Army Tattoo Rules

The United States Army has specific regulations regarding tattoos, which are outlined in Army Regulation 670-1. These rules are designed to ensure that soldiers present a professional and respectful image, both on and off duty. Understanding these regulations is crucial for anyone considering getting a tattoo, as well as for current soldiers who may be looking to add new ink to their bodies.

Introduction to Army Tattoo Policy

The Army’s tattoo policy has evolved over the years, becoming more restrictive in an effort to maintain a professional appearance. The policy applies to all soldiers, regardless of rank or position, and covers tattoos, brands, and body mutilation. It’s essential for soldiers to understand that the Army’s primary concern is the maintenance of a professional image, and tattoos that are deemed inappropriate can lead to disciplinary actions, including the possibility of being discharged.

Visible Tattoos

One of the key aspects of the Army’s tattoo policy is the visibility of tattoos. According to the regulations, tattoos or brands that are visible while wearing the Army Combat Uniform (ACU) or the Army Service Uniform (ASU) are subject to certain restrictions.

• Face and Neck: Tattoos on the face and neck are strictly prohibited. This includes any tattoos that are visible when wearing the Army uniform, which can include the face, neck, and those visible below the collar of a shirt.

• Hands: Tattoos on the hands are also subject to restrictions. While the rules may vary slightly depending on the context, as a general rule, tattoos on the hands are discouraged and may be subject to review.

• Other Visible Areas: For other visible areas of the body, the Army typically allows tattoos as long as they are not extremist, indecent, sexist, or racist. This includes tattoos that are visible on the arms when wearing short sleeves, though there are specific limitations on the size and placement of these tattoos.

Content Restrictions

Beyond visibility, the content of the tattoo is also crucial. The Army strictly prohibits tattoos that are:

• Extremist: Any tattoo that suggests affiliation with extremist groups or ideologies is strictly forbidden.
• Indecent: Tattoos that are considered indecent or could be deemed offensive are not allowed.
• Sexist or Racist: Tattoos that contain sexist or racist content are explicitly prohibited, as they do not align with the Army’s values of respect and inclusivity.

Process for Approval

For soldiers who have tattoos that may fall into a gray area or for those who are considering getting a tattoo, it’s essential to understand the approval process.

• Pre-Enlistment: For new recruits, any existing tattoos must be disclosed and reviewed as part of the enlistment process. Approval is required before a recruit can join the Army if their tattoos are questionable under the current policy.

• Post-Enlistment: For current soldiers, any new tattoos must comply with Army regulations. While it’s not always necessary to get official approval for every new tattoo, soldiers are advised to ensure that their tattoos do not violate any aspect of the policy.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with the Army’s tattoo policy can result in disciplinary actions, which can range from counseling to administrative separation from the service, depending on the severity of the infraction and the soldier’s record.

Conclusion

The Army’s tattoo rules are in place to maintain the dignity and integrity of the service, ensuring that all soldiers present a uniform and professional appearance. Understanding and adhering to these regulations is essential for a successful military career. While the rules can be strict, they are designed to align with the values of respect, professionalism, and inclusivity that define the United States Army.

Frequently Asked Questions