Q&A for How to Become a Body Piercer

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Question

How old do I have to be able to pierce someone?

Community Answer

Usually 18 in most areas to get licensed but look up your state's regulations for the accurate details relevant to your area.

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Question

Can I become a piercer without becoming a tattoo artist?

Community Answer

It depends on where you live. Some states require you to be both, while others stipulate that the practices must be separate. Check your state laws.

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Question

Should a tattoo artist have knowledge of tattoo removal also?

Community Answer

Absolutely. You are doing art on a person that lasts a lifetime. With new technology constantly evolving, a certain degree of removal is possible. Artists need to understand the details of various removal techniques and be able to convey to a customer what the procedures and options are.

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Question

Do I need a high school diploma/GED or to be a certain age to become a piercer?

Community Answer

Every state has different requirements. You must be a certain age, but not all states require a high school diploma or GED.

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Question

Can I be a piercer if I don't have any piercings myself?

Community Answer

Yes. The amount of piercings you have does not equate to ability or lack thereof.

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Question

Do I need to have injections to become a piercer?

Community Answer

Yes. To avoid any transmitted diseases, it is important to stay on top of your necessary vaccinations.

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Question

How old do I have to be to become an apprentice?

Community Answer

At least 18, though the business or particular piercer with whom you wish to apprentice may require you to be older.

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Question

Is there any cost to become a professional piercer's apprentice?

Community Answer

When you do an 'Apprenticeship Leading to Employment', you will pay a small fee in exchange for the knowledge the studio is giving you. If you're doing this type of apprenticeship, you will start earning a percentage of your piercing fees after a few weeks. It's a good idea to keep a second job during your apprenticeship.

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Question

How old do I need to be to take the safety classes and do an apprenticeship?

Community Answer

At least 18, though the business or particular piercer with whom you wish to apprentice may require you to be older.

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Question

Do criminal records preclude me from becoming a piercer or a tattooist?

Community Answer

Typically no, even felonies are okay. In some states though,you do have to disclose any criminal history on your license application. I had a misdemeanor on my record and I wrote the licensing board a letter explaining my charge and my actions taken and they didn't mention it on my license.

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Question

Can I take apprenticeships at different locations if I can't stay in one area?

Hannah Madden

Community Answer

Most states require you to have a certain amount of hours in one particular shop under a single mentor. If you have to move around, check the guidelines of the state you'd like to work as a piercer in. However, you may have to stay in one spot until your apprenticeship is over to get it to count.

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Question

If I took an EMT class, does that count for a CPR and first aid class?

Hannah Madden

Community Answer

Yes, you may be able to count your EMT class as your first aid class. Write a letter to the licensing board explaining what the class is and how it qualifies you to become a piercer. If they deem it as acceptable, you won't have to take a CPR or first aid class.

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