What a consent form is for
A tattoo is permanent, and the skin is broken. The form records that the client knew the risks, answered honestly about their health, received aftercare instructions and agreed to the design and placement. If a client comes back with a reaction or a complaint, it is the first thing you will be asked for.
The rules depend on where you work
- Age: in England, Wales and Scotland it is an offence to tattoo anyone under 18, even with a parent’s consent (Tattooing of Minors Act 1969). Elsewhere a parent’s written consent may be allowed or required: check your local rules.
- Inks: in the European Union, tattoo inks carry a batch number on their label, and the artist gives the client the label’s information before the session (Regulation (EU) 2020/2081).
- Licensing and hygiene: many cities, states and countries license tattoo artists and premises, and some set what the client must be told in writing. Your local health authority is the place to ask.
The template
Consent before tattooing
Before your session, please fill in and sign this form. Your answers stay confidential and are only used for your safety.
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Phone
- Session date
- Placement
- Artist
- Design
- I am 18 or over.
- I have no skin condition on the area to be tattooed.
- I am not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- I am not taking blood thinners or any treatment that slows healing.
- I have no known allergy to inks, latex or aftercare products.
- I have not had alcohol or drugs in the last 24 hours.
- I have received written aftercare instructions.
I confirm my answers are true. I have been able to ask my questions, I approve the design and placement above, and I consent to being tattooed.
Client’s signature and date
Artist’s signature
Good practice
- Have the form filled in before the day: the client answers calmly, and you see a contraindication before setting up.
- Check a photo ID against the date of birth.
- Write the inks and their batch numbers on the form: if there is a reaction, you know what went in. See aftercare instructions.
- Keep the forms safe: they hold health data, which data protection laws treat with particular care.
Frequently asked questions
Is a consent form signed on a phone as valid as paper?
In most places an electronic signature is accepted when you can show who signed and that the document has not changed since. Check your licence conditions if they mention paper records.
How long should I keep consent forms?
As long as a claim could be brought, and as long as your licence or local rules require. Then delete them: they are health data.
