West Virginia regulates tattoo artists and studios through the state health department.
Licensing & Training
- Artists must be licensed by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.
- Completion of a bloodborne pathogens and infection control training course is required.
- Artists must work under a licensed studio.
Studio & Health Regulations
- Studios must obtain a Body Art Facility License and undergo regular health inspections.
- Strict sterilization protocols, including autoclave sterilization, must be followed.
- Studios must maintain records of all tattoo procedures.
Age Restrictions
- Minors under 16 cannot be tattooed under any circumstances. Minors 16-17 may be tattooed only with written parental/guardian consent given in person at the studio, with photo ID on file (W. Va. Code § 16-38-3).
For official regulations, visit the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.
