Can You Join the Military if You Have Tattoos?
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. The military has specific guidelines and regulations regarding tattoos, and it’s essential to understand these rules before applying to join the military.
What are the Military’s Tattoo Policies?
Each branch of the military has its own tattoo policy, but there are some general guidelines that apply across the board. Here are the key points to consider:
- Location, Location, Location: The military is more concerned about the location of your tattoos than the size or number of them. Tattoos on the face, neck, hands, and fingers are generally not allowed.
- Size Matters: While the military doesn’t have a specific size limit for tattoos, larger tattoos may be viewed as a distraction or a security risk.
- Content Matters: Tattoos with offensive or inappropriate content, such as racial slurs, hate symbols, or gang-related imagery, are not allowed.
- New Tattoos: If you have a new tattoo, you may need to wait a certain period of time before joining the military. This is to ensure that the tattoo is fully healed and not a distraction.
Tattoo Policies by Branch
Here’s a breakdown of the tattoo policies for each branch of the military:
| Branch | Face and Head | Neck | Hands and Fingers | Size Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Army | No | No | No | 25% of body surface area |
| Navy | No | No | No | 15% of body surface area |
| Air Force | No | No | No | 25% of body surface area |
| Marine Corps | No | No | No | 15% of body surface area |
| Coast Guard | No | No | No | 15% of body surface area |
What Happens if You Have Tattoos and Want to Join the Military?
If you have tattoos and want to join the military, here are some steps you can take:
- Check the Policy: Research the tattoo policy for the branch of the military you’re interested in joining.
- Get a Waiver: If your tattoos don’t meet the policy, you may be able to get a waiver. This requires a medical evaluation and a letter from a doctor stating that the tattoo is not a distraction or a security risk.
- Wait: If you have a new tattoo, you may need to wait a certain period of time before joining the military.
- Cover Up: If you have a tattoo that’s not allowed, you may need to cover it up or remove it before joining the military.
Conclusion
Joining the military with tattoos is possible, but it’s not always easy. It’s essential to understand the tattoo policies for the branch of the military you’re interested in joining and to take steps to ensure that your tattoos meet the requirements. Remember, the military is looking for individuals who are committed to serving their country and upholding its values, and having tattoos that are not allowed may be a barrier to joining.
Additional Tips
- Research: Research the tattoo policy for the branch of the military you’re interested in joining and understand what’s allowed and what’s not.
- Consult a Recruiter: Consult with a military recruiter to get a better understanding of the tattoo policy and what you can do to meet the requirements.
- Get a Tattoo Removal: If you have a tattoo that’s not allowed, consider getting a tattoo removal procedure to remove the tattoo before joining the military.
- Be Honest: Be honest about your tattoos when applying to join the military. Lying about your tattoos can result in your application being denied or your discharge from the military.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I join the military with a tattoo on my face?: No, the military does not allow tattoos on the face, including the forehead, cheeks, and chin.
- Can I join the military with a tattoo on my neck?: No, the military does not allow tattoos on the neck, including the throat and neck area.
- Can I join the military with a tattoo on my hands or fingers?: No, the military does not allow tattoos on the hands or fingers, including the palms, fingers, and wrists.
- Can I get a waiver for my tattoos?: Yes, you may be able to get a waiver for your tattoos, but this requires a medical evaluation and a letter from a doctor stating that the tattoo is not a distraction or a security risk.
