Bloodborne Pathogens Training for Texas Tattoo Artists and Piercers

(Current as of July 5, 2024.) 


The State of Texas does not require body art practitioners to take a bloodborne pathogens (BBP) course.

According to Texas Administrative Code Title 25, Section 229.405(i), tattoo artists and piercers are required to have the education, training, and experience, or any combination thereof, necessary to practice aseptic techniques and prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. The code, however, does not explicitly mandate completing a bloodborne pathogens (BBP) course.

Some local jurisdictions within Texas, such as Wichita Falls and El Paso, have additional requirements, that include mandatory BBP courses for body art practitioners.

So, while Texas sets general guidelines on education, training, and experience to prevent BBP transmission, a few local areas have more specific requirements for tattoo artists and piercers.


Even though Texas does not require it, here's why taking a bloodborne pathogens course is essential for Texas body art practitioners: 

  • Texas Compliance: Knowledge of BBP protocols is needed to comply with the Texas Administrative Code.
  • OSHA Compliance: Texas body art practitioners who are subject to OSHA regulations are required to take annual BBP training
  • Infection Prevention: Bloodborne pathogens training helps artists prevent the transmission of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and other infectious diseases
  • Proper Hygiene Practices: Training reinforces the correct use of work practice controls, engineering controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE) 
  • Waste Management: Artists learn how to properly dispose of needles and other sharps as well as contaminated materials
  • Client Safety and Trust: Clients are more likely to trust and feel safe with a tattoo artist or piercer who has received formal training in bloodborne pathogens.
  • Professional Standards: Following industry standards enhances the professionalism of the body art practitioner and contributes to the overall credibility of the body art industry.
  • Legal Protection: Understanding, following, and documenting the correct infection prevention protocols provides protection in case of client disputes

In summary, bloodborne pathogens training is essential for achieving success as a body art practitioner.

Tattoo artists and piercers who work in Texas should consider taking “OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Training for Body Art Professionals (Nationwide)”. The price is $30. This online, narrated course complies with OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. The course can be taken in English, Spanish, or Vietnamese.

Take the course

Texas Regulations for Body Art Facilities

Any Texas business that does tattooing, piercing, permanent cosmetics, microblading, or scarification is required to obtain a tattoo/piercing license from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

The Texas Drugs and Medical Devices Unit inspects body art studios to ensure compliance with licensing standards. 

The “Tattoo and Certain Body Piercing Act”, Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 146, sets out the requirements for body art studios. Some of these requirements are as follows:

  • Obtain a license
  • Meet facility requirements
  • Not tattoo or pierce minors (See exceptions in TAC Title 25, 229.406 (c)(d))
  • Not tattoo or pierce persons under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Prevent the spread of infection by observing universal precautions
  • Maintain records for each person receiving a tattoo or piercing
  • Maintain records showing routine sterilization practices
  • Provide oral and written instructions for the care of tattoos or piercings
  • Report any adverse effect or infection caused by tattooing or piercing
  • Dispose of infectious waste according to regulations

Some jurisdictions in Texas, however, may have local regulations that are stricter than those of the state.


Texas Body Art Regulations Are Enforced

Body art regulations in Texas are enforced. From January to May 2022, inspectors from the Texas Drugs and Medical Devices Unit brought disciplinary action against 9 body art shops. Penalties ranged from $400 to $1,725. Violations included: 

  • not maintaining the studio in a sanitary condition
  • tattooing a person younger than 18 years of age
  • not providing the client with verbal and written information about the possible risk and dangers associated with the application of tattoos
  • not maintaining proper client records
  • not maintaining sterilization records

Texas Body Art Regulations May Change

Make sure you are aware of the current regulations for body art studios and body art practitioners in the location in which you work.