A tattoo apprentice is a student who learns everything they can from an established tattoo artist to become a professional licensed tattoo artist. The apprenticeship usually starts as a hands-off experience where the student is trained on safety, proper sanitation, and how to build a machine. The average apprenticeship takes about 2 to 3 years. During the apprenticeship, the student watches established tattoo artists work, learns the business, and learns how to make a career from their art. The daily routine of a tattoo apprentice includes:

• Keeping the shop clean and organized to health department standards.
• Being the receptionist and assisting anyone who walks through the front door.
• Running the shops social media accounts to advertise the artists and widen the audience.
• Running errands for the shop, such as shopping when theyre low on supplies or picking up lunch.
• Practicing tattoo techniques and developing their own styles while the experienced tattoo artists share their tips and tricks for tattooing and dealing with clients.

To become a tattoo apprentice, a high school diploma and artistic ability are required. Aspiring tattoo artists also need interpersonal skills because they work closely with customers while tattooing and helping them select body art, and they may perform customer service duties. Some tattoo artists who accept apprentices prefer applicants who have a portfolio of drawings or other works that demonstrate their artistic skills. Additionally, the student may need to undergo classroom training or take courses from their states health department on subjects such as safety and sanitation.