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How to get my tattoo license in Texas: Clear 2026 DSHS Checklist

Oct 25, 2026 | bloodbornepathogens

How to get my tattoo license in Texas
How to get my tattoo license in Texas is a structured process regulated by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to ensure that all body art professionals maintain the highest standards of public safety. The state of Texas requires every tattoo artist to obtain an individual practitioner license before performing any procedures on the public. This regulatory oversight is designed to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and ensure that artists are well-versed in the latest sanitation and sterilization protocols required for a professional studio environment.The foundational requirement for your application is the completion of an OSHA-compliant Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) training course. This certification must be obtained before you submit your formal paperwork to the DSHS, as it serves as primary evidence of your competency in infection control. By prioritizing your safety education through a recognized provider like ACE BBP, you demonstrate a commitment to professional excellence and legal compliance. Once you have your BBP certificate, you can proceed with the state application and fee submission.


Watch the How to get my tattoo license in Texas official training video and complete certification guide

Click to watch the full training video on YouTube.

 

To successfully navigate the licensing process, you must first understand that the state views safety as the most critical component of your craft. The DSHS requires all tattoo artists to present proof of training that covers the transmission, prevention, and control of bloodborne diseases. Our ACE BBP course is specifically tailored to meet these requirements, providing a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything from cross-contamination to proper waste disposal. Currently, the course is available for a standard price of $12.95, but aspiring Texas artists can use the coupon code **ace20** at checkout to receive their certification for only $8.00.

Step-by-Step DSHS Licensing Checklist

Once you have completed your training, the next step in the process involves the formal submission of documents. You will need to complete the DSHS Tattoo Artist License Application, which requires your personal information, the name of the licensed studio where you will be working, and your BBP certification details. It is important to note that you cannot hold an artist license in Texas without being affiliated with a licensed tattoo studio. After filling out the application, you must include the state-mandated licensing fee. Once submitted, the DSHS will review your materials to ensure your training meets the OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030 standards.

Completing Your Bloodborne Pathogens Certification

The most efficient way to handle the educational portion of your license is through our online platform. One of the greatest advantages of using ACE BBP is the instant PDF download available immediately after you pass the course quiz. There is no waiting for a certificate to arrive in the mail; you can download, print, and attach your credentials to your DSHS application the same day you start. This speed is essential for artists who are ready to begin their careers or those who need to renew an expiring license quickly to avoid lapses in their professional standing.

Maintaining Compliance and Annual Renewals

After receiving your Texas tattoo license, you must remain diligent about your ongoing education. While the state license may have a multi-year validity, OSHA federal guidelines require that Bloodborne Pathogens training be refreshed every 12 months. Maintaining an updated BBP certificate is a requirement for the annual safety inspections conducted by local health departments. Keeping your certificate current via ACE BBP ensures that you are always prepared for an inspection and that your studio remains a safe environment for both you and your clients.

Continuing Education FAQ

Q: Is this Bloodborne Pathogens training OSHA compliant for my tattoo license?
A: Yes. ACE Bloodborne Pathogens training is fully compliant with federal OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030 standards. Our certification is accepted nationwide for tattoo artists, body piercers, and permanent makeup (PMU) professionals who need to meet annual state health department and infection control requirements for initial licensing and renewals.

Q: How long does it take to get my BBP certificate from ACE training?
A: You can receive your BBP certificate instantly. Most students complete the online course and pass the 10-question quiz in under two hours. Immediately after passing, a high-quality PDF certificate is available for instant download, allowing you to submit proof of training to your local licensing agency the same day.

Q: How can I get a discount on my Bloodborne Pathogens certification?
A: You can obtain your 2026 BBP certification for only $8.00 by using the coupon code ACE20 at checkout. We strive to keep safety training affordable for independent artists and shop owners while maintaining the highest level of OSHA-compliant instruction and professional certification standards in the industry.

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