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Body art, once considered the realm of sailors and ancient and indigenous cultures, has become a widely accepted form of self-expression. As a body art professional who offers tattooing, cosmetic tattooing, or body piercing services, you can help clients feel beautiful and whole.

Once you've obtained your body art license from the Kansas Board of Cosmetology, you can offer your artistic services at a licensed establishment like a tattoo parlor, piercing studio, or specialized salon or medical spa (offering permanent makeup, microblading, etc.).

If you specialize in micropigmentation techniques or paramedical tattooing (for mastectomy, scarring, and so on), you could even collaborate with the medical community.

No matter what services you offer, you will have to renew your license periodically. Learn how often body art licenses expire in Kansas and what steps you must take to renew yours.

License Expiration

Licenses for body art professionals are valid for up to two years from the date of issue. Individual licenses expire on the last day of the licensee's birth month, so if your birthday is May 10, your license will expire on May 31 within two years of obtaining it.

The Kansas Board of Cosmetology will mail a notice of renewal to your last known address before your license expires, but it is your responsibility to complete renewal requirements on time.

Requirements to Renew Your Body Art License

The law requires all licensed tattoo artists, cosmetic tattoo artists, and body piercers to complete five hours of board-approved continuing education (CE) for license renewal.

Approved courses must cover two main topics, namely infection control and blood-borne pathogens. You can choose in-person or online courses, which may be specific to your focus (tattooing versus piercing) or inclusive for all body art professionals.

What Happens if Your License Expires?

To renew your license, you must submit applicable renewal fees and proof of completed CE by the expiration date. Renewal applications postmarked after the expiration date are deemed late.

If your license expires, you are no longer legally permitted to offer tattooing or body piercing services.

If you renew within one year of your license expiring, you must not only submit renewal fees and approved CE but also pay late fees and complete three additional hours of CE covering infection control and blood-borne pathogens (for a total of eight hours).

If your license has expired for more than a year but less than three years, it will be suspended, but you may still apply for renewal. You will have to pay a suspended renewal fee and a reactivation fee, in addition to other requirements.

Those who fail to renew a license within three years of expiration must reapply for licensure, pass the state exam, and pay applicable licensing fees to obtain a new license.

Finding the Right CE Program for Your Needs

As a working professional, you need a CE program that suits your busy lifestyle. Look for a state-approved program that offers 24/7 access to online courses for convenient, self-paced learning. Choose a program that provides an instant certificate of completion for your records, as well as state notification on your behalf.

Is it time to renew your Kansas body art license? Contact RocketCert now to find suitable continuing education courses.