If you’re passionate about the art of tattooing and looking to make it your professional career, then you’re in the right place. This guide will help you navigate through the process of obtaining a tattoo license in the state of Colorado.
Meet the Basic Requirements for Tattoo Licensing in Colorado
Before you can set your sights on becoming a licensed tattoo artist, there are certain requirements you need to meet. Let’s take a look at some of these prerequisites:
Age: You must be at least 18 years old. Seems straightforward enough, right?
Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is needed. This means you’ve got the basics of learning down and are ready to take on more specialized training.
Health: Tattooing is a profession that requires you to be in close contact with your clients. So, it’s important that you’re in good health. You’ll need to provide proof that you’re free from any communicable diseases. This is not only for your safety but also for your future clients.
Legal: Clean criminal record? Check. You see, Colorado is pretty serious about who they let tattoo their residents.
Once you’ve ticked these boxes, you’re ready to dive into the next step of the process — training. But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you on how to get a tattoo license in Colorado every step of the way.
Complete a Bloodborne Pathogens Training Course
Next up on your journey to becoming a licensed tattoo artist in Colorado is the completion of a Bloodborne Pathogens Training Course. “Bloodborne what?” you may ask. Well, it’s a course designed to educate you about the diseases that can be transmitted through blood and other body fluids, and how to prevent spreading them. It’s incredibly important in the tattoo industry, where skin is being punctured and blood is often involved.
The good news is that this course can be completed online and usually takes less than a few hours. It covers topics such as:
Understanding bloodborne pathogens: You’ll learn about what these pathogens are and how they spread.
Infection prevention: This part of the course will teach you about universal precautions to prevent infections and protect both you and your clients.
Proper waste disposal: Dispose of needles and other equipment safely? Check.
Post-exposure procedures: Accidents can happen. Knowing what to do if you or a client get exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials is crucial.
Once you’ve completed this course, you’re one step closer to understanding how to get a tattoo license in Colorado. And believe us, your clients will appreciate your commitment to safety.
Obtain a Tattoo Apprenticeship
Now that you’ve completed the Bloodborne Pathogens Training Course, it’s time to get some hands-on experience. And what better way to do that than by getting an apprenticeship?
Before you start looking at the classifieds, let’s be clear: Becoming an apprentice isn’t just about learning how to create beautiful tattoos. It’s about understanding the art and the business of tattooing from experienced professionals. So, where do you find such an opportunity?
Local tattoo shops: This is the most common path to becoming a tattoo artist. Start by researching local tattoo shops in Colorado, and visit the ones that resonate with your style. Don’t just walk in asking for an apprenticeship though. Build a relationship, show them your passion for the art, and then present them with your portfolio.
Tattoo schools: Yes, they exist and can provide a structured learning environment. However, they can be costly and are often looked down upon in the industry for not providing the real-world experience that a traditional apprenticeship offers.
Remember, the goal of an apprenticeship is to learn from a seasoned professional. So, choose wisely. This is a significant step in figuring out how to get a tattoo license in Colorado. Enjoy this journey. After all, it’s not every day you get to learn a craft that combines art, science, and a dash of magic!
Apply for the Tattoo Artist License
Once you’ve soaked up all the knowledge and experience from your apprenticeship, you’re ready to take the next big leap—applying for your tattoo artist license.
In Colorado, the Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is your go-to authority for this. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide on how to get your tattoo license in Colorado:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need your apprenticeship completion certificate, your Bloodborne Pathogens Training course certificate, and a copy of your ID. Make sure all your documents are in order before you start the application process!
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
You can find the application form on the CDPHE website. Make sure to fill it out completely and accurately.
Step 3: Pay the Fee
Yes, unfortunately, this step can’t be avoided. But think of it as a small investment in your future as a licensed tattoo artist.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once your application is complete and your fee is paid, you should submit everything to the CDPHE. Then, wait patiently for the good news!
Take a moment to pat yourself on the back. You’re one step closer to realizing your dream of becoming a licensed tattoo artist in Colorado. But remember, the journey doesn’t end here. There are still a few more steps in this dance of how to get a tattoo license in Colorado. Keep your dancing shoes on; we’re moving on to the next step!
Maintain and Renew Your Tattoo License
So you’ve done it, you’ve got your tattoo license in Colorado! But remember, with great power comes great responsibility. Now that you’re a licensed tattoo artist, it’s crucial to keep your license up-to-date. Here’s how you can do just that:
Stay Current with Your Training:
Yes, the learning never stops! Make sure you’re up-to-date with the latest health and safety training. This not only ensures you maintain high standards of hygiene in your practice, but it also keeps you in the green with the CDPHE.
Renew Your License:
In Colorado, tattoo licenses need to be renewed every year. Mark your calendar, set a reminder, do whatever it takes to remember this important date. The renewal process is straightforward—simply head to the CDPHE website, fill out the renewal form, and pay the renewal fee.
Keep Your Records Clean:
Just like any business, you need to keep a clean record. This means sticking to the rules, maintaining good customer service, and staying clear of any violations. A clean record will make your renewal process easier and quicker.
And voila, you’re all set! By following these guidelines, you’ll have no issues maintaining and renewing your tattoo license. It’s the final step in understanding how to get a tattoo license in Colorado and a critical one in staying in business. So let’s keep those ink guns buzzing and your artistic dreams alive!