Guide
Steps to qualify for an Oregon tattoo license:
1
Meet the basic requirements
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a high school diploma or GED.
- Have a valid government-issued photo ID.
2
Choose your licensing path
- Attend an Oregon-approved tattoo school (360 hours + 50 tattoos).
- Or qualify through reciprocity with experience or an out-of-state license.
3
Gather mandatory safety training certificates
- Current CPR certification.
- Current basic first aid training.
- Current bloodborne pathogen (BBP) training.
4
Pass the Oregon written exam
- Exam includes infection control, safety, Oregon laws, and tattoo procedures.
5
Submit application, documents, and fees
- Submit the official HLO application.
- Attach ID, diploma, transcripts or reciprocity proof.
- Include CPR, First Aid, and BBP certificates.
- Pay licensing fees.
6
Maintain your license
- Complete 10 hours of CE every year.
- Keep CPR, First Aid, and BBP training current.
- Follow all tattoo safety and sanitation rules.
- Work only in a licensed tattoo facility.
The Oregon Health Licensing Agency has approved Body Art Training Group's bloodborne pathogens course for tattoo artists, body piercers, and electrologists.
Take our "Bloodborne Pathogens Infection Control Training" course to meet Oregon's BBP training requirement for body art practitioners.
