There is no linear way to become a Tattoo Artist, however there are steps you can take to help your success. Becoming a Tattoo Artist is a career that requires being a creative and talented person with a style and portfolio that attracts new and existing clients. 
 
Unlike other careers there is no necessary education to become a Tattoo Artist, however there are other subjective skills that are taken into consideration such as the persons talent when it comes to drawing and creativity. Although further education is not required, some Tattoo Artists hold degrees in various subjects including fine arts and illustration that can help them advance artistically.  
 
One common route to becoming a Tattoo Artist is by completing an apprenticeship.  Apprenticeships allow aspiring Tattoo Artists to complete certified training with the help of an experienced Tattoo Artist who is willing to help teach them. An important part of an apprenticeship is to create a portfolio of your work, this will be helpful when you begin your career and showcase your experience. During an apprenticeship you will learn the ins and outs of becoming a Tattoo Artist before earning the title yourself. 
 
In some states Tattoo Artists are required to be licensed, however these vary from location to location, for example in Arizona there is no license required whereas in Kansas a formal license is required. It is important to look into the laws and regulations where you wish to practice ensuring that you meet all the requirements. 

What skills are required to become a Tattoo Artist? 

• Creativity 

It goes without saying that Tattoo Artists need to be creative individuals. Tattoo Artists will earn their success and reputation based on their work and certain styles. Although anyone could become a Tattoo Artist, only those with high levels of creativity and style will succeed.  
 

• Cleanliness 

Although creativity is one of the most important skills and elements when it comes to tattooing, it is also essential that hygienic standards are met. Some Tattoo Artists are required to be licensed, and often there are hygienic components involved such as certificates about bloodborne pathogens or CPR. Tattoo Artists need to keep their work environment sanitary and it is important that they are clean and organized in the workplace. 
 

• Dedication 

The path to becoming a Tattoo Artist can be very long and include some years of unpaid training and even more years of earning a solid reputation. Tattoo Artists need to be dedicated to the art of tattooing whether it means working on one piece for hours or even days of separate sessions, or earning their reputation and landing a job as a professional Tattoo Artist.