How to Become a Full-Time Licensed Tattoo or Body Piercing Artist in Oklahoma

Applicants must be at least eighteen (18) years of age. An artist license is only valid in a licensed facility.

Applicants must submit the following:

• Completed Tattoo/Body Piercing Artist License Application (for each type of license pursuing)
• Notarized copy of photo ID
• Notarized copy of birth certificate
• Completed Affidavit of Lawful Presence
• Proof of licensure experience OR proof of completion of an approved apprenticeship  
• Current Bloodborne Pathogen training certificate
• Current First Aid training certificate
• Current CPR training certificate
• $250 license fee (for each type of license pursuing)
• Low-Income Individual License Fee Waiver - House Bill 2933

Send all paperwork and documentation to:

Oklahoma State Department of Health
Consumer Protection Division
PO Box 268815
Oklahoma City, OK 73126-8815

After the two years of experience is verified and all of the above documents are received, the applicant will be mailed a Test Letter. Once received, the applicant must select an approved testing location to take the Tattoo/Body Piercing Competency Examination and contact that facility to schedule an exam.

The applicant must present the original Test Letter issued by the OSDH and a valid photo ID to the selected Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education approved testing location.

The testing fee will be $200.00, paid directly to Career Tech. Check with the selected testing location for valid forms of payment.

The applicant must receive a minimum score of 70% on the written examination that will include:

1. Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and disease;
2. Theory and application of ink;
3. Safety and aseptic technique;
4. Professionalism; and
5. Client consultation services.

If the minimum score of 70% is not met, the applicant can retest up to two (2) times. The applicant must wait at least seven (7) days before retesting. If a passing score is unable to be met after three (3) attempts, the applicant will be required to enroll or re-enroll in an Apprentice Program.

Once the passing score is verified, the Tattoo or Body Piercing Artist License will be mailed to the applicant.

Mailing Address:
Oklahoma State Department of Health
Consumer Health Service
P.O. Box 268815
Oklahoma City, OK 73126-8815

Physical Address:
Oklahoma State Department of Health
123 Robert S. Kerr Ave.
Oklahoma City, OK

Phone: (405) 426-8250
Fax: (405) 900-7557
Email: CHSLicensing@health.ok.gov