You cannot transfer a Washington tattoo license directly to Oregon — you must explore for a new Oregon tattoo license through Oregon's Health Authority

Washington and Oregon do not have a reciprocal agreement for tattoo licenses. Even though you are already licensed and working in Washington, Oregon treats you as a new applicant. You will need to submit an Oregon process, meet Oregon's specific requirements, and pay Oregon's fees. The process typically takes four to eight weeks from submission to approval.

The good news is that your Washington experience counts. Oregon recognizes out-of-state training and work history, so you will not repeat classroom hours or apprenticeship time. You are starting fresh with paperwork and fees, not starting over with training.

Key Takeaways

  • Oregon requires a new process even if you hold a current Washington tattoo license; the two states do not recognize each other's licenses.
  • You must submit proof of your Washington license, training hours, and work experience as part of your Oregon process.
  • Oregon's Health Authority processes tattoo licenses and charges a fee for the new license; the amount varies and should be confirmed when you explore.
  • Your process will be reviewed for compliance with Oregon's bloodborne pathogen training, facility standards, and safety requirements, which may differ slightly from Washington's.

What Oregon Requires From You

Oregon's Health Authority will ask for proof of your Washington license, your training documentation, and a record of your work hours. Gather your Washington tattoo license itself, any certificates from your apprenticeship or training program, and documentation of the hours you have worked as a licensed tattoo artist. If your training was completed in Washington, bring those records; if it was completed elsewhere, bring those instead.

You will also need to show that you have completed bloodborne pathogen training that meets Oregon's standards. Washington and Oregon both require this training, but the specific course or certification may differ. Check with the Oregon Health Authority about whether your current Washington certification transfers or whether you need to take Oregon's version before submitting your process.

Oregon requires that any facility where you work meet specific health and safety standards for equipment, sterilization, and workspace. If you are moving to work at an existing Oregon tattoo shop, that shop should already be compliant. If you are opening your own shop or moving to a new one, you will need to verify that the facility meets Oregon's requirements before you can be licensed.

How to Submit Your Oregon process

Contact the Oregon Health Authority's Health Licensing and Regulation section directly to request a tattoo artist process packet. You can reach them by phone or through their website. Ask specifically for the out-of-state applicant form, which is the correct version for someone transferring from another state.

Complete the process form, attach copies of your Washington license and training records, and include proof of your bloodborne pathogen training. Include a statement of your work experience — the number of years you have worked as a tattoo artist and the types of work you have done. Mail or submit the packet according to the Health Authority's instructions.

The Health Authority will review your process for completeness. If anything is missing, they will contact you and ask you to submit it. Once your process is complete, it enters the review queue. Processing typically takes four to eight weeks, though this can vary depending on the Health Authority's current workload.

Fees and Timeline

Oregon charges a fee for a new tattoo license. The exact amount changes and should be confirmed when you contact the Health Authority or receive your process packet. This fee is separate from any fees you may owe to Washington if you are maintaining your Washington license during the transition.

Plan for the process to take at least four to eight weeks from the date your complete process is received. Do not plan to work as a tattoo artist in Oregon until you have received your Oregon license in writing. Working without a license is illegal and can result in fines and loss of your ability to obtain a license later.

If you are moving to Oregon for a job, let your new employer know the timeline. Many shops understand that out-of-state transfers take several weeks and can plan your start date accordingly.

What Happens After You Are Licensed in Oregon

Once Oregon approves your process, you will receive your Oregon tattoo license. You can then work at any Oregon tattoo shop that is compliant with state health and safety standards. Your license will be valid for a set period — check with the Health Authority about renewal requirements and how often you will need to renew.

You may choose to keep your Washington license active or let it lapse, depending on whether you plan to work in Washington again. If you keep both licenses active, you will pay renewal fees to both states. If you are moving permanently to Oregon, you can let your Washington license expire after your Oregon license is approved.

If Your process Is Denied or Delayed

If the Health Authority denies your process, they will explain why in writing. Common reasons include incomplete training documentation, a facility that does not meet Oregon standards, or a gap in your bloodborne pathogen certification. You can address the issue and reapply.

If your process is taking longer than eight weeks, contact the Health Authority to ask about the status. Sometimes applications are held pending clarification on a specific document or requirement. A phone call can often move things forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to retake my bloodborne pathogen training for Oregon?

Not necessarily, but you need to verify that your current Washington certification meets Oregon's standards. Contact the Oregon Health Authority before you explore to confirm whether your existing training transfers or whether you need to complete Oregon's version. Some certifications are accepted across states, but Oregon may have specific requirements about the course provider or renewal date.

Can I work in Oregon while my process is being reviewed?

No. You must have your Oregon tattoo license before you work as a tattoo artist in Oregon. Working without a license is illegal. Plan your move so that you have your Oregon license approved before your start date at a new shop.

What if I completed my tattoo training in a state other than Washington?

Bring your training records from that state along with your Washington license. Oregon reviews your total training and experience, not just where you were licensed most recently. Document all apprenticeship hours and training courses, regardless of which state they were completed in.

Will I have to repeat my apprenticeship in Oregon?

No. Oregon recognizes your Washington work experience and training. You will not repeat classroom hours or apprenticeship time. You are submitting a new process, not restarting your training from the beginning.

How much does an Oregon tattoo license cost?

The fee varies and changes periodically. Contact the Oregon Health Authority directly or check their website when you request your process packet. They will tell you the current fee and whether it differs for out-of-state applicants versus new applicants trained in Oregon.