10 Questions You Should Ask Before Starting a Tattoo Apprenticeship

So you want to be a tattoo artist? Sick. But before you say yes to an apprenticeship—or drop a few thousand bucks—you need to ask the right questions.

Why?
Because not all apprenticeships are created equal. Some are solid mentorships that launch great careers. Others are overpriced, abusive, or… let’s just say questionable.

These ten questions will help you spot the difference before you're scrubbing tubes for two years and learning nothing.

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1. How long is the apprenticeship, and what’s the structure?

Some shops keep apprentices indefinitely. Others run tight programs with clear timelines.
You need to know:

• When does training start?

• When will you begin tattooing?

• What benchmarks are expected?

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2. Will I be paying for this apprenticeship?

Tattoo apprenticeships can be free, trade-based, or cost thousands of dollars.
Ask:

• What’s included in the cost?

• Are there contracts or refunds?

• Will I still need to buy my own gear?

If you’re paying, get everything in writing.

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3. Who will actually be mentoring me?

You want a dedicated mentor
Ask:

• Who will I be learning from day-to-day?

• What’s their style, experience, and reputation?

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4. Will I get to tattoo actual people—and when?

Some apprenticeships never get past cleaning.
Ask:

• Will I tattoo practice skins only?

• When will I be allowed to tattoo live models?

• Who provides those models?

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5. Do I need to provide my own equipment and supplies?

Gear costs add up fast. Make sure you know what’s included—and what’s not.
Ask:

• Will I be using the shop’s equipment or my own?

• What supplies do I need to bring?

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6. Will I be licensed or certified by the end of this?

Some apprenticeships prep you for your state/province’s licensing process. Others leave you hanging.
Ask:

• Does the mentor help with paperwork and exams?

• Will I meet the health department’s requirements by the end?

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7. Can I speak with a current or former apprentice?

If they say no or get weird—run.
A good mentor has a track record of training artists and won’t mind you doing a little due diligence.

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8. What are my daily responsibilities?

Yes, you’ll be cleaning—but you should also be learning.
Ask:

• Will I shadow consults and sessions?

• Will I be drawing, prepping, cleaning etc?

• Am I allowed to work another job?

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9. How many other apprentices are in the shop right now?

Too many apprentices = not enough mentorship to go around.
You want a balance between community and access.

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10. What happens if things don’t work out?

This might feel awkward to ask, but it’s smart.
What if you need to leave? Or if the mentor ends the apprenticeship early?
Are there fees, contracts, or gear you’ll lose?

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Final Thoughts

Starting an apprenticeship is exciting—but it’s also serious.
You’re investing time, money, and trust. You deserve to know what you’re getting into.

Ask questions. Get clear. And make sure your mentor is just as committed to your future as you are.