Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Birmingham, AL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Birmingham, Jefferson County, Alabama.

Updated 2026-03-15 5 stops $300–$1,000 est. 3–8 weeks
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Alabama

2 stops

  1. Alabama Department of Revenue — Sales Tax License

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Alabama. Alabama's state sales tax rate is 4%. Local city and county sales taxes are additional and can be significant (total rates range from 5–10%). Register with the Alabama Department of Revenue via My Alabama Taxes (MAT).

    Official government source

    Free1–5 business days (online via MAT)

  2. Bloodborne Pathogen Training (per artist)

    All tattoo artists must complete an approved bloodborne pathogen training course before working in Alabama. Training must be renewed annually.

    Official government source

    $20–$80 per personHalf-day course

City of Birmingham / Jefferson County

2 stops

  1. Alabama Department of Public Health — Tattoo and Body Piercing Facility Permit

    Tattoo facilities in Alabama must obtain a permit from the Alabama Department of Public Health. Tattoo artists must complete bloodborne pathogen training. A facility health inspection is required.

    Official government source

    $100–$2002–6 weeks

  2. City of Birmingham License and Revenue Division — Business License

    Birmingham requires an Occupational License for all businesses operating within city limits. License fees are based on gross revenues. The License and Revenue Division processes applications. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $300–$1,000 · 3–8 weeks

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Official Sources

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