Tattoo Artist / Illinois
2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois Tattoo Artist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

PlainCredential home → About this data

Performs tattooing and permanent makeup. Licensed in most states.

What the Illinois data shows for Tattoo Artists

Becoming a licensed tattoo artist in Illinois means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 1,500 training hours, a passing score on a state-approved exam, plus a background history check. Illinois regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Upfront cost is $75 on a 2-year cycle. Illinois doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

Illinois evaluates out-of-state credentials case-by-case rather than through a published reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,500 hours
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$75
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Tattoo Artist All Illinois licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Illinois licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Tattoo Artist in Illinois? ▼
In Illinois, the license path calls for 1500 education/training hours, a passing exam score, and a $75 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Tattoo Artist in Illinois? ▼
Certification as a tattoo artist in Illinois means clearing the state's checklist: 1500 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Illinois licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Tattoo Artist license to Illinois from another state? ▼
Out-of-state tattoo artist credentials get a case-by-case review in Illinois rather than automatic recognition. Interstate compacts exist for a number of professions and might still help. Confirm the details with the Illinois licensing board.
Does Illinois require a background check for Tattoo Artist licensing? ▼
Illinois does require a background check before issuing a tattoo artist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.