Body Art

For an artist to practice at the Twin Cities Tattoo Festival, they must hold a current body art license from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).    

Those who do not have a full or temporary body art technician license from MDH must apply for a guest artist license. All guest artist license applications and payments must be completed online. MDH cannot guarantee that guest artist applications received on or after July 10, 2026 will be processed in time for the event.   

What you need to do

If you have a current guest technician license in the state of Minnesota for 2026, you will need to add the work dates to your guest body artist license that was previously granted for 2026. Follow these steps: 

1. Log into the Body Art Technician Licensing System.  
2. Under “Your Licenses” select “Adjust Work Dates.” 
3. Click “Next” until you are in the “Work Dates” section. 
4. Click “Add Another Work Period.” 
5. Enter in requested information and click “Next.” 
6. Answer the questions in “Questionnaire” section and click “Next.”  
7. Upload current proof of age and 2.0 hours of OSHA BBP training and click “Next.” 
8. Affirm application by adding signature and click “Finish.” 

You will receive a notice from MDH once the additional dates have been approved. The updated license will include the new work dates. 

If you do not have a guest artist license in Minnesota, follow the instructions below, apply for a new license at Body Art Technician Licensing System.   

What you need to know 

• All guest artists must have a current Minnesota licensed body artist to act as the sponsor.  
• The license will allow you to work up to 30 calendar days in the state through December 31, 2026.  
• The fee is $140 and is not prorated.  
• You must print your license in advance, bring it with you, and have it prominently displayed while at the event.  
• Additional information and guest artist requirements can be found at Body Art Technician Licensing.