Apply For or Renew a Tattoo Artist Permit

• Applying or renewing online is the fastest way to obtain your permit.

Required Documents - Tattoo Artist Applications

The following documents must be submitted with your application:

• Government proof of age document showing you are at least 18 years old.
  • If your present name is different than the name on your ID, submit a proof of name change document such as a copy of a marriage license.
• American Red Cross or equivalent first aid training.  
  • The training document must not be expired.
  • CPR/AED-only training cannot be accepted.  The training must specify that it includes first aid training.
• American Red Cross or equivalent bloodborne pathogens training 
  • The training document must not be expired.
• Supplemental court documentation for any Yes answers (if applicable).

Effective July 1, 2023, SF 219 was approved and removed the requirement to submit a high school diploma, GED, or diploma from an accredited college.

Required Documents - Tattoo Artist Renewal and Reinstatement

The following documents must be submitted with a tattoo artist renewal/reinstatement:

• American Red Cross or equivalent first aid training.  (Training document must not be expired)
  • CPR/AED-only training cannot be accepted.  The training must specify that it includes first aid training.
• American Red Cross or equivalent bloodborne pathogens training (Training document must not be expired).
• Supplemental court documentation for any Yes answers (if applicable).

The applicant is responsible for submitting all training documentation each year upon renewal.  The department does not pull up documentation from previous years' submissions for review.

Tattoo Artist Reinstatements

• Tattoo artist permits that have lapsed for more than 90 days are automatically deactivated and are required to be reinstated.
• Reinstatements can be done at any time after the permit is deactivated.
• Reinstatements are required to include a $25 reinstatement fee in addition to the $75 renewal fee.
• Reinstating tattoo artist applicants are required to affirm whether they have been tattooing in the State of Iowa since their permit has lapsed. 
  • Applicants who have been tattooing in the State of Iowa must submit a late fee of $25 for each month their permit has lapsed.
  • The Department may follow up with the applicant to verify the accuracy of this statement.

Tattoo Artist Training

Tattoo artists are required to maintain current bloodborne pathogens and first aid training.

The department will accept a scan, screenshot, or clear photograph of the training certificates.

Acceptable certificates must show your name, type of training (bloodborne pathogens or first aid), and the expiration date.  

A screenshot of the training payment confirmation or saying the course has been completed is not acceptable.  The department needs the actual certificate. Expired certificates will not be accepted.

The curriculum for a CPR/AED training course is different from first aid training and not acceptable as a first aid course. Training that specifies CPR/AED and first aid is acceptable.

Note: The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing does not necessarily endorse the American Red Cross or any other nationally recognized certification programs. 

Tattoo Artist Permit Fees

Tattoo artist applications and renewals submit a $75 application fee. 

Late fees for tattoo renewals begin Dec. 1 and are $25 for each month delinquent.

• Late fees start before the permit expiration to prevent permitting gaps.

Tattoo artists reinstating their permit (lapsed for more than 90 days) submit the $75 application fee plus a $25 reinstatement fee.

Permit Schedules and Processing Times

• Tattoo artist applications process in one to two weeks.  Allow for up to three to four weeks during the renewal period (Oct. - Dec) and for any application Yes answer follow-ups.
• Tattoo artist permits are sent to the email on file when they are processed.
• Tattoo permits expire after Dec. 31 for the year issued.  
• New tattoo artist applicants can apply for the current year and following year permits during the renewal period (Oct. - Dec.) by submitting a $150 application fee.
  • If you are applying during the renewal period and paying for the current year and next year's permit, please keep in mind the processing turnaround times.
• If follow-up is necessary, program staff will reach out using the email on the application.