Texas Tattoo & Piercing Studio License

Texas state license required for all tattoo and piercing studios, issued by the Department of State Health Services. Requires facility inspection, proof of sterilization equipment, and compliance with detailed sanitation and operational standards.

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What this document covers

Texas requires every tattoo and body piercing studio to obtain a facility license from the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) before opening for business. The licensing process includes a facility application, pre-opening inspection, proof of autoclave or approved sterilization equipment, detailed floor plans showing workstation layout and sterilization areas, and documentation of a licensed biomedical waste disposal service. Licenses must be renewed annually and are non-transferable — a change of location or ownership requires a new license. DSHS inspectors conduct routine and complaint-based inspections and can issue citations, suspend licenses, or order immediate closure for violations. Texas also requires all individual artists and piercers to hold separate practitioner licenses.

Key sections included

DSHS studio license application and fees
Facility inspection requirements and preparation
Floor plan and workstation layout requirements
Sterilization equipment documentation (autoclave specifications)
Biomedical waste disposal service contract
Annual license renewal procedures
Change of ownership or location requirements
Inspection compliance and citation response procedures

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get a Texas studio license?

DSHS typically processes applications within 30-60 days after receiving a complete application. A pre-opening inspection must be passed before the license is issued. Plan for at least 60-90 days from application to opening.

Can I operate while my license renewal is pending?

If you submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration and your existing license has not been suspended or revoked, you may continue operating while the renewal is processed.

Does my studio license cover all artists working there?

No. The studio license covers the facility. Each individual tattoo artist and body piercer must hold their own separate DSHS practitioner license.

Document details

State: Texas
Legal basis: Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 146; 25 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §229.401-§229.417
Enforced by: Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)
Penalty for absence: Operating without a DSHS studio license: Class A misdemeanor — fine up to $4,000 and/or up to 1 year in county jail per Health & Safety Code §146.012. Each day of unlicensed operation is a separate offense. DSHS can also seek injunctive relief to close the facility.
Category: Licensing & Permits

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