If you love blending technical skill with creativity, few careers are as satisfying as helping clients express themselves through body art and body modification.
Whether you work in tattooing, body piercing, body art, or permanent cosmetics, protecting public health and safety is a core part of every job you do.
Washington requires body art professionals to hold a license from the Department of Licensing before they can legally practice. Getting that license is only the first step, though. You will need to renew it on a regular schedule, and completing bloodborne pathogens (BBP) training is a condition of every renewal. Here at Exam Insiders, we break down exactly what that involves.
What You Need to Renew Your License
A Washington body art license stays valid for exactly one year from the day it is issued. For example, a license granted on June 1, 2026 expires on June 1, 2027. Renewal applications can be submitted as early as 120 days before your expiration date, and getting yours in early is the smartest way to avoid a lapse that could cost you.
Every year, licensed tattoo artists, body piercers, body artists, and permanent cosmetics professionals must complete state-mandated BBP training in order to be eligible for renewal.
State-approved programs follow OSHA 29 C.F.R. 1910.1030 standards. Instead of requiring a set number of hours, the rule focuses on covering a specific curriculum. In practice, most courses run about 1 to 2 hours and are available online through state-approved providers.
What Happens If You Miss Your Renewal
The biggest consequence of a late renewal is simple: you can no longer legally work. That can disrupt your business and cut into your income. Practicing on an expired license is a gross misdemeanor, which can bring serious legal consequences such as fines and even jail time.
After your license expires, you have up to one year to renew it. You will still need to satisfy all renewal requirements, and an extra late fee will apply. Once a license has been lapsed for more than a year, it is canceled.
A canceled license cannot be renewed. Instead, you will have to apply for a brand-new license, meet whatever licensing standards are in effect at that time, and pay all applicable fees.
Choosing a BBP Course That Fits Your Schedule
Between clients and running a business, carving out time for continuing education can be tough, even when you know how important it is. Look for a program built with working professionals in mind, with round-the-clock online access to course materials so you can learn at your own pace.
Strong courses are created by industry experts and educators and are designed around what you actually need. For BBP training, that means the required curriculum standards are fully covered. It also helps to pick a program that issues a certificate of completion instantly, so you have it on file and can submit your renewal right away.
If your Washington tattooing, body piercing, body art, or permanent cosmetics license is nearing its renewal window, now is the perfect time to schedule your BBP training and stay on track.