Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles has an estimated 181 tattoo studios and we've rated competition for tattoo apprenticeships as 'Extremely High' in this region. This competition has however been increasing. In the past few years as tattooing has grown in popularity, it has become harder and harder to find studios in Los Angeles and much of the West willing to take on apprentices.
What do I need before I apply?
Getting an apprenticeship within a tattoo studio takes solid preparation and hard work whether you're applying in Los Angeles ….or Athens! Before applying, at Tattooing 101 we encourage all our students to take the time to prepare properly:
For more detail read our comprehensive article on How to Get a Tattoo Apprenticeship.
Physically approaching tattoo shops in Los Angeles
There are approximately 181 tattoo studios in Los Angeles, and most will have 1-2 apprentices in the shop. Not every shop will have an open spot, so you will need to spend the time approaching each shop directly. Ideally, you want to start with known, high-quality shops and artists. Our team has compiled a list of the best shops in Los Angeles below:
Top Studios in Los Angeles
Name | Address | Rating |
|---|---|---|
8424 Santa Monica Blvd # B, West Hollywood, CA, 90069, United States | ||
1136 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038, United States | ||
4060 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019, United States | ||
7216 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046, United States | ||
11032 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604, United States | ||
1154 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States | ||
5503 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042, United States |
Top Studios in Los Angeles
Name | Address | Rating |
|---|---|---|
8424 Santa Monica Blvd # B, West Hollywood, CA 90069, United States | ||
1136 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038, United States | ||
4060 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019, United States | ||
7216 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046, United States | ||
11032 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604, United States | ||
1154 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States | ||
5503 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042, United States |
Other Online Resources to find a Tattoo Apprenticeship in Los Angeles
There are also a number of other places to check for a Tattoo Apprenticeship. We've gathered a list of the places that might help below
Tattooing Facebook Groups
Local Job Boards
Tattoo Licensing Laws & Certifications in Los Angeles
Although not absolutely required to get your apprenticeship, it's always a good idea to be proactive and understand the licensing laws and certifications
Visit Tattooing 101's Licensing Law & Certification Hub to learn more about California Tattoo licensing laws and the requirements needed to become professional certified.
What if I can't get an apprenticeship?
Is there another way into the tattoo industry?
Traditional tattoo apprenticeships do not suit everyone. The spots are limited and many people are unable to accept a full-time job without pay. The good news is there is another way to become a professional tattoo artist.
Tattooing 101 is the largest online tattoo artist education platform in the world, now with over 3,000 graduates - Turning beginners into professional tattoo artists within 90 days. Many of our students go straight into shops as paid artists or end up starting their own!
Hey Nate!! I'm looking for apprenticeships near my area!! Iv been doing the tattoo101 program and have been tattooing the past 6 months, im from La Puente CA, I was hoping to join the thread and post about myself see if there is anything available for me, but it says I have insufficient privileges, is there anything I can do to get it?
Hey Ashley! Oh no stress we can sort that out for you. Just email replies@tattooing101.com with the issue and we’ll fix it up 🙂