How much is tattoo school?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

Tattoo artists complete apprenticeships that cost $10,000, on average. These apprenticeship costs cover the purchase of tools and equipment as well as the actual apprenticeship. During these apprenticeships, tattoo artists undergo extensive on-the-job training that lasts on average from one to three years.

During an apprenticeship, aspiring artists learn sanitation and disposal procedures as well as infection prevention before they even begin tattooing. Employees in a tattoo parlor must complete OSHA-approved bloodborne pathogens (BBP) training. Apprentices also have direct observation hours, as well as hours cleaning and preparing a workstation.

Apprenticeship length generally depends on when an artist is ready and holds enough skill and knowledge to begin working without being under the observation of someone else. Although artists pay for their apprenticeship, they often are able to make money while learning, which makes the cost worthwhile.