Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas.

Updated 2026-03-13 7 stops $1,175–$1,800 est. 6–12 weeks to obtain all permits and pass state and local inspections
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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 Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas DSHS Tattoo Studio License

    All tattoo studios in Texas must be licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) under Health and Safety Code Chapter 146. Applications are submitted online through the DSHS Regulatory Services Online Licensing System. DSHS will inspect the studio to verify compliance with sanitation, sterilization, infection control, waste disposal, and recordkeeping requirements. The license is valid for two years and is tied to the studio address.

    Official government source

    $927 (2-year license)4–8 weeks after application and DSHS inspection

  2. OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Training (per artist)

    Each tattoo artist working in the studio must complete an OSHA-approved Bloodborne Pathogen training course. This is a requirement for the state DSHS studio license. Training certificates must be on file at the studio.

    Official government source

    $20–$80 per person (online course)4–8 hours (online)

  3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Tattoo services are taxable in Texas. Retail merchandise sales (aftercare products, apparel) are also taxable. Register free with the Texas Comptroller. The combined rate in Fort Worth is 8.25%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Fort Worth / Tarrant County

3 stops

  1. City of Fort Worth — Health Permit for Body Art Establishment

    All tattoo studios in Fort Worth must obtain a Health Permit from the City of Fort Worth Code Compliance Department, Environmental Quality Division. A pre-opening inspection is required to verify compliance with sanitation, sterilization, infection control, proper waste disposal, and recordkeeping requirements. Contact Fort Worth Code Compliance at 817-392-1234.

    Official government source

    $250–$450 annually3–6 weeks (application, inspection, permit issuance)

  2. City of Fort Worth Fire Marshal Inspection

    The Fort Worth Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau must inspect the studio space before the health permit is issued. Inspectors verify fire suppression systems, fire extinguisher placement, emergency exits, and compliance with the International Fire Code.

    Official government source

    $75–$150 (inspection fee)1–3 weeks to schedule and complete

  3. Tarrant County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

    Required if operating the tattoo studio under any name other than your legal personal name. Filed with the Tarrant County Clerk. Valid up to 10 years.

    Official government source

    $23 (plus $0.50 per additional owner)Same day

Terminus

Open for business — est. $1,175–$1,800 · 6–12 weeks to obtain all permits and pass state and local inspections

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Official Sources

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