Can You Go into the Navy with Tattoos?
The United States Navy has a long history of having strict policies regarding tattoos, but in recent years, the rules have changed. If you’re considering joining the Navy, you may be wondering if your tattoos will be a barrier to entry. In this article, we’ll provide a direct answer to the question and explore the Navy’s current tattoo policy.
What are the Current Tattoo Policies in the Navy?
As of 2020, the Navy has relaxed its tattoo policies, allowing more sailors to join with visible tattoos. Here are the current guidelines:
- Sleeves and Full-Body Tattoos: Sailors with full-body tattoos, including sleeves, are no longer automatically disqualified from service. However, they may be required to cover their tattoos with a bandage or clothing during certain occasions, such as inspections or official events.
- Tattoos on Hands and Feet: Tattoos on the hands and feet are still prohibited, with some exceptions for medical conditions or religious beliefs.
- Tattoos on Face and Head: Tattoos on the face and head, including the neck, are still prohibited, with some exceptions for medical conditions or religious beliefs.
- Tattoos on Neck and Below the Elbow: Tattoos on the neck and below the elbow are allowed, but must be kept covered during inspections and official events.
What are the Exceptions to the Tattoo Policy?
While the Navy has relaxed its tattoo policies, there are still some exceptions to the rules. Here are some of the most common exceptions:
- Medical Conditions: Sailors with medical conditions, such as skin conditions or scars, may be exempt from the tattoo policy.
- Religious Beliefs: Sailors with religious beliefs that prohibit tattooing may be exempt from the tattoo policy.
- Prior Service: Sailors who have previously served in the military and have tattoos that were allowed during their previous service may be exempt from the tattoo policy.
- Waivers: In some cases, the Navy may grant waivers to sailors with tattoos that do not meet the policy guidelines. However, waivers are typically only granted for sailors who have a high level of expertise or a critical skillset.
How to Check if Your Tattoos are Allowed in the Navy
If you’re considering joining the Navy, you can check if your tattoos are allowed by using the Navy’s online tattoo assessment tool. The tool will ask you to upload a photo of your tattoos and provide information about the size, location, and design of each tattoo. The tool will then provide you with a decision on whether your tattoos are allowed or not.
What Happens if Your Tattoos are Not Allowed?
If your tattoos are not allowed in the Navy, you may still be able to join with a waiver. However, waivers are typically only granted for sailors who have a high level of expertise or a critical skillset. If you’re not granted a waiver, you may need to remove or cover your tattoos before joining the Navy.
Tips for Sailors with Tattoos
If you’re a sailor with tattoos, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Keep Your Tattoos Covered: When you’re not on duty, keep your tattoos covered with clothing or bandages to avoid drawing attention to them.
- Follow the Policy: Make sure you understand the Navy’s tattoo policy and follow it to avoid any disciplinary action.
- Consider Getting Your Tattoos Removed: If you’re having trouble getting a waiver or removing your tattoos may be difficult, consider getting them removed before joining the Navy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Navy has relaxed its tattoo policies, allowing more sailors to join with visible tattoos. However, there are still some exceptions to the rules, and sailors with tattoos must follow the policy guidelines. If you’re considering joining the Navy with tattoos, make sure to check the Navy’s online tattoo assessment tool and follow the policy guidelines. Remember, the Navy is a highly disciplined organization, and sailors with tattoos must be willing to follow the rules and regulations.
Table: Navy Tattoo Policy
| Tattoo Location | Policy |
|---|---|
| Full-Body Tattoos | Allowed, but may be required to cover during inspections and official events |
| Hand and Foot Tattoos | Prohibited, with some exceptions for medical conditions or religious beliefs |
| Face and Head Tattoos | Prohibited, with some exceptions for medical conditions or religious beliefs |
| Neck and Below the Elbow Tattoos | Allowed, but must be kept covered during inspections and official events |
Bullets: Key Points to Remember
• The Navy has relaxed its tattoo policies, allowing more sailors to join with visible tattoos.
• Sailors with full-body tattoos may be required to cover them during inspections and official events.
• Tattoos on the hands and feet are still prohibited, with some exceptions for medical conditions or religious beliefs.
• Tattoos on the face and head are still prohibited, with some exceptions for medical conditions or religious beliefs.
• Sailors with tattoos must follow the policy guidelines and keep their tattoos covered when not on duty.
• Consider getting your tattoos removed if you’re having trouble getting a waiver or removing them may be difficult.
