From the historic shops in the Heights and Montrose to the bustling studios in Westheimer and EaDo, Houston is home to some of the most talented tattoo artists in Texas. But operating in the largest city in the state comes with strict oversight.

Between the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Houston Health Department, staying compliant can feel like a full-time job. Whether you are a studio owner facing an annual inspection or an apprentice just starting out, one requirement is non-negotiable: Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) Certification.

The “Space City” Standard for Safety

While the State of Texas issues the primary Tattoo Studio License (requiring a hefty ~$900 fee), local enforcement often falls to city inspectors who check for day-to-day compliance.

In Houston, inspectors are looking for proof that every artist in the building understands “Universal Precautions.” If you are working in Harris County, you must have a valid BBP certificate on file that proves you know how to handle:

• Sharps Disposal: Proper use of biohazard containers for needles.

• Cross-Contamination: Preventing pigment and spray bottle contamination.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Correct glove usage and hand hygiene.

Sanitized tattoo studio workstation displaying a digital ACE Bloodborne Pathogens Training certificate on a tablet, representing OSHA-compliant online certification for body art professionals

Why Houston Artists Choose ACE

We know you have choices. You could take a generic medical course designed for dental hygienists, or you could choose the training built specifically for the body art industry.

ACE Bloodborne Pathogens Training is the preferred choice for Houston artists because:

1. It’s Relevant: We don’t waste your time with hospital protocols. We focus on tattoo machines, grip barriers, and studio sanitation.

2. It’s Fast: Houston traffic is bad enough; don’t waste time driving to a classroom. Finish our video course on your phone in under 2 hours.

3. It’s Accepted: Our curriculum meets OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.1030, satisfying the training requirements for state and local inspections.

    

Don’t Risk a Fine (or a Shutdown)

Houston Health Department inspectors conduct routine and complaint-based inspections. If a clipboard-wielding official walks into your shop on Washington Ave today, are you ready?

If even one artist has an expired certificate, your shop could face citations. For less than the price of a decent lunch in Midtown, you can protect your license and your reputation.

Get Certified & Get Back to Work

• Cost: Shop bundles available (or individual licenses starting at $12.95).

• Format: 100% Online, Self-Paced.

   

• Guarantee: If the Health Department rejects it, we refund you.

Ready to renew? 👉 [Start Your Houston BBP Course Now]

FAQ Section 

Q: Does the City of Houston require tattoo artists to have a specific license? A: The State of Texas requires the studio to hold a license from the Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Individual artists are not licensed by the state, but they must maintain an active, OSHA-compliant Bloodborne Pathogens certificate on file at the studio to legally work in Houston.

Q: How much does a tattoo license cost in Houston? A: The Texas DSHS Tattoo Studio License fee is approximately $927 for the initial application. Additionally, the City of Houston charges various administrative fees (approx. $33) for business permits. Individual Bloodborne Pathogens training from ACE costs between $10–$15 depending on current promotions.

Q: Is online BBP training accepted in Harris County? A: Yes. Harris County and the Houston Health Department accept online Bloodborne Pathogens training provided it meets the OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030 federal standard. ACE Bloodborne Pathogens Training is fully compliant with this standard.

Q: Can I take the BBP course on my phone? A: Yes. The ACE Bloodborne Pathogens course is mobile-optimized, allowing Houston artists to complete their training on a smartphone or tablet in about 2 hours.

Setting the Bar High for Infection Control

At the heart of bloodborne pathogen training lies a strong emphasis on infection control, a critical component in maintaining exemplary cleanliness standards within tattoo studios. The training covers vital topics such as hand hygiene, meticulous tool sterilization, and the safe disposal of materials, all of which ensure optimal hygiene throughout the tattooing process. These rigorous practices significantly enhance client satisfaction by fostering an environment of trust and safety. Additionally, adhering to high infection control standards bolsters the artist’s reputation, further contributing to their success and standing within the competitive tattoo industry. By continuously setting the bar high for infection control, artists reaffirm their commitment to quality and client well-being, positioning themselves as leaders in the field.

Ready to get started? Visit ACE Bloodborne Pathogen Training  or ACE Training Platforms today and take the next step in your career!

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