Can you be a self-taught tattoo artist in Florida?

Author: Otho Renner  |  Last update: Sunday, July 13, 2025

An Apprenticeship is not required in the state of Florida to apply for the Tattoo Artist License (154kb PDF).

Is it legal to be a self-taught tattoo artist?

No law prevents you from tattooing your own body. Professionals who tattoo other people must be trained and licensed and adhere to the laws, but they could tattoo themselves without restrictions.

Do you need a license to be a tattoo artist in Florida?

In Florida, all forms of tattooing require a license.

Can you be a self-employed tattoo artist?

Tattoo artists are generally self-employed contractors/sole traders so you work for yourself. You'd have to discuss your specific circumstances with the shop owner and see if they can contractually employ you instead.

Is $200 an hour a lot for a tattoo artist?

According to PayScale, the average hourly rate for tattoo artists is about $100. This is typical for experienced, non-apprentice tattoo artists with solid portfolios, but some popular tattooists charge as much as $300 per hour.

3 Things I wish I knew BEFORE I Started Tattooing.... *Self Taught Artist

How much should a 2 hour tattoo cost?

Many tattoo artists charge an hourly rate, ranging from $50 to $300 per hour or more, depending on their skill level and reputation. Hourly rates may be more common for custom designs or larger, more detailed pieces.

Can I teach myself tattooing?

A: Yes, you can self-teach yourself tattooing, but it's crucial to prioritize safety, practice on synthetic skin or fruit first, and consider an apprenticeship with a professional to ensure proper technique and hygiene standards.

Can you legally tattoo yourself without a license?

In fact, according to subject matter expert attorney Mark Theoharis, tattooing without a license is illegal, and if someone without a license gives you a tattoo (even if it's free), they have committed a crime.

Should I get an LLC as a tattoo artist?

Starting a limited liability company (LLC) for your tattoo parlor can provide several benefits. Most importantly, an LLC structure offers limited liability to its owners, which can protect their personal assets from lawsuits and creditors.

Can you tattoo from home in Florida?

The Florida Statutes do not have provisions for a mobile tattoo license. All tattooing must occur in a licensed fixed or temporary tattoo establishment.

How much is a tattoo license in Florida?

With application, you will need to provide the following: $60 Fee.

How to become a tattoo artist in Florida online?

Tattoo Artist Licensure

Meet the Department of Health's new education requirement to operate as a licensed tattoo artist in the state of Florida. By taking this online bloodborne pathogen & communicable disease course you will satisfy the state's requirement and can apply for your tattoo artist license.

How to become a tattoo artist from home?

Steps You Can Take to Start Tattooing at Home
  1. Take a Bloodborne Pathogens Certification Class.
  2. Draw Tattoo Designs.
  3. Spend Time in a Tattoo Shop.
  4. Get Your Tattoo Equipment.
  5. Linework Drills on Fake Skin.
  6. Tattoo Small Designs.

Can you own a tattoo shop without being an artist?

And, nothing says that the owner of a tattoo shop has to be a tattoo artist, but they must be intimately familiar with the ins and outs of the industry and the tattoo community. No matter what, there's a lot to consider when starting and running a tattoo business.

How to practice tattooing without apprenticeship?

If you need some tattoo practice, you can build your skills in three main ways:
  1. Draw tattoos on paper.
  2. Get tattooing practice on fake skin.
  3. Tattoo on real people.

What is the easiest state to get a tattoo license?

Florida. Becoming a tattoo artist in Florida may be far easier than you think. You'll only need to complete a tattoo artist education course and pay a $60 licensing fee. Even better, Florida has a staggeringly high demand for skilled tattoo artists.

Can you sue an unlicensed tattoo artist?

If you end up paying to more to fix any damage, yes, you can sue this artist in Small Claims court. Make sure you get whoever fixes the tattoo to specify how much extra this artist's bad work cost you so you can prove your damages in court.

Can you get in trouble for getting a tattoo in jail?

Tattoo equipment is also considered contraband, and tattooing can be considered by prison officials to be a punishable form of self-mutilation. In 2011, the Federal Bureau of Prisons reclassified tattooing as a high severity prohibited act.

Can you practice tattooing at home?

Once you've filled a sketchbook or two with tattoo designs and purchased your first tattoo machine, you can begin practicing on the skin. The easiest choice is synthetic skin as there is no risk of hurting anyone. This soft-like texture is a great replica of real flesh so you can practice as many times as you like.

How fast can you learn tattooing?

Most people cannot enter the tattoo business until they train for around two to three years. While this might sound like a long time, keep in mind that tattoos are permanent works of art. Once you tattoo a design onto a person's skin, it will be there for the rest of their lives.

What is a $50 tattoo?

$50 tattoos are approximately one inch by one inch in black ink on arms or legs. Other areas of the body start at only $70. Actual size may differ from listing on this page depending on your browser settings. Please consult your artist for actual sizing.

Is $50 a good tip for a $350 tattoo?

The general consensus in the tattoo community is that 20 percent is the typical amount to tip—just like at a restaurant or a hair salon.

Is 200 an hour expensive for a tattoo?

Hiring a tattoo artist typically costs $150 to $250 per hour, and prices depend on skill level and demand of Tattooist.

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