Kansas Tattoo License Guide
How to Get a Tattoo License in Kansas (2026 Guide)
Learn the Kansas tattoo licensing process in a clear, step-by-step format. This guide explains apprentice requirements, practitioner licensing, exams, bloodborne pathogens training, and fees.
Quick Answer
In Kansas, tattoo artists are regulated by the Kansas Board of Cosmetology. Most artists start by entering the state’s body art apprentice pathway, complete approved training, pass the required exams, and then apply for a Tattoo Artist License.
Kansas also regulates the facility where tattooing takes place, so artists should make sure they are working in a properly licensed body art establishment.
Kansas Tattoo License Fast Facts
| Licensing authority |
Kansas Board of Cosmetology |
| License name |
Tattoo Artist or Cosmetic Tattoo Artist |
| Entry path |
Option 1. Apprentice license, approved training, pass exam, then practitioner application
Option 2: Out-of-state licensure pathway
|
| Exam requirement |
Written theory exam and practical exam |
| Bloodborne pathogens & infection control training |
Take 8 hours of infection control and bloodborne pathogens training for initial license; take 5 hours of this training for biennial license renewal. |
| Fees |
- Written Examination: $75
- Practical Examination: $75
- Apprentice License: $15
- Practitioner License: $100
- License Renewal: $50
- Out-of-state License Application: $75
|
| Renewal cycle |
Licenses expire 2 years after issuance |
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Tattoo License in Kansas
- Review the Kansas Board of Cosmetology body art rules.
Start by reviewing the Board’s body art practitioner information, forms, and regulations. This helps you understand the apprentice-to-practitioner pathway before training begins. If you are already licensed in another state, Kansas also offers a separate out-of-state licensure pathway.
- Apply for a body art apprentice license.
Kansas has an apprentice application for body art practitioners. The application requires a fee and photocopies of your Social Security card, current U.S. government-issued photo identification, and high school transcript.
- Choose an approved course of study
You must obtain your apprenticeship training in an approved school or with an approved trainer.
- Complete the required training hours and procedures.
Your training program must include both theory and practical experience, along with documented completed procedures.
• If you train in an approved school, you must complete at least 600 hours of theory and practical experience, including 50 completed procedures.
• If you train under an approved trainer, you must complete at least 1,200 hours of theory and practical experience, including 50 completed procedures. A training program supervised directly by an approved trainer is limited to one trainee at a time.
- Complete the initial continuing education requirement.
In addition to the 600- or 1,200-hour training requirement, you must complete 8 hours of board-approved continuing education in infection control and bloodborne pathogens before receiving your initial license. Body Art Training Group offers an approved 3-hour class.
- Pass the written and practical exams.
Kansas requires both a written theory exam and a practical exam for tattoo licensure. Completing your training alone is not enough. You must also pass the required examinations.
- Submit your practitioner license application.
After you complete your training and pass the required exams, you can submit your license application. Be sure to review the application carefully and include all required supporting documentation.
- Work only in a properly licensed establishment.
Kansas licenses body art establishments. Even if you hold an individual tattoo artist license, the facility where you perform tattoo services must also meet state licensing requirements.
Important: Review the current Kansas Board of Cosmetology instructions and requirements before submitting your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do tattoo artists need a license in Kansas?
Yes. Kansas regulates tattooing through the Kansas Board of Cosmetology, and tattoo artists must hold the appropriate body art practitioner license to legally perform services.
Do you need an apprenticeship to become a tattoo artist in Kansas?
Kansas uses an apprentice and practitioner licensing structure for body art. Most applicants begin through the apprentice pathway and complete the required training before applying for practitioner licensure.
Does Kansas require bloodborne pathogens training?
Yes. Kansas requires infection control and bloodborne pathogens training for tattoo artists.
Does Kansas require an exam for tattoo licensure?
Yes. Kansas requires both a written theory exam and a practical exam for tattoo licensure.
What are the average annual earnings for a tattoo artist in Kansas??
As of March 11, 2026, ZipRecruiter reported an average salary of $95,302 for tattoo artists in Kansas. On the same date, Gemini reported an average annual income of $75,522.
Because many tattoo artists work as independent contractors, actual earnings can vary widely based on skill level, client base, reputation, shop arrangement, and location.
Neighboring State Guides
Artists often compare Kansas requirements with those of nearby states.
Disclaimer: This guide is a plain-language summary to help new artists understand the licensing process. It is not legal advice. Always review the current state and local regulations and check with your local health department for exact requirements where you plan to work.
