Blog

Helping people explore self-expression through body art/modification can make for a truly rewarding career, especially if you're drawn to both technical and creative pursuits.

As a professional in the field of tattooing, body piercing, body art, or permanent cosmetics, you're naturally concerned about preserving public health and safety during the course of your work.

In Washington, you must obtain a license from the Department of Licensing before you can legally operate as a body art professional. However, it's not a one-and-done process. You are also required to renew your license periodically, and you must complete bloodborne pathogens (BBP) training to qualify for renewal.

License Renewal Requirements

Body art licenses in Washington are valid for exactly one year from the date of issuance, so if you received your license on June 1, 2026, it will expire on June 1, 2027. You can submit an application for renewal up to 120 days before the expiration date. It's always best to apply early to avoid a potentially costly lapse in licensing.

To qualify for renewal, licensed tattooing, body piercing, body art, or permanent cosmetics professionals must complete state-mandated BBP training annually.

A state-approved program will comply with OSHA 29 C.F.R. 1910.1030 standards. The mandate centers on a set curriculum, rather than a specific number of hours, but most courses take approximately 1-2 hours to complete and can be taken online from state-approved providers.

Penalties for Failure to Renew

Perhaps the most significant penalty for failing to renew your license on time is that you will no longer be legally allowed to practice. This could interrupt your business and impact your income. Continuing to practice without a license is a gross misdemeanor that could result in serious legal penalties, including fines and jail time.

You have up to one year from the time your license expires to renew, although you will have to meet all requirements and pay an additional late fee. If your license lapses for more than a year, it will be canceled.

When this happens, you cannot renew it. You must apply for a new license, meet all current licensing standards, and pay applicable fees.

BBP Training That Works for You

As a busy body art professional, it's not always easy to find time for continuing education, even though you know it's essential for your job. You need a program designed for working professionals that offers the convenience of 24/7 online access to course materials to facilitate self-paced learning.

The best courses are designed by industry experts and educators and are tailored to your needs. In the case of BBP, this means ensuring curriculum standards are met. You should look for a program that offers an instant certificate of completion for your records so that you can apply for license renewal immediately.

Is your renewal window for a Washington tattooing, body piercing, body art, or permanent cosmetics license coming up? Contact RocketCert now to sign up for the BBP training you need to qualify for renewal.