Illinois tattoo waiver requirements
This guide explains what tattoo shops in Illinois must keep on record when performing a tattoo procedure.
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If you want a faster setup, our free tattoo consent form generator lets you create a digital Illinois-ready waiver in minutes. It covers the core client identity fields, signatures, medical disclosure prompts, and the extra tracking items Illinois records typically require, like pigment lot and expiration details, so you are not stitching together multiple forms.
Tattoo waiver requirements in Illinois
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, Body Art Code (77 Ill. Adm. Code 797), your permanent records must include the following:
Client information
The client’s name, address, date of birth, age, and a valid form of identification.
Procedure date
The date the tattoo procedure was performed.
Design & location
The design of the tattoo and the location on the body where it was applied.
Pigment details
The tattoo pigment manufacturer, dye lot number, and expiration date.
Military details
If the client is in the armed services, their branch, rate or rank, and serial number.
Artist information
The name of the tattoo artist who performed the procedure.
Signature
The client’s signature.
Special instructions
Any special instructions that are relevant to the tattoo procedure for the client, must be kept on record.
Medical history
Relevant medical history and conditions that could affect healing, including items such as diabetes, allergies, epilepsy, heart conditions, blood thinners, skin conditions, and pregnancy.
Record retention
Illinois requires the signed waiver documents to be retained with your other required records for no less than one year.
Source
Tattoo waiver and recordkeeping requirements in Illinois are defined by the Illinois Department of Public Health, Body Art Code 77 Ill. Adm. Code 797.
Illinois tattoo waiver overview on Instagram
We shared an Illinois recap on Instagram with a quick visual summary of the main documentation requirements.
Video walkthrough: Illinois tattoo waiver requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an Illinois tattoo artist refuse service?
Yes. The code explicitly states a body artist can refuse service to any individual, at any time, and for any reason. This is useful to reference in studio policy language inside your waiver or intake flow.
What are the consequences if my shop does not meet Illinois waiver and recordkeeping rules?
Illinois allows fines of up to $1,000 per day for each day the registrant remains in violation, and violations can also support certificate actions (denial, suspension, revocation) depending on the circumstances. Recordkeeping failures and failure to maintain required records are explicitly listed among violations.
Can the health department inspect my tattoo shop in Illinois?
Yes. The health department may inspect establishments as often as necessary to ensure compliance.
What has to be included in the aftercare paperwork, besides the aftercare steps?
The written public education materials must advise the client to seek medical care at the first sign of infection, and the documents must include the establishment’s name, address, and phone number. These documents are also expected to be signed and dated by both parties, with a copy provided to the client.
What counts as a “valid form of identification” document in Illinois?
A government-issued ID that includes a photo and birth date (for example: driver’s license, state ID, passport, military ID).
What are “special instructions,” and when do we need to record them?
Anything relevant to the specific client’s procedure or healing plan, such as: bandaging notes, placement constraints, touch-up plan, or aftercare modifications due to sensitivities.
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