Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Hilo, HI
Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Hilo, Hawaii County, Hawaii.
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 stopEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official government sourceFreeImmediate (online application)
Free
Immediate (online application)
State of Hawaii
2 stopsHawaii Department of Taxation — General Excise Tax License
Hawaii does not have a traditional sales tax but requires all businesses to pay a General Excise Tax (GET) on gross income from business activities. The GET rate is 4% (4.5% in Honolulu). All businesses must register for a GET license with the Hawaii Department of Taxation.
Official government source$20 (one-time registration fee)2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)
$20 (one-time registration fee)
2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)
Bloodborne Pathogen Training (per artist)
All tattoo artists must complete an approved bloodborne pathogen training course before working in Hawaii. Training must be renewed annually.
Official government source$20–$80 per personHalf-day course
$20–$80 per person
Half-day course
City of Hilo / Hawaii County
2 stopsHawaii Department of Health — Tattoo Shop Permit
Tattoo shops in Hawaii must obtain a permit from the Hawaii Department of Health. All artists must complete bloodborne pathogen training. Health inspections are required.
Official government source$100–$2502–6 weeks
$100–$250
2–6 weeks
County of Hawaii Finance Department — Business License
Hilo (Hawaii County) requires a County business registration and applicable permits. Contact the County Finance Department for business license requirements. 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
$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues
1–3 weeks
Terminus
Open for business — est. $300–$1,000 · 3–8 weeks
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