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In Florida, the rules for getting a tattoo are pretty straightforward but strictly enforced. Here is the breakdown of the age requirements and the paperwork you’ll need:

The Magic Number: 18

If you are 18 years of age or older, you can legally get a tattoo on your own. You just need to show a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license, passport, or military ID) to prove your age.

Ages 16 and 17: Parental Consent Required

You can legally get a tattoo at 16 or 17 years old, but there are several hoops you have to jump through first:

• Notarized Consent: A parent or legal guardian must sign a specific state-mandated form—the Written Notarized Consent for Tattooing of a Minor Child (DH 4146). This form must be notarized before you head to the shop.

• Parental Presence: Your parent or legal guardian must be physically present at the shop during the entire tattooing procedure.

• Identification: Both you and your parent must provide valid government-issued photo IDs. If your IDs have different last names or addresses, you may also need a birth certificate or legal guardianship papers to prove the relationship.

Under 16: Prohibited

Florida law strictly prohibits tattooing anyone under the age of 16. The only exception is if the tattoo is performed for “medical or dental purposes” by a licensed physician or dentist—so, unfortunately, that matching tattoo with your best friend will have to wait.

Important Tips

• Artist Discretion: Even if you have the paperwork, Florida law allows individual tattoo artists and shops to turn you away. Area 51 Studio reserves the rights to refuse to tattoo minors on “highly visible” areas like the face, neck, or hands, regardless of parental consent.

• The “Home” Tattoo Warning: It is a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida for an unlicensed person to perform a tattoo. Always ensure you are going to a licensed establishment with a licensed artist to avoid infections or legal trouble.