Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Honolulu, HI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Honolulu, Honolulu County, Hawaii.

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 Hawaii

2 stops

  1. Hawaii 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)

  2. 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

City of Honolulu / Honolulu County

2 stops

  1. Hawaii 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

  2. City and County of Honolulu Department of Budget and Fiscal Services — Business License

    Honolulu requires a City business registration and applicable permits from the Department of Planning and Permitting in addition to the state GET license. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    $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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