Military Tattoo Policies (2024)

FAQs

Can the military deny you for tattoos? ›

The Army tattoo policy was updated and relaxed in 2022 but is still one of the most strict in the military. It prohibits any tattoos on the head, face, neck, wrists, hands, or above the t-shirt collar. Essentially, any visible body tattoos are prohibited.

Additionally, the Navy is the most lenient of the branches as far as tattoos are considered. So, if you have a lot of tattoos and want to join the military, the Navy will be your best bet.

Where's It Not Allowed. Army tattoo policy prohibits tattoos on the head, face, neck above the t-shirt collar, wrists or hands other than one ring tattoo per hand that must rest where a normal ring would. Army tattoo policy also states that leg tattoos must be two inches below or above the knee.

What are the restrictions on tattoo size and placement in the US Army's new policy for 2024? One visible tattoo on each hand, not to exceed one inch in measurement in all directions. Unlimited number of tattoos between the fingers as long as they are not visible when the fingers are closed.

Most armed forces allow waivers (i.e., exceptions to tattoo policies) for certain unauthorized tattoos, usually related to their size or location, for recruits and current service members.

You can have tattoos almost anywhere on your body, with a few exceptions. There are some limits to the size and number of tattoos on highly visible areas like the hands, neck, and behind the ears. Tattoos in the mouth, ears, or on the eyelids are not allowed. It's possible to get a waiver in some instances.

CIA Tattoo Policy

The CIA no longer rejects candidates because of their tattoos, but some limitations still apply.

The only places on the body that are off limits are the head, face and scalp. Tattoos on the torso are also allowed, but they must not be visible underneath whites.

Among the MILITARY MEDICINE, Vol. 178, August 2013 922 Military Tattoos Page 3 service branches, Marines reported the highest average number of tattoos at 5.8 (p = 0.02). The 122 respondents described a collective total of 516 tattoos.

– Unlimited tattoos between the fingers, as long as they cannot be seen when the fingers are closed. This also does not include the ring tattoo. – One tattoo on the back of the neck cannot be more than 2 inches in measurement. – One tattoo behind the ear no more than 1 inch and not to extend past the ear lobe.

Can FBI agents have tattoos? ›

Jewelry and Piercing Guidelines: All employees may only wear jewelry that does not interfere with the proper use of equipment, does not pose a safety hazard to the wearer, and is professional. Tattoos/Body Art/Branding: Tattoos, brands, and body markings are prohibited on the head, face, neck, tongue, lips, and scalp.

Recently, the U.S. Marine Corps has changed its policy, being more lenient with some tattoos. “Our tattoo policy over the years has attempted to balance the individual desires of Marines with the need to maintain the disciplined appearance expected of our profession.”

Size: The size restriction for visible tattoos is limited to the area of the neck and behind the ear only. As a result of this change, leg and arm tattoos can be of any size. Tattoo on the neck or behind the ear will not exceed one inch in measurement in any dimension (height/width).

The general rule is if your tattoo is visible on a passport photo it will be deemed unacceptable. Tattoos that are offensive or obscene, ie those that depict sex acts, violence or illegal drugs for example are a no-no. Tattoos on the hand and the back of the neck are now OK.

Air Force Tattoo Regulations

No tattoos or brands that are racist, vulgar, anti-government, graphically violent or affiliated with any gangs or outlaw organizations are allowed. If there is a question of whether a tattoo violates Air Force policy, the final decision is made by the soldier's commanding officer.

Hand, arm, leg, neck, and ring tattoos can be exposed and visible while wearing any uniform combination. Chest and back tattoos will not be visible through any uniform combination or visible while wearing an open collar uniform.

Defence Recruiting will assess whether your tattoo is acceptable on a case by case basis. If you have a visible tattoo then tattoo removal to join military services may be just what you need. And whether you want to join the navy, army or air force, laser tattoo removal will allow you to meet these strict standards.