Can Tattoos Affect Military Enlistment?

I'm thinking about enlisting in the military after I graduate, but I want to get a couple of tattoos. Does anyone know if tattoos can affect enlistment eligibility or if there are certain restrictions?

Yes, tattoos can indeed affect your eligibility to enlist in the military, as each branch has its own tattoo policy. However, the specifics closely depend on which branch of the military you're considering.

For instance, the Army prohibits any tattoos that are extremist, indecent, sexist, or racist. The Army also disallows tattoos on the head, face, neck, wrists, hands, and fingers, except for one ring tattoo on each hand.

The Air Force policy is quite similar. It disallows tattoos on the head, neck, face, tongue, lips, and scalp. Tattoos that cover more than 25% of an exposed body part are also not acceptable. Further, the Air Force bans tattoos that are obscene or advocate sexual, racial, ethnic, or religious discrimination.

The Navy, on the other hand, tends to be a bit more liberal with their tattoo policy. They allow tattoos on the neck, behind the ear, and on the hands and fingers. They even permit one small tattoo per hand, but they still prohibit tattoos that are prejudiced or indecent.

The Marine Corps has specific size and locational restrictions for tattoos. For instance, they don’t allow tattoos on the head, neck, inside the mouth, wrists, knees, and elbows. They also limit the size of sleeve tattoos.

Therefore, I advise you to look into the specific branch’s policy you’re aiming to enlist in. In case your tattoos do conflict with these policies, all may not be lost. There might be grounds for a waiver depending on the nature and location of the tattoo. But remember, getting such a waiver is not guaranteed. You can discuss the matter with a local recruiter for more personalized advice.