Are military tattoos allowed for service members?

I'm considering joining the military, but I have a tattoo that covers a large part of my arm. What are the current rules regarding tattoos in the military, and how strict are they? Would a tattoo restrict my career options?

Different branches of the U.S. military have specific policies regarding tattoos, and these policies can change over time, but I'll provide some general insight.

Army: As of current rules, the Army is fairly lenient. It allows tattoos on the arms, legs, and most of the body. However, tattoos on the face, neck, and hands (except a ring tattoo on each hand) are generally not allowed.

Navy: The Navy has some of the most permissive policies. It allows tattoos of all sizes to be visible while in uniform, which includes on the neck and behind the ears. As you might imagine, offensive, racist, or gang-related tattoos are prohibited.

Air Force: The Air Force permits tattoos on most of the body, but they cannot cover more than 25% of the exposed body part. Similar to the Army, tattoos on the face, head, neck, and scalp are restricted.

Marines: The Marine Corps has stricter policies. Marines cannot have tattoos on the head, neck, inside of the mouth, wrists, knees, elbows, and hands except for a single-band ring tattoo on one finger.

Space Force: As it currently adopts the Air Force's grooming and uniform regulations, the same tattoo rules apply.

Coast Guard: The Coast Guard allows tattoos that are not visible above the collar of the Coast Guard's operational dress uniform's crew-neck T-shirt.

The tattoo policy can be a deciding factor for which branch of the military you choose to join. In terms of restrictions to career options, this depends largely on the nature and visibility of the tattoo. If the tattoo contains offensive or discriminatory content, it could potentially pose issues. Similarly, if it's particularly large and is visible while wearing a uniform, it could potentially limit assignments, such as those in recruiting or ceremonial units which often require a conservative appearance.

It's advisable to discuss your tattoo with a recruiter. They can provide the most accurate information based on the specific military branch's current policies.