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Tattoo Artist License in Colorado

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Tattoo Artist license in CO. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

2-4 Weeks

Exam Required

Bloodborne Pathogens Certification

Difficulty Level

Low

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Tattoo Artist license in Colorado.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Tattoo Artist training program in Colorado.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your CO application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the Bloodborne Pathogens Certification.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Colorado licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 2-4 weeks in CO. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

To obtain your Tattoo Artist license in Colorado, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Colorado requires all applicants to pass the Bloodborne Pathogens Certification before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in CO is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

Before applying for a Tattoo Artist license in Colorado, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. CO requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the Bloodborne Pathogens Certification is a non-negotiable requirement in Colorado.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Tattoo Artist license in Colorado is approximately $150. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. CO also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Colorado may incur additional penalties of up to $38.

License Fee Calculator — Tattoo Artist in Colorado

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Your Tattoo Artist license in Colorado must be renewed every 1 year. The renewal fee in CO is $75. Colorado requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in CO can result in fines and disciplinary action.

License Expiry Calculator — Tattoo Artist in CO

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Colorado requires renewal every 1 year.

Additional Information

Colorado takes professional licensing seriously, and the Tattoo Artist field is no exception. The state board in CO regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Tattoo Artist in Colorado, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The CO licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Tattoo Artist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Colorado Tattoo Artist License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize CO Tattoo Artist license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts CO Tattoo Artist license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize CO Tattoo Artist license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize CO Tattoo Artist license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts CO Tattoo Artist license via reciprocity agreement.
Iowa (IA) NoneIA does not recognize CO Tattoo Artist license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Colorado

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Denver

1560 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

(303) 894-7855

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Springs

30 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

(719) 385-5175

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Aurora

15151 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012

(303) 739-7000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fort Collins

300 LaPorte Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80521

(970) 221-6500

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Boulder

1777 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80302

(303) 441-3388

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Colorado Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Colorado state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.