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Tattoo Artist License in Hawaii

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Tattoo Artist license in HI. 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 Hawaii.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Tattoo Artist training program in Hawaii.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your HI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the Bloodborne Pathogens Certification.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

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

Requirements

The Hawaii licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring Tattoo Artist professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the Bloodborne Pathogens Certification. HI also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

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

License Fee Calculator — Tattoo Artist in Hawaii

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Maintaining your Tattoo Artist license in Hawaii requires timely renewal every 1 year. HI sets the renewal fee at $75. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the Hawaii board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in HI.

License Expiry Calculator — Tattoo Artist in HI

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

Additional Information

The demand for licensed Tattoo Artist professionals in Hawaii continues to grow. HI offers a supportive regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with professional opportunity. The licensing board in Hawaii provides online tools and resources to help applicants navigate the process efficiently. Many Tattoo Artist professionals in HI report high job satisfaction and competitive compensation.

Document Checklist — Tattoo Artist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Hawaii 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 HI license holders.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts HI Tattoo Artist license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize HI Tattoo Artist license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts HI Tattoo Artist license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts HI Tattoo Artist license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize HI Tattoo Artist license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for HI license holders.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize HI Tattoo Artist license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Hawaii

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

Honolulu

335 Merchant St, Honolulu, HI 96813

(808) 586-3000

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Hilo

75 Aupuni St, Hilo, HI 96720

(808) 961-8223

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Kailua-Kona

75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

(808) 323-4500

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Kahului

2145 Kaohu St, Wailuku, HI 96793

(808) 984-8230

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Lihue

3060 Eiwa St, Lihue, HI 96766

(808) 274-3100

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Hawaii Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Hawaii 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.