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SB 497

Tattoos and Piercings - As enacted, permits tattoo artists who have been licensed in this state for fewer than three years but licensed in another state for 10 years or more to receive a tattoo artist licensure in this state; requires the tattoo artist to provide the tattoo artist's signature on this state's tattoo apprenticeship completion application signifying that the apprentice tattoo artist has met the requirement of law. - Amends TCA Title 62 and Title 68.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Page Walley

Tennessee allows experienced out-of-state tattoo artists (10+ years licensed elsewhere) to skip the three-year in-state requirement to obtain state licensure, effective January 1, 2026.

Pub. Ch. 212
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Bill Summary · SB 497

Legislative bill overview

SB 497 streamlines tattoo artist licensure in Tennessee by allowing experienced tattoo artists licensed in other states for 10+ years to obtain a Tennessee license without the typical three-year in-state requirement. The bill also clarifies that licensed tattoo artists must sign off on apprenticeship completion applications to verify apprentices have met legal requirements.

Why is this important

This addresses workforce mobility and skilled labor shortages by recognizing out-of-state credentials, potentially increasing the supply of qualified tattoo artists in Tennessee and reducing barriers for experienced professionals relocating to the state. The apprenticeship verification requirement establishes clearer accountability in the apprenticeship completion process.

Potential points of contention

  • Reciprocity concerns: Some in-state tattoo artists may view the waiver of the three-year requirement as undermining local credentialing standards or disadvantaging artists who completed Tennessee's full apprenticeship
  • Out-of-state credential verification: Questions about how thoroughly Tennessee verifies 10+ years of out-of-state licensing and whether standards differ materially between states
  • Apprenticeship supervision gaps: The shift to artist sign-offs rather than state oversight of apprenticeship completion could create accountability issues if enforcement is weak

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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