Can I Have a Tattoo in the Air Force?
The United States Air Force has strict guidelines regarding tattoos, and it’s essential to understand what is allowed and what is not before joining the service. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the Air Force’s tattoo policies and help you determine whether you can have a tattoo in the Air Force.
What are the General Guidelines?
The Air Force has two main categories for tattoos: Authorized and Unauthorized. Authorized tattoos are those that are specifically approved by the Air Force, while Unauthorized tattoos are those that do not meet the Air Force’s standards.
Authorized Tattoos:
The Air Force allows certain tattoos on the following areas:
- Small tattoos on the hands and feet: These must be small (less than 1/4 inch in diameter) and not visible when wearing gloves or shoes.
- Tattoos on the arms and legs: These must be below the elbow and knee, respectively.
- Tattoos on the neck: These must be below the earlobe.
- Tattoos on the head: These must be above the eyebrows and not visible when wearing a military uniform.
Unauthorized Tattoos:
The Air Force does not allow tattoos on the following areas:
- Face: This includes the forehead, eyebrows, nose, lips, and ears.
- Neck above the earlobe: This includes the area from the earlobe to the base of the skull.
- Head: This includes the scalp, behind the ears, and on the sides of the head.
- Hands and feet: This includes the entire surface of the hands and feet, except for small tattoos on the fingers and toes.
- Bikini line: This includes the area from the top of the pubic bone to the bottom of the navel.
- Ankles and wrists: This includes the entire surface of the ankles and wrists.
What About Sleeve Tattoos?
Sleeve tattoos, which cover the entire arm or leg, are Unauthorized in the Air Force. However, if you have a sleeve tattoo, you may be able to have it modified to meet Air Force standards. For example, you may be able to remove or cover the tattoo with a bandage or makeup.
What About Color?
The Air Force allows black and gray tattoos, but not colorful ones. This means that you can have tattoos with subtle shading and tone, but not bright colors or neon hues.
What About Size?
The Air Force has specific guidelines for tattoo size. Small tattoos are defined as those that are less than 1/4 inch in diameter. Medium tattoos are defined as those that are between 1/4 inch and 1 inch in diameter. Large tattoos are defined as those that are larger than 1 inch in diameter.
What About Cover-Ups?
If you have an Unauthorized tattoo, you may be able to get a cover-up tattoo to meet Air Force standards. A cover-up tattoo is a new tattoo that covers the entire Unauthorized tattoo. The Air Force requires that the cover-up tattoo be approved by a medical officer or a tattoo artist who is authorized to perform cover-up tattoos.
What About Piercings?
The Air Force allows certain piercings, including:
- Ear piercings: These must be no larger than 1/4 inch in diameter.
- Nose piercings: These must be no larger than 1/4 inch in diameter.
- Tongue piercings: These are not allowed.
What About Scars?
The Air Force does not consider scars to be tattoos, so they are not subject to the same guidelines. However, if you have a scar that is extensive or disfiguring, you may be required to have it evaluated by a medical officer.
Conclusion
Having a tattoo in the Air Force can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By understanding the Air Force’s guidelines and standards, you can determine whether you can have a tattoo in the Air Force. Remember to always follow the rules and guidelines, and to seek approval from a medical officer or tattoo artist before getting a tattoo.
Table: Air Force Tattoo Guidelines
| Area | Authorized | Unauthorized |
|---|---|---|
| Hands and feet | Small tattoos | Full surface |
| Arms and legs | Below elbow and knee | Above elbow and knee |
| Neck | Below earlobe | Above earlobe |
| Head | Above eyebrows | Scalp, behind ears, sides of head |
| Face | Forehead, eyebrows, nose, lips, ears | |
| Bikini line | Pubic bone to navel | |
| Ankles and wrists | Full surface | |
| Color | Black and gray | Colorful |
| Size | Small, medium, large | |
| Cover-ups | Yes, with approval | No |
| Piercings | Ear, nose | Tongue |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get a tattoo in the Air Force if I have a small tattoo on my hand or foot?
A: Yes, as long as the tattoo is small (less than 1/4 inch in diameter) and not visible when wearing gloves or shoes.
Q: Can I get a tattoo on my neck if I’m in the Air Force?
A: Yes, as long as the tattoo is below the earlobe.
Q: Can I have a colorful tattoo in the Air Force?
A: No, the Air Force only allows black and gray tattoos.
Q: Can I get a cover-up tattoo to meet Air Force standards?
A: Yes, but you must get approval from a medical officer or tattoo artist first.
Q: Can I have piercings in the Air Force?
A: Yes, but only certain piercings are allowed, such as ear and nose piercings. Tongue piercings are not allowed.
