Tattoos, Permanent Makeup, and Microblading

Tattoo, Microblading, and Permanent Makeup Permits in North Carolina

In North Carolina, tattoo artists who use needles or blades to put ink or pigment into the skin must have a permit.

Each tattoo artist is issued a Tattoo Permit for one specific location. If an artist works at more than one location, they need a separate permit for each place.

Microblading and Permanent Makeup

Aestheticians who provide microblading or permanent makeup services must also have a permit for the location where they work.
They must also meet all cosmetic arts licensing requirements.

Inspections and Permits

Inspections and permits help protect public health. They make sure basic sanitation rules are followed to prevent the spread of disease.

Before offering services, artists must:

Once approved, the permit allows the artist to legally provide services at that location.

Before getting a tattoo or permanent makeup, always check to make sure the artist’s current permit is clearly posted at the business.

If it’s not posted, that’s a red flag 🚩.

Bloodborne Pathogen Training

Artists are strongly encouraged to have a current Bloodborne Pathogen Certificate.

Environmental Health offers an annual Bloodborne Pathogen class for tattoo artists. This class includes:

  • Bloodborne pathogen training

  • Hands-only CPR

  • Other health and safety education

Artists who complete this annual training may display certificates or course materials in their shops.

BLOODBORNE PATHOGEN PROGRAM DECAL (1) (1)

Resources

You can also view the inspection grades for tattoo establishments.