Texas Individual Artist & Piercer License

Individual practitioner license required by Texas DSHS for every tattoo artist and body piercer. Separate from the studio facility license. Requires documented training, bloodborne pathogen certification, and first aid/CPR.

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What this document covers

Texas requires every individual who performs tattooing or body piercing to hold a personal practitioner license issued by the Department of State Health Services, separate from the studio facility license. Application requirements include documentation of training or apprenticeship experience (minimum hours vary), completion of a bloodborne pathogen training course, current first aid and CPR certification, and proof of identity. Licenses are issued to the individual, not the studio, and practitioners must display their license at their workstation. Guest artists from out of state must obtain a Texas temporary license before performing any procedures. Apprentices must be registered with DSHS and work under the direct supervision of a licensed practitioner.

Key sections included

DSHS tattoo artist license application and requirements
DSHS body piercer license application and requirements
Training and apprenticeship documentation
Bloodborne pathogen training certification
First aid and CPR certification requirements
Guest artist temporary license procedures
Apprentice registration and supervision requirements
License renewal and continuing education

Frequently asked questions

Can a guest artist from California work at my Texas studio?

Not without a Texas temporary license from DSHS. Out-of-state practitioners must apply for a temporary practitioner license before performing any tattooing or piercing in Texas, even for a single-day guest spot.

What training hours does Texas require for a tattoo artist license?

Texas requires documented training in sterilization, sanitation, bloodborne pathogens, and practical tattooing skills. The specific hour requirements are outlined in 25 TAC §229.403. Most applicants complete an apprenticeship under a licensed practitioner.

Can my apprentice tattoo clients?

Apprentices registered with DSHS may perform tattoos only under the direct, on-premises supervision of a licensed tattoo artist. The supervising artist must be physically present in the studio and available to intervene. Unsupervised work by an apprentice is illegal.

Document details

State: Texas
Legal basis: Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 146; 25 TAC §229.403 (Tattoo Artist License); 25 TAC §229.405 (Body Piercer License)
Enforced by: Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)
Penalty for absence: Performing tattooing or piercing without a DSHS practitioner license: Class A misdemeanor — fine up to $4,000 and/or up to 1 year in county jail. Studio owners who allow unlicensed practitioners to work face the same penalties.
Category: Licensing & Permits

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