Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Indianapolis, IN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $300–$1,000 est. 3–8 weeks
Get my personalized route — $14.99

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 Indiana

2 stops

  1. Indiana Department of Revenue — Registered Retail Merchant Certificate

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in Indiana. Indiana charges a flat 7% state sales tax with no additional local sales tax. Register online via INBiz.

    Official government source

    $25 one-time registration feeImmediate (online via INBiz)

  2. Bloodborne Pathogen Training (per artist)

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

    Official government source

    $20–$80 per personHalf-day course

City of Indianapolis / Marion County

2 stops

  1. Indiana State Department of Health — Body Artist Registration

    Indiana requires all body artists (including tattooers) and studios to register with the Indiana State Department of Health. Each artist must complete bloodborne pathogen training.

    Official government source

    $50 (artist registration); $100 (studio permit)2–4 weeks

  2. Indianapolis Department of Business and Neighborhood Services — Business License

    Indianapolis (Marion County) requires a Commercial Zoning Certificate and may require a Business License depending on the business type. 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

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides