Tattoo regulations in Florida
Florida's Department of Health licenses both tattoo artists and tattoo establishments. To get an artist licence you complete an approved course on bloodborne pathogens and communicable diseases and pass an exam. Establishments are inspected, and guest artists register with the department before working.
Last checked September 25, 2026
Minimum age
Who you can tattoo, and with whose permission.
Minimum age
18 and over
Younger clients
From 16 with a parent's or guardian's consent
Clients aged 16 or 17 can be tattooed with the notarized written consent of a parent or legal guardian who is present. Under 16 is not allowed except for medical or dental reasons. Check the current statute before relying on this.
Consent
What the customer signs before each tattoo.
Client records
What to record and how long to keep it.
Keep for 3 years
From official guidance
What to record
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Address
- Type of ID checked
- Date of the procedure
- Placement on the body
- Description of the tattoo
- Artist
- Client signature
- Parent or guardian details
Ink
What can go into the skin and what you must record.
Sterilization and waste
Cleaning, sterilizing and getting rid of sharps.
Licensing
What you need to open a studio and work in it.
Guest artists
Hosting artists from somewhere else.