Tattooist in the state of Oregon are required to train under certain appointed teachers. These trainers may charge whatever they feel necessary to help these apprentices, whether they are established artists or not, to fill the requirements. A tattooist may have to pay thousands of dollars to be written off as finishing an apprenticeship even though they may have been a respectable professional for years. Then, the afore mentioned must take a state test dealing with dermatology and other aspects of aseptic procedure. This is completely misleading to the general public.
Most people believe that licensing accounts for technical skill.
On a recent trip to Illinois, I find that licensing has taken a toll on the industry. This doesn't include technicians license and zoning permits. At least the testing for piercers is practical from what I hear. Although this requirement is not set in stone yet, I wonder how legislation decided that APP membership should be required of piercers. For those of you who do not know, The APP is a not for profit organization dedicated to presenting a good and informative image to the public on body piercing and to link professionals to each other.