Ace's Let's Talk About It

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

Oct 26, 2026 | bloodbornepathogens

How To Get My Tattoo License In Texas
How To Get My Tattoo License In Texas is a common question for aspiring artists looking to enter the professional body art industry in the Lone Star State. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) oversees the regulation of tattoo studios and artists, ensuring that every professional adheres to strict infection control and public health standards. Before you can legally pick up a machine and start working on clients, you must navigate a specific sequence of administrative and educational requirements designed to protect both the artist and the public.The licensing process is straightforward but requires meticulous attention to detail. The very first step for any prospective artist is completing an OSHA-compliant Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) training course. This certification is the foundation of your professional credentials, proving you understand the risks of cross-contamination and the necessary sterilization protocols. ACE Bloodborne Pathogens Training provides an affordable, industry-recognized solution for Texas artists ready to begin their career journey today.


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.

 

Understanding DSHS Requirements for Texas Artists

To obtain your artist license, you must first ensure you are working within a facility that holds a valid Texas Tattoo Studio License. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) does not issue individual “artist licenses” in the traditional sense; instead, artists are registered through their studio or must provide proof of training to the health department during inspections. The cornerstone of this requirement is a certificate of completion from an approved Bloodborne Pathogens course. This training must cover the specific hazards associated with needles, blood-to-blood contact, and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as mandated by federal OSHA standards.

Completing Your OSHA-Compliant Bloodborne Pathogens Course

Step number one in your checklist is securing your certification. ACE Bloodborne Pathogens Training offers a fully online, 2026-compliant course designed specifically for body art professionals. The course is normally priced at $12.95, making it an accessible option for those just starting out. However, Texas artists can use the tattoo coupon code ace20 at checkout to get certified for just $8.00. The curriculum is streamlined to respect your time, featuring a 10-question quiz that leads to an instant PDF download upon completion. This allows you to print your certificate and present it to your studio manager or state inspector immediately.

Submitting Your Application and Maintaining Compliance

Once you have your BBP certificate in hand, you must maintain a copy at your place of business. If you are opening your own studio, you will need to submit a formal application to the DSHS along with the required licensing fees. For individual artists, staying compliant means renewing your Bloodborne Pathogens training annually. Because Texas health inspectors look for up-to-date documentation, the instant access provided by ACE ensures you never have a lapse in your credentials. By following this clear DSHS checklist, you can focus on your art while staying fully compliant with state and federal safety laws.

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.

Official Compliance & Licensing:

View all our courses

AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA WV WI WY DC