Inkeva

Tattoo regulations in Denmark

Denmark has a dedicated tattoo law and some of the strictest ink record rules in Europe. Tattooing anyone under 18 is prohibited, tattooists must be registered with the Danish Safety Technology Authority (Sikkerhedsstyrelsen), and the details of every ink used must be recorded per client and kept. Check sik.dk for the current registration and course requirements.

Last checked September 25, 2026

Minimum age

Who you can tattoo, and with whose permission.

Minimum age

18 and over

Younger clients

Parental consent is not an exception

Tattooing a person under 18 is not allowed, even with a parent's consent. Check photo ID for anyone who might be under 18.

Client records

What to record and how long to keep it.

Keep for 5 years

From official guidance

  • Accounting records: 5 years

What to record

  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • Date of the procedure
  • Placement on the body
  • Artist
  • Ink brand, colour and manufacturer
  • Ink lot numbers
  • Health questionnaire answers
  • Client signature

Ink

What can go into the skin and what you must record.

EU REACH ink restriction appliesYes
Ink labelling rulesRequired

Sterilization and waste

Cleaning, sterilizing and getting rid of sharps.

Autoclave cycle logsDepends on the local authority
Spore testingNo fixed schedule
Sharps and clinical waste disposalRequired

Licensing

What you need to open a studio and work in it.

Studio licence or registrationNot required
Artist licence or registrationRequired
Bloodborne pathogens or hygiene trainingRequired

Guest artists

Hosting artists from somewhere else.

Permit or registration for guest artistsRequired

Guest artists tattooing in Denmark are expected to meet the same registration and ink record rules. Confirm with Sikkerhedsstyrelsen before a guest spot.

Sources