Up until now, the only law governing tattoo and body piercing artists in Illinois was the one stating that tattooing on minors was prohibited. This was unusual in a time where most other states were requiring licensing, especially in a field that requires sanitary conditions. However, Illinois finally got with the program—probably after several people contracted staph infections after visiting tattoo parlors whose sanitation procedures were less than ideal. By the end of 2009, all tattoo artists will be required to have a tattoo artist license. Learn tips to obtain a tattoo license in Illinois.
Make Sure the Tattoo Shop is Up-to-Date in Terms of Health
The state will perform yearly health inspections to ensure that the environment is sanitary. Individuals must comply with sanitation, sterilization, and hygiene rules that will be instituted by the Department of Professional Regulation. Currently, tattoo shops must only submit a copy of the floor plan and other important documents such as release forms, after care instructions, sanitation procedures, and emergency procedures. However the state is stepping it up a notch by now enforcing yearly inspections. For additional information, visit State of Illinois General Assembly.
Obtain a Tattoo Art License from the Department of Professional Regulation
Exams for the tattoo artist license will only be administered in January and July of each year. If individuals fail the test the first time, they will still have a second chance to take it when the time rolls around for the second test. The license is good until December 31 of that year and then must be renewed. The fee for the initial license is $200.
Renew Your License Every Year
The renewal fee for a tattoo artist license is $20. If individuals fail to renew their license before December 31, the license will be considered forfeited 30 days after written notice has been served. The cost to renew an expired license is $100. This is why it’s very important to remember to renew the license. To renew the license, individuals must take an exam administered by the Department of Professional Regulation. If they fail to quality for the renewal, the fees will not be refunded.
Follow the Rules and Restrictions
In order to keep the license, individuals must adhere to guidelines established by the state. No tattoos should be provided to anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Also, tattoos should not be administered to anyone under the age of 18 without parental consent or consent of a legal guardian. Before tattooing on any individual, there are some things that one must first explain to them. One must explain the nature of the procedure, possible tissue reactions, the after-care procedure, and the permanency of the decision.
Maintain Proper Records
The state requires individuals to maintain proper client records for at least ten years after the date of service. These records should include the date of procedure, name, address, and age of client, design and location of tattoo, name of tattoo artist, and signature of the client.
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