department. Ensure you submit the renewal to the health department in the county where you currently reside.
Reactivating an Expired Tattoo Artist License
If your Florida Tattoo Artist License has expired, you will need to reactivate it. To do so, submit the required reactivation application and fees to your local county health department. Contact your local health department for specific reactivation procedures and any potential additional requirements.
Guest Tattoo Artist Registration in Florida
For tattoo artists who are licensed in another jurisdiction outside of Florida and wish to work temporarily in Florida, a Guest Tattoo Artist Registration is available. This registration allows licensed out-of-state artists to practice legally in Florida for a limited period.
To qualify for guest registration, you must:
- Hold an Active Out-of-State License: You must possess a current and valid tattoo artist license, registration, or certification from a jurisdiction outside of Florida.
- Meet Training Requirements: You must have completed a Bloodborne Pathogen and Communicable Diseases training that is comparable to or exceeds the standards set by Rule 64E-28.006, Florida Administrative Code.
- Age Requirement: Be at least 18 years of age.
- Provide Identification: Submit a copy of a government-issued photo ID.
- Proof of Out-of-State License: Provide proof of your active tattoo artist license, registration, or certification from your home jurisdiction.
The Guest Tattoo Artist Registration Guide provides comprehensive assistance through the registration process.
Important Note: Guest registrations are valid for a maximum of 14 consecutive days within Florida. If you intend to tattoo in Florida for longer than this period, you must apply for a full Florida Tattoo Artist License.
If your state does not require tattoo artist licensing, registration, or certification, you are not eligible for guest registration. In this case, you must apply for a standard Florida Tattoo Artist License to legally practice tattooing in Florida.
For further information and answers to common questions, refer to the Tattoo Licenses: Frequently Asked Questions section provided by the Florida Department of Health. Always ensure you are operating within Florida’s legal framework for tattooing to maintain professional standards and client safety.
