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Are you able to get a tattoo after enlisting in the military?
Would you get in trouble for getting a tattoo after signing a contract, and are you able to get any tattoos while still serving in the military? Even if they are in they are in the safe area guidelines.
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Orlando’s Answer
Even while you're actively serving, you can definitely add more tattoos to your collection. Just remember to be wise about what tattoo you choose and where you place it. After all, you're a representative of your respective service branch, so make your choices count!
Loved reading this, thanks!
Ezekiel
Updated
Justin’s Answer
In the Navy, they've adopted a more lenient approach towards tattoos, which I believe started around 2017-2018, right when I was transitioning out. They've eased up on the restrictions regarding the number of tattoos you can have on your arms and legs. Moreover, you're even allowed to have a tattoo as large as one inch on your neck. So, yes, you can definitely get tattoos while you're serving, given that they don't promote drug use or contain any offensive content. The only period I recall being prohibited from getting tattoos was during DEP. However, once you've completed boot camp, you're free to get tattoos during your leisure time.
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Kevin P’s Answer
Hey Marco, generally speaking, the answer is yes… today. The military has changed its mind on this topic a few times over the years.
The military prides itself on having a professional appearance and therefore has limited this policy.
As it stands today, you can get additional tattoos but not on the hands, neck, or face.
When you first join you’ll record your tattoos. You can never get or have a tattoo that is gang related, obscene, or offensive.
Now this policy has also been known to be more relaxed in times of war. In 2003-2005 time frame we had members join with neck and hand tattoos. So this is always something that changes.
Lastly, certain unit are able to make this policy more strict. So depending on the unit you are in, additional restrictions could apply. Unit can make this policy more strict but cannot make it more relaxed.
I am covered in tattoos as well. So you’re asking the right questions. Just this question doesn’t always have the same answer.
The military prides itself on having a professional appearance and therefore has limited this policy.
As it stands today, you can get additional tattoos but not on the hands, neck, or face.
When you first join you’ll record your tattoos. You can never get or have a tattoo that is gang related, obscene, or offensive.
Now this policy has also been known to be more relaxed in times of war. In 2003-2005 time frame we had members join with neck and hand tattoos. So this is always something that changes.
Lastly, certain unit are able to make this policy more strict. So depending on the unit you are in, additional restrictions could apply. Unit can make this policy more strict but cannot make it more relaxed.
I am covered in tattoos as well. So you’re asking the right questions. Just this question doesn’t always have the same answer.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Marco,
After enlisting in the military, the rules regarding getting a tattoo can vary depending on the branch of service and specific regulations in place at the time. Generally, the military has guidelines and restrictions on tattoos to maintain a professional appearance and uphold discipline within the ranks.
Enlisting in the Military and Getting a Tattoo:
When enlisting in the military, recruits are required to go through a medical examination and complete paperwork, including signing a contract. The contract typically includes provisions regarding personal appearance, grooming standards, and regulations related to tattoos.
In the past, the military had stricter policies regarding tattoos, with some branches prohibiting visible tattoos altogether. However, over time, these policies have been revised to adapt to changing societal norms and recruit demographics. The current regulations generally allow for tattoos as long as they meet certain criteria.
Getting a Tattoo After Signing a Contract:
If a person gets a tattoo after signing their military contract but before entering active duty or attending basic training, they may face consequences depending on the specific circumstances. It is important to note that any changes to personal appearance made after signing the contract should be reported to the recruiter or appropriate military personnel.
The consequences for getting a tattoo after signing a contract can range from receiving counseling or disciplinary action to being disqualified from service altogether. The severity of these consequences depends on factors such as the size, location, content, and visibility of the tattoo.
Getting Tattoos While Serving in the Military:
While serving in the military, regulations regarding tattoos still apply. Each branch of service has its own set of guidelines that dictate what types of tattoos are allowed and where they can be placed on the body. These guidelines are designed to maintain professionalism, discipline, and uniformity within the military ranks.
In general, tattoos that are considered extremist, indecent, sexist, racist, or offensive are strictly prohibited. Additionally, tattoos that are visible while wearing certain uniforms (such as short-sleeved shirts or shorts) may also be prohibited. The specific regulations regarding tattoos can be found in each branch's respective uniform regulations or grooming standards.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
1. Department of Defense Instruction 1336.01 - "Guidance for the Administration of Military Awards"
2. Army Regulation 670-1 - "Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia"
3. Air Force Instruction 36-2903 - "Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel"
After enlisting in the military, the rules regarding getting a tattoo can vary depending on the branch of service and specific regulations in place at the time. Generally, the military has guidelines and restrictions on tattoos to maintain a professional appearance and uphold discipline within the ranks.
Enlisting in the Military and Getting a Tattoo:
When enlisting in the military, recruits are required to go through a medical examination and complete paperwork, including signing a contract. The contract typically includes provisions regarding personal appearance, grooming standards, and regulations related to tattoos.
In the past, the military had stricter policies regarding tattoos, with some branches prohibiting visible tattoos altogether. However, over time, these policies have been revised to adapt to changing societal norms and recruit demographics. The current regulations generally allow for tattoos as long as they meet certain criteria.
Getting a Tattoo After Signing a Contract:
If a person gets a tattoo after signing their military contract but before entering active duty or attending basic training, they may face consequences depending on the specific circumstances. It is important to note that any changes to personal appearance made after signing the contract should be reported to the recruiter or appropriate military personnel.
The consequences for getting a tattoo after signing a contract can range from receiving counseling or disciplinary action to being disqualified from service altogether. The severity of these consequences depends on factors such as the size, location, content, and visibility of the tattoo.
Getting Tattoos While Serving in the Military:
While serving in the military, regulations regarding tattoos still apply. Each branch of service has its own set of guidelines that dictate what types of tattoos are allowed and where they can be placed on the body. These guidelines are designed to maintain professionalism, discipline, and uniformity within the military ranks.
In general, tattoos that are considered extremist, indecent, sexist, racist, or offensive are strictly prohibited. Additionally, tattoos that are visible while wearing certain uniforms (such as short-sleeved shirts or shorts) may also be prohibited. The specific regulations regarding tattoos can be found in each branch's respective uniform regulations or grooming standards.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
1. Department of Defense Instruction 1336.01 - "Guidance for the Administration of Military Awards"
2. Army Regulation 670-1 - "Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia"
3. Air Force Instruction 36-2903 - "Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel"
Warren Lubow
More than 30 years in technology Industry with Over 20+ years at the Executive Level in Business Development & Sales, Also an expert in Automotive, Cloud, IoT, and more
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Warren’s Answer
any tattoos on the head, face, neck, wrists, hands, or above the t-shirt collar. Essentially, any visible body tattoos are prohibited. The only exception is one ring tattoo per hand where a regular ring would lie
https://veteransbreakfastclub.org/your-simple-guide-to-military-tattoo-policies-for-2021-2022/
https://veteransbreakfastclub.org/your-simple-guide-to-military-tattoo-policies-for-2021-2022/
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Gabriel’s Answer
You can definitely get all the tattoos you want but make sure you follow your chosen branch's guidelines!
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ricardo’s Answer
Hey Marco, that's an excellent query! Tattoos have become quite popular in today's world, and even more so in the military. Yes, you can definitely get tattoos while serving. However, there are some rules about where and how big they can be, and these rules can vary depending on the military branch you're in. Some branches are more flexible than others when it comes to tattoos. If tattoos are something you're passionate about, I'd strongly suggest having a chat with a recruiter. They can tell you all about their branch's tattoo policies, helping you to make the best choice for your needs.