A resource for those people looking to obtain a tattoo apprenticeship in San Diego

Tattoo Apprenticeships – San Diego

San Diego, California

Competition - Medium
Current Progress
Current Progress
Competition - Medium

San Diego has an estimated 223 tattoo studios and we've rated competition for tattoo apprenticeships as 'Medium' 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 California 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 San Diego ….or Athens! Before applying, at Tattooing 101 we encourage all our students to take the time to prepare properly:

  • Portfolio of drawings
  • Mix of styles presented well
  • Tattoo certifications completed

For more detail read our comprehensive article on How to Get a Tattoo Apprenticeship.

Physically approaching tattoo shops in San Diego

There are approximately 223 tattoo studios in San Diego, 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 San Diego below:

Top Studios in San Diego

Name
Address
Rating

1453 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

4857 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107, United States

6561 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115, United States

3009 Myrtle Ave, San Diego, CA 92104, United States

6794 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92115, United States

1122 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

2323 Broadway UNIT 101, San Diego, CA 92102, United States

Top Studios in San Diego

Name
Address
Rating

1453 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

4857 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107, United States

6561 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115, United States

3009 Myrtle Ave, San Diego, CA 92104, United States

6794 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92115, United States

1122 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

2323 Broadway UNIT 101, San Diego, CA 92102, United States

Other Online Resources to find a Tattoo Apprenticeship in San Diego

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

Local Facebook Groups

Local Job Boards

Tattoo Licensing Laws & Certifications in San Diego

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!

Looking for a tattoo apprenticeship?

Tattooing 101's Artist Accelerator 90 day program is the closest thing to a real apprenticeship

  • 500 video modules
  • Professional tattoo artist coaches
  • Private mastermind community
AUTHOR
Nathan Molenaar

Nathan is a licensed professional tattoo artist with over 8 years’ experience working at studios across the globe, including Celebrity Ink, the world's largest tattoo studio chain.

When he's not tattooing, he spends his free time sharing his experience and knowledge with aspiring artists who dream of pursuing a career in the tattooing industry.

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