Trusted tattoo safety education. From the organization that's been here since the beginning — and still going strong.
The Leaders in Tattoo Training
APT offers two bloodborne pathogen training options for tattoo practitioners. Whether you're new to the craft or maintaining your annual certification, understanding which course is right for you matters — not just for compliance, but for your clients' safety and your professional standing.
New to tattooing? Starting an apprenticeship? Always start with the PDTT. The Online BBP Refresher is designed for experienced practitioners maintaining their annual certification — it is not a substitute for comprehensive initial training. That said, we always encourage every practitioner to go above and beyond with our PDTT course annually, because your clients deserve that level of care and expertise.
Health department employees are invited to attend the PDTT free of charge.
Bloodborne Pathogen Training for Tattoo Practitioners
Prevention of Disease Transmission in Tattooing (PDTT™)
The essential 5-hour, instructor-led bloodborne pathogen course designed specifically for tattoo practitioners and apprentices.
Online Bloodborne Pathogen Refresher Course
A self-paced 2-hour refresher course for experienced practitioners maintaining their annual certification.
Not valid in Florida.
Want to know exactly what each course covers?
Read the full course details below. ↓
Prevention of Disease Transmission in Tattooing (PDTT™)
The Essential Bloodborne Pathogens Course for Tattooists
The PDTT is APT's comprehensive, 5-hour bloodborne pathogen training course designed specifically for tattoo practitioners and apprentices. It goes far beyond minimum OSHA requirements — equipping you with the knowledge to protect yourself, your clients, and your practice every single day.
Health Department employees are invited to attend free of charge.
What's Covered:
The PDTT™ delivers extensive, in-depth coverage of:
- Prevention of Disease Transmission in Tattooing
- Microbiology & Disease
- Sterilization & Disinfection
- Bloodborne Pathogens & Communicable Diseases (3 hours dedicated)
- Aseptic Technique & Infection Control
This is not a basic overview. The PDTT goes far beyond minimum requirements to give practitioners a comprehensive, working knowledge of health and safety as it specifically applies to tattooing.
This course is for you if:
- You are new to tattooing or currently apprenticing
- You have never completed a comprehensive BBP course
- You want the most thorough, tattoo-specific safety training available
- You need Continuing Education credits
- You are a health department employee seeking tattoo-specific training
Course Details:
- 5 hours | Live via Zoom | Offered monthly
- Taught by a certified instructor with live Q&A
- Meets OSHA bloodborne pathogen training standards
- Counts toward Continuing Education credits
- Certificate of completion provided (5-hour course)
- Valid in all states
- Cost: $75
Online Bloodborne Pathogen Refresher Course
For Experienced Practitioners Only
The Online BBP Refresher is a convenient, self-paced option for experienced practitioners maintaining their annual certification. It provides basic coverage of key bloodborne pathogen topics specific to tattooing.
⚠️ This is NOT an initial training course. Apprentices and practitioners who have never completed a comprehensive BBP course should register for the PDTT instead.
⚠️ Not valid in Florida. Florida practitioners must attend the PDTT.
