Do I need a license to be a tattoo artist in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia requires a license to tattoo, issued under the Board for Barbers and Cosmetology, after passing a board-approved examination. The examination fee will not exceed $225.
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- License required
- Yes. The regulation says anyone wishing to engage in tattooing must obtain a license.
- Issued by
- Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology
- Bloodborne pathogen training
- For training done outside Virginia: board-approved health education covering bloodborne pathogens and first aid
- Fee
- Examination fee not above $225 per candidate (the license fee itself was not read)
- Source
- Virginia Administrative Code, 18VAC41-50, read November 5, 2026.
What this page does not cover
It states what the cited text says on the date it was read. It does not cover other rules that may apply, such as local ordinances, a county or city permit, a studio's own policy or a change in the rule since that date. The official text prevails over this summary.
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