Thinking about getting inked before you can legally drive or vote? If you’re 16 and dreaming of your first tattoo, you’re likely wondering, “Can You Get A Tattoo At 16?” The answer isn’t a simple yes or no, and it largely depends on where you live. Tattoo laws in the United States are not governed federally, meaning regulations are set at the state level, leading to a patchwork of different rules and age restrictions.
For many teenagers eager to express themselves through body art, understanding these laws is the first step. Generally, the baseline across the U.S. is that you must be 18 years old to get a tattoo without any strings attached. This age is tied to legal concepts of adulthood, where individuals are considered capable of making informed consent and entering contracts – important aspects when considering a permanent body modification like a tattoo.
However, the story doesn’t end there. Some states recognize that minors, particularly those who are 16 or 17, may be mature enough to make this decision, especially with parental guidance. This is where parental consent comes into play. In several states, it is possible for 16-year-olds, and sometimes even younger minors, to get a tattoo if they have the explicit permission of their parent or legal guardian. This consent often needs to be more than just a verbal agreement; it frequently requires written notarized consent, the parent’s presence during the tattooing process, and proof of age and guardianship.
Navigating this legal landscape can feel complicated, but understanding the specifics for your state is crucial. This guide will break down the state-by-state regulations on minimum tattoo ages and parental consent, helping you understand if getting a tattoo at 16 is a possibility for you and what steps you might need to take.
Understanding Tattoo Age Laws in the U.S.: A State-by-State Guide
The legal age for tattooing in the United States is a matter of state law, not federal. This decentralized regulation means that the permissibility of tattooing minors, especially those aged 16, varies significantly across the country. While no federal mandate dictates a minimum age, most states have established their own laws to regulate the practice, primarily focusing on the age of consent for receiving tattoos.
The underlying rationale for these age restrictions often revolves around the legal principle that minors are not considered to have the full capacity to make informed decisions about permanent procedures. This is similar to laws surrounding contracts, medical treatments, and other legally binding agreements. However, some states acknowledge the role of parental or guardian consent in these situations, creating exceptions for minors who have the support and permission of their legal guardians.
Below is a detailed breakdown of tattoo laws across each state, specifically addressing the minimum age and whether parental consent is an option. This information is intended to provide a clear picture of the legal landscape and help individuals understand the rules in their specific location.
Alabama
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: AL Code § 22-17A-2
- Parental Consent Required: Yes, but with strict stipulations. A minor can get a tattoo if a parent or legal guardian provides written informed consent in the presence of the tattoo artist or their representative.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors are permitted to get a tattoo if they present their original legal decree and a government-issued photo ID.
Alaska
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: AS 08.13.217
- Parental Consent: No. Alaska has an outright prohibition on tattooing minors, even with parental permission. Exceptions are very limited and typically only for medical procedures or legally emancipated minors.
- Emancipated Minors: Laws regarding tattooing for emancipated minors in Alaska are not explicitly defined.
Arizona
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: A.R.S. 13-3721
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Parental or guardian consent is required, and they must be physically present during the tattooing process.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors are not exempt and also require the physical presence of a legal guardian to get a tattoo.
Arkansas
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Arkansas Code § 20-27-1502
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes, for ages 16-17. Minors aged 16 or 17 can get a tattoo with parental consent. They need to present a state-issued ID, birth certificate listing the parent, and have a parent present with their state-issued ID.
California
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: HSC § 119302
- Parental Consent: No. California has a strict prohibition on tattooing anyone under 18, regardless of parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation status does not override the age law; individuals must be 18 to get a tattoo in California.
Colorado
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Colo. Rev. Stat. § 25-4-2103
- Parental Consent Required: Yes, for ages 16-17. Parental consent is permitted for minors who are 16 or 17 years old.
Connecticut
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: C.G.S. § 20-266p
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Written parental consent is allowed for minors of any age.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors can get a tattoo if they provide their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
Delaware
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Delaware Code Ch. 243
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Minors under 18 can get a tattoo with prior written consent from a parent or legal guardian. Some studios may have additional requirements like notarized Minor Release Forms and photo IDs for both the minor and parent.
District of Columbia
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- District Law: D.C. Code § 47–2853.76e
- Parental Consent: No. The District of Columbia prohibits tattooing anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not change the age requirement; 18 is the minimum age to get a tattoo in D.C.
Florida
- Minimum Age: 16 years old
- State Law: Chapter 381, Section 00787 of the 2011 Florida Statutes
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes, for ages 16-17. Minors aged 16 or 17 can get a tattoo if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who provides valid ID and written notarized consent. The tattoo must be performed by a licensed artist. Tattooing anyone under 16 is prohibited except for medical or dental reasons by a licensed professional.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors must also be 18 to get a tattoo.
Georgia
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: O.C.G.A. § 16-5-71
- Parental Consent: No. Tattooing individuals under 18 is unlawful unless performed by a licensed osteopath or technician under a physician’s supervision. Parental consent is not an exception.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not permit tattooing under 18 in Georgia.
Hawaii
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Haw. Code R. § 11-17-7
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Written parental permission is required for anyone under 18. Consents must be kept on file at the tattoo shop.
Idaho
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (prohibition on minors under 14 is outright).
- State Law: Idaho Code § 18-1523
- Parental Consent Required: Yes, for ages 14-18. For individuals aged 14 to 18, parental or legal guardian presence and written consent are required. Some studios may have stricter policies, requiring clients to be at least 16.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors can get a tattoo if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
Illinois
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: 720 ILCS 5/12C-35
- Parental Consent: No, except in very specific circumstances. Tattooing anyone under 18 is prohibited unless performed by a physician or licensed technician under a physician’s supervision. Parental consent is not generally an exception.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not allow tattooing under 18 in Illinois.
Indiana
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Indiana Code § 35-45-21-4
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. A minor under 18 can get a tattoo if a parent or legal guardian is present and provides written consent.
Iowa
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (prohibition on younger, unmarried minors is outright).
- State Law: DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONS, APPEALS, AND LICENSING, §10A.531
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors can get a tattoo if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID. Parental consent for non-emancipated minors is not mentioned as an exception.
Kansas
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Kansas Code – 65-1953
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Written, notarized permission from a parent or legal guardian is needed, and the consenting adult must be present during the entire procedure.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not permit tattooing under 18 in Kansas.
Kentucky
- Minimum Age: 16 years old (prohibition on younger minors is outright).
- State Law: Title 902 Chapter 45 Regulation 065 Section 7
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Custodial parental or legal guardian written notarized consent is allowed for minors aged 16 and 17.
Louisiana
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: RS 14:93.2
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Tattooing someone under 18 is illegal unless they have permission from a parent or guardian who is present during the procedure.
Maine
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Maine Revised Statutes Title 32, § 4203
- Parental Consent: No. Maine prohibits tattooing anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not override the age law; 18 is the minimum age to get a tattoo in Maine.
Maryland
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Code of Md. Regulations, 10.06.01.06
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Written parental consent is allowed for minors of any age.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors can get a tattoo if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
Massachusetts
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Model Regulations for Body Art Establishments
- Parental Consent: No. Massachusetts prohibits tattooing anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not change the age requirement; 18 is the minimum age to get a tattoo in Massachusetts.
Michigan
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: MCL – Section 333.13102
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Written consent from a minor’s parent or legal guardian is required, given in person. The guardian must also provide proof of the minor’s birth certificate or legal guardianship to confirm their authority to consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors can get a tattoo if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID, as they are not considered “minors” under the law.
Minnesota
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: 2023 Minnesota Statutes 146B.07
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Parental consent is allowed for minors of any age.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not permit tattooing under 18 in Minnesota.
Mississippi
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Miss.Code Ann. § 73-61
- Parental Consent: No. Mississippi prohibits tattooing anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not change the age requirement; 18 is the minimum age to get a tattoo in Mississippi.
Missouri
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: RSMo Section 324.520
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Tattooing is prohibited for those under 18 without written consent from a parent or legal guardian in the presence of the tattoo artist.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not permit tattooing under 18 in Missouri.
Montana
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Tattooing and Piercing Establishments Administrative Rules Section 37.112.144
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Minors under 18 can get a tattoo if a parent or guardian is present to sign a consent form, provided they show valid IDs and birth certificates. Matching last names or documentation of name change/legal guardianship is needed, and the parent must stay during the procedure.
Nebraska
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Nebraska Revised Statute 38-10,165
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Parental consent is allowed for minors, and the parent or court-appointed guardian must be present during the tattoo procedure.
Nevada
- Information currently not provided in the source article.
New Hampshire
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 314-A:8
- Parental Consent: No. New Hampshire prohibits tattooing anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
New Jersey
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: N.J. Rev. Stat. Section 2C:40-21
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Tattooing a minor under 18 requires written permission from the minor’s parent or legal guardian.
New Mexico
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: HB 790
- Parental Consent Required: Yes, with specific conditions. For customers aged 17 or younger, a notarized consent form from a parent or legal guardian is required. This consent must be delivered in person by the parent or guardian, who must also provide a photo ID. Minors cannot deliver the consent themselves.
New York
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Section 260.21 of New York State Penal Law
- Parental Consent: No. New York prohibits tattooing anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not change the age requirement; 18 is the minimum age to get a tattoo in New York.
North Carolina
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-400
- Parental Consent: No. North Carolina prohibits tattooing anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not change the age requirement; 18 is the minimum age to get a tattoo in North Carolina.
North Dakota
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: N.D. Code § 12.1-31-13
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Parental consent is allowed for minors, and the parent must be present during the tattoo procedure.
Ohio
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 3730.06
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Parental consent is allowed for minors, with several requirements: a) parent must be present, b) sign a document explaining the procedure, c) present valid state IDs for both parent and minor, and d) provide a birth certificate linking them.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors can get a tattoo as they are considered independent and can consent to their own medical treatment.
Oklahoma
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Oklahoma State Department of Health Tattooing and Body Piercing Title 21 Section 842.1 et seq.
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Parental consent is allowed for minors, and the parent must be present during the tattoo procedure.
Oregon
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Oregon Health Authority, Health Licensing Office – Chapter 331-915-0065
- Parental Consent: Yes, but with conditions. Tattooing minors under 18 is allowed only if supported by a physician’s statement authorizing or recommending the procedure AND with parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not change the age requirement in Oregon.
Pennsylvania
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Pa. Cons. Stat. Title 18 § 6311
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Parental consent is allowed for minors, and the parent must be present during the tattoo procedure.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors may be exempt if they can provide legal documentation of their status.
Rhode Island
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: R.I. Gen. Laws Tit. 11. Criminal Offenses § 11-9-15
- Parental Consent: No, generally. Tattooing a minor under 18 is only permissible with a medical exemption.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not change the age requirement in Rhode Island.
South Carolina
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: S.C. Code § 44-34-100
- Parental Consent: No. South Carolina prohibits tattooing anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not change the age requirement in South Carolina.
South Dakota
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: S.D. Codified Laws Ann. § 26-10-19
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Minors under 18 need signed consent from a parent or legal guardian, and some shops may require notarization of this consent.
Tennessee
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (prohibition on minors 16 and older is for general tattoos).
- State Law: Tenn. Code § 62-38-211
- Parental Consent: Yes, but limited. Parental consent is allowed for minors aged 16 and above, but only for the purpose of covering up an existing tattoo and with parental supervision. General new tattoos are not permitted for minors, even with consent.
Texas
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (prohibition on younger minors for new tattoos).
- State Law: RULE § 229.406 – Texas Administrative Code; Laws in Texas for Tattoos: Minimum Age and Other Restrictions.
- Parental Consent Required: Yes, but limited to cover-ups. A minor’s parent or guardian can approve tattoo cover-ups for those under 18, especially for offensive content. For those 17 or younger needing a cover-up, a parent or guardian must be present. For new tattoos, even with consent, the minimum age is 18.
Utah
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Utah Code Ann. § 76-10-2201
- Parental Consent: No, generally. Tattooing a minor under 18 is only permissible if authorized or prescribed by a physician. General parental consent is not an exception.
Vermont
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Vt. Stat. Ann. Tit. 26 § 4101
- Parental Consent Required: Yes. Minors under 18 may get a tattoo with written permission from a parent or guardian.
Virginia
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Va. Code § 18.2-371.3
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. For those under 18, tattoos are allowed only with a parent or guardian present who has given approval. Without parental consent or medical supervision, individuals must be at least 18.
Washington
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Wash. Code § 26.28.085
- Parental Consent: No. Washington prohibits tattooing anyone under 18, even with parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipation does not change the age requirement in Washington.
West Virginia
- Minimum Age: None specified, but minors under 16 are prohibited.
- State Law: W. Va. Code § 16-38-3
- Parental Consent Required: Yes, for ages 16 and 17. Minors aged 16 and 17 can get tattoos if a parent or legal guardian is present, provides written consent, and shows a photo ID.
Wisconsin
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Wisc. Admin. Code Ch. SPS 221.10(1)(b)(3)
- Parental Consent: No, generally. Tattooing anyone under 18 is prohibited unless performed by a physician in their professional practice. General parental consent is not an exception.
Wyoming
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Wyoming Statute § 14-3-107
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Yes. Parental consent is allowed for minors with parental supervision.
Key Considerations for 16-Year-Olds Considering Tattoos
Even if you live in a state where it’s legally possible to get a tattoo at 16 with parental consent, there are several important factors to consider before making this decision. Getting a tattoo is a significant step, and it’s crucial to think beyond just the legalities.
1. Parental Consent is More Than Just a Signature:
In states that allow tattoos for 16-year-olds with consent, the process often involves more than just a parent signing a form. It may require:
- Notarized Consent: Some states mandate that the parental consent form be officially notarized, adding a layer of formality and verification.
- Presence During the Tattoo: Many states require the parent or guardian to be physically present in the tattoo studio during the entire procedure.
- Proof of Guardianship and Age: Studios will need to verify the parent’s legal guardianship and the minor’s age, typically through birth certificates, photo IDs, and legal documents.
This rigorous process is designed to ensure that the consent is genuine, informed, and given by someone with legal responsibility for the minor.
2. Tattoo Studio Policies Can Be Stricter Than State Laws:
It’s crucial to remember that state laws set the minimum legal requirements. Individual tattoo studios are within their rights to impose stricter policies. Many studios may choose not to tattoo anyone under 18, regardless of state laws or parental consent. This can be due to various reasons:
- Liability Concerns: Studios may want to minimize legal risks associated with tattooing minors, even with consent.
- Ethical Considerations: Some artists and studios believe that 16-year-olds are generally too young to make such permanent decisions, even with parental support.
- Studio Reputation: Maintaining a certain clientele and avoiding potential negative perceptions can influence a studio’s policies on tattooing minors.
Therefore, even if your state permits tattoos at 16 with consent, you must contact local tattoo studios to understand their specific policies. Don’t assume that because it’s legal, every studio will agree to tattoo you.
3. Maturity and Permanence:
Getting a tattoo is a permanent alteration to your body. While tattoo removal technology exists, it is costly, time-consuming, and can leave scarring. For a 16-year-old, what seems like a great idea now might not feel the same way in a few years. Personal tastes, styles, and even life goals can change significantly during your teenage years and early adulthood. Consider these questions carefully:
- Is this design something you will love long-term? Think about whether your chosen design reflects a fleeting trend or something genuinely meaningful to you that will endure over time.
- Have you considered future implications? Will the tattoo affect future career aspirations or personal goals? While societal views on tattoos are evolving, some professions or environments may still hold reservations.
- Are you making this decision for yourself? Ensure that your desire for a tattoo comes from within and is not influenced by peer pressure or fleeting trends.
4. Health and Safety Considerations:
Regardless of age, getting a tattoo carries health and safety risks if not done in a reputable and hygienic environment. For minors, these considerations are especially important:
- Infection Risk: Unlicensed or unprofessional tattoo artists, or unsanitary conditions, can lead to infections. Ensure the studio is licensed, clean, and uses sterile equipment.
- Allergic Reactions: Tattoo inks can sometimes cause allergic reactions. Discuss any known allergies with the artist beforehand.
- Long-term Skin Health: Tattoos are permanent and affect your skin for life. Consider the long-term implications for skin health, especially if you have any skin conditions.
Choosing a reputable, licensed tattoo studio and artist is paramount to minimize these risks, regardless of your age.
Conclusion: Is a Tattoo at 16 Right for You?
So, can you get a tattoo at 16? Legally, in some states, the answer is yes, with parental consent. However, the more important question is should you get a tattoo at 16? The legal possibility is just one piece of the puzzle.
For 16-year-olds eager to get inked, the path involves navigating state laws, studio policies, and most importantly, personal considerations of maturity and permanence. If you’re seriously considering a tattoo, take these steps:
- Research your state’s laws: Understand the specific regulations in your state regarding minimum age and parental consent.
- Discuss it openly with your parents/guardians: Have an honest conversation about your reasons for wanting a tattoo and be open to their perspectives and concerns.
- Contact local tattoo studios: Inquire about their policies on tattooing minors, even with parental consent.
- Choose a reputable studio and artist: Prioritize hygiene, safety, and the artist’s skill and experience over price or convenience.
- Think long-term: Reflect on the design, placement, and permanence of the tattoo and ensure it’s a decision you’ll be happy with for years to come.
Ultimately, getting a tattoo, especially at 16, is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of legal, practical, and personal factors. By being informed and thoughtful, you can make the best choice for yourself.
