Do you need a license to tattoo in NY state?

You must have a license to be a tattoo artist in most places. The license involves health regulations and making sure that there is no danger to the public through the spread of disease. Most states also forbid tattoos on minors.
It depends on your state and county laws/ordinances. Call your local county AND state health departments and ask if they require tattooists to be licensed to tattoo people in your state/county. Also go to the American red cross website and complete their program for certification in preventing the spread of bloodbourne illness for tattoo artists and body piercing. heres a link= https://www.redcrossonlinetraining.org/Distance/Default.aspx?CID=52 this is usually required if nothing else. bag everything you cant throw away after each client and learn all you can before doing a human other than yourself. get an apprenticeship if at all possible, you and your clients will be glad you did.