Can I Get Tattooed Under 18 in California? 

If you are thinking about getting your first tattoo, you are probably wondering how old you need to be before you can book that appointment, even with a parent/guardian - licensed shops have a steadfast, cut-and-dry legal requirement. While tattoo age requirements vary between states, California’s rule is pretty simple: you must be at least 18 years old to get tattooed - there isn’t any parental signoff or anything if you are under 18.

This rule applies throughout California, including us, and every tattoo shop in Orange County. It also applies whether you want a tiny tattoo, a large custom piece, or something in between. 

In this little blog, we will explain California’s tattoo age requirement, whether parental permission makes a difference, and what you should bring to/do before your first appointment.

What Is the Legal Age to Get a Tattoo Then?

This isn’t just us; you must be at least 18 years old to get a tattoo in California, period. According to California Health and Safety Code Section 119302, a person must be 18 to be offered or receive a tattoo, regardless of parental consent.

California law also makes it a misdemeanor for an artist to tattoo or offer to tattoo someone under 18; we’ll talk more about this in a second. Because the law applies to the artist and the shop, any legitimate tattoo studio will verify your age before starting your tattoo.

Can You Get a Tattoo at 16/17 With My Folks?

No. Unlike some other states, California does not allow minors to get tattooed with permission from a parent or legal guardian. Even if your parent comes to the shop, provides identification, and signs off, the artist still cannot legally tattoo you before your 18th birthday, sorry.

There is no exception based on the tattoo’s size, design, meaning, or placement. Even a small tattoo requires you to be at least 18.

But, people sometimes confuse tattoo laws with piercing laws. California may allow certain piercings for minors when a parent or guardian is present, but those rules do not apply to tattoos. When it comes to getting tattooed, the minimum age is always 18.

If you are not old enough yet, use the extra time to think through your idea and research different tattoo styles. You can also begin looking through artist portfolios so that you know who you want to work with once you are able to book.

Don't Trust Your Friend With a Tattoo Gun...

A scratch tattoo usually refers to a tattoo done outside of a professional shop, often by an inexperienced or unlicensed person using makeshift equipment - don’t do them. Getting tattooed this way does not create a loophole around California’s age requirement, and tattooing anyone under 18 is still illegal, so they can still be on the hook. 

Scratch tattoos can also carry a much higher risk of infection, scarring, uneven linework, and exposure to contaminated equipment. Even if the tattoo seems small or simple, it is always safer to wait until you are 18 and work with a professional, licensed artist in a clean, properly regulated tattoo shop.

I Need An ID To Get A Tattoo, Right?

Yes. You should plan to bring a current, government-issued photo ID to your tattoo appointment; your ID allows the shop to confirm both your identity and your age. Common forms of identification include:

• A driver’s license

• A state-issued identification card

• A passport

• A military ID

A school ID or a photo of your identification may not be accepted here or anywhere in CA, so take care to make sure you have one of the above. An expired ID may also be turned away. We have to document this kind of thing for compliance, so it’s important to have what we need.

Even if you completed a booking form online or have already spoken with your artist, bring your physical ID with you. Any reputable tattoo shop will still need to verify your age in person.

Can Any Artist Decide Not To Tattoo You?

Being 18 means you can legally get tattooed, but an artist may still postpone or decline an appointment if you do not have an acceptable ID, are under the influence, or have a skin condition that could interfere with the tattoo. 

We may also suggest changing the size or placement of a design if we do not believe the original idea will heal or age well. An artist may also turn down a project that falls outside their style or experience, which is why it is important to choose someone whose portfolio matches the type of work you want. 

A good tattoo artist is not trying to make the process difficult. They want to make sure your tattoo can be performed safely and that you will be happy with the finished piece. An important part of that process is being able to trust your artist and their professional recommendations.

Okay, So How Do I Prepare For My First Tattoo?

Once you are old enough and have selected an artist, there are a few things you can do to prepare for your appointment.

Make sure you get a good night’s sleep, eat a full meal, and drink plenty of water beforehand - don’t drink alcohol, but a Tylenol if you think it’ll be painful. Wear clean, comfortable clothing that gives your artist easy access to the area being tattooed. 

Bring your photo ID, payment method (e.g., cash or card), and any reference images your artist has asked you to provide. If you have questions about the design, placement, price, or healing process, do not be afraid to ask!

I Need To Find The Right Artist, Right?

Before booking, take some time to look through the artist’s portfolio on our site. Tattoos are about trust, and sometimes you end up having an artist for a very, very long time. Pay attention to whether their style matches your idea, whether their linework and shading are consistent, and get comfortable with the idea. Yes, it needs to heal correctly, but that’s something the two of us have to care about - the artist can do it, but do the right treatment routine, don’t go swimming, etc. Give it about two weeks before you go for it. 

Our artists have worked in American traditional, fine-line, realism, portrait, Japanese, anime, lettering, and large-scale tattooing. Looking through our artists’ portfolios can help you find someone who is a good fit for your design.

You can learn more about what to look for by reading our guide on how to choose a tattoo artist.

How Do I Schedule at American Vintage Tattoo?

If you are 18 or older and ready to get started, come see us at American Vintage Tattoo. We’ll help you work through your idea, choose the right style and placement, and create a tattoo that fits what you are looking for.

Take a look through our artists’ portfolios and schedule your tattoo appointment today!