Tattoo and Body Art Arkansas Department of Health

Tattoo and Body Art

On March 23, 2020, the Secretary of Health, in conjunction with the Governor, issued a directive that Barber Shops, Body Art Establishments, Body Art Schools, Cosmetology Establishments, Massage Therapy Clinics/Spas, and Medical Spas should close for in-person operations. Beginning May 6, 2020, these providers may resume services if they meet the conditions outlined in this directive. The new directive specifies steps licensees must take to safely reopen. The directive notes that the Department of Health COVID Infection Control Education module should be viewed prior to reopening. That module can be viewed here. Additional supplemental recommendations are available here.

Under the new directive, signage must be posted in cosmetology establishments and massage clinics, informing clients and staff about new requirements. Signage appropriate for this use is available here.

Failure to voluntarily comply with lawful Directives of ADH, include the potential for enforcement through criminal and civil penalties, as provided in Arkansas law.

Until the public health emergency is lifted Body Artist Apprentice Testing is postponed until further notice.

Thank you for your cooperation to this manner.

Tattoo and Body Art, Permanent Cosmetics, Body Piercing, and Branding

image of a Tattoo artist holding a tattooing pen This page contains information regarding consultation with tattoo, permanent cosmetic, body piercing and branding artists regarding establishments, training, testing, inspections, inquiries, complaints, product reviews, development/revisions of requirements and plan reviews. The information is in compliance with the National Environmental Health Association, Center for Disease Control and FDA requirements as well as industry organization recommendations such as the Alliance for Professional Tattooist and the Association of Professional Piercers. The Arkansas Department of Health also works with the State Board of Private Career Education on the development of requirements for training and plan reviews of new or renovation of existing establishments.

Body art exams for artists in training are administered at the Arkansas Department of Health Central Office, 4815 West Markham Street, Little Rock AR. The exams are given the third Tuesday of each month at 2:00 PM. No exams are given in December. An appointment for the exam is required and must be scheduled by the artist trainer. Exams must be scheduled by 12:00 p.m. on the Friday before the exam.

Rules and Regulations