California requires a state-level tattoo artist license. The licensing authority is State/County Dept of Health. The median salary is $59,036 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
California requires a tattoo artist to hold a state license. Create permanent decorative designs on skin using tattoo machines and ink. Licensing is administered by the State/County Dept of Health.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | Apprenticeship (1-3 years) + bloodborne pathogen training |
| Experience Details | Apprenticeship (1-3 years) + bloodborne pathogen training |
California requires passing the California Health and Safety Exam / Bloodborne Pathogen Certification with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $50.
| Exam Name | California Health and Safety Exam / Bloodborne Pathogen Certification |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | Health and Safety Exam / Bloodborne Pathogen Certification |
| Application Fee | $50 |
Getting licensed as a tattoo artist in California takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $50 and renewal fees of $50 every 2 years. Continuing education of 4 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $50 |
| License Renewal | $50 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 4 hours |
Tattoo Artists in California earn a median salary of $59,036, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in California |
| National average | $42,780 |
Yes — California requires a state-level tattoo artist license. Create permanent decorative designs on skin using tattoo machines and ink.
The required exam is the California Health and Safety Exam / Bloodborne Pathogen Certification. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $50.
The median annual salary for tattoo artists in California is $59,036. The national median is $42,780.
California requires 4 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.