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Tattooist, piercing and electrolysis licences

Tattooists and other skin-piercing practitioners must comply with strict rules to safeguard public safety. Skin piercing includes:

  • acupuncture

  • cosmetic piercing

  • electrolysis

  • semi-permanent skin colouring

  • tattooing

If you operate any form of tattooing or other skin-piercing business, you must register with us. You must also comply with our byelaws for tattooing and skin piercing which sets out the hygienic standards expected at your premises.

Fees

The cost to apply for a Tattooist, piercing and electrolysis licence is £141.29.

How to register

If you want to register a business for tattooing or other skin piercing activities, complete our online application form, you can make payment through this as well.

What happens next

After you have applied, an inspector will arrange to visit your premises to make sure you're compliant with our bye-laws and are meeting the general health and safety requirements.

They will be able to offer you any help and advice you need if you're unsure how to meet your obligations.

List of registered premises

If you'd like a list of the premises registered with us for tattooing and skin piercing, please contact us.

Guidance and legislation