The U.S. Army has recently announced an update to its tattoo policy, a move that is making waves in both military circles and the tattoo community. This revised directive specifically addresses previously restricted areas for tattoos, including the hands, back of the neck, and, notably, behind the ears. For those in the tattoo industry and enthusiasts alike, the inclusion of the back of the ear as an approved location is particularly noteworthy, aligning with the growing popularity of discreet and stylish tattoos in this area.
U.S. Army Soldier showcasing allowed tattoo areas after updated policy, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Back of the ear tattoo now permissible for recruits.
This policy shift, formalized by Secretary of the Army Christine E. Wormuth, is not just a minor adjustment; it’s a strategic decision aimed at broadening the Army’s appeal to a wider pool of potential recruits. The updated regulations now permit Soldiers to have a single tattoo on each hand, not exceeding one inch in length, a tattoo no larger than two inches on the back of their neck, and an inch-long tattoo behind each ear. Additionally, tattoos are allowed between fingers, provided they remain concealed when fingers are closed.
Previously, individuals with tattoos in these locations faced a more cumbersome enlistment process. Waiver exceptions were mandatory, often leading to weeks of delays in processing. This change effectively streamlines the recruitment process, removing a significant hurdle for many talented individuals considering military service.
Maj. Gen. Doug Stitt, Director of Military Personnel Management, emphasized the rationale behind this update: “We always review policy to keep the Army as an open option to as many people as possible who want to serve,” He further stated, “This directive makes sense for currently serving Soldiers and allows a greater number of talented individuals the opportunity to serve now.” This statement highlights the Army’s proactive approach to adapting to societal norms and preferences, particularly among younger generations where tattoos are increasingly common.
Sgt. Maj. Ashleigh Sykes, the Army’s uniform policy sergeant major, offered insights into the diverse motivations behind tattoo acquisition. “Everyone has a different reason for getting a tattoo,” Sykes, who herself has tattoos, explained. “Some see it as art, some see it as individuality, and some may even have cultural tattoos. Tattoos are more [accepted] now; it’s a change in society.” This acknowledgment of tattoos as a form of personal expression and cultural relevance underscores the Army’s evolving perspective.
Data from the Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) reveals the practical impact of this policy change. Through May of 2022, over 650 waivers were filed for active duty and reserve recruits due to tattoos. David Andrews, TRADOC enlisted chief, noted the increasing prevalence of tattoos among younger demographics, citing research indicating that 41% of individuals aged 18 to 34 have at least one tattoo. The Army’s initial move to permit tattoos in 2015 was a step towards greater inclusivity, and this latest update further embraces individual expression.
The previous waiver process, which could extend up to two weeks, presented a significant bottleneck in recruitment. Sgt. Maj. Sykes pointed out that potential recruits might have opted for other military branches with less restrictive tattoo policies or simply lost interest due to the delays. The Navy and Marine Corps are known to have more lenient tattoo regulations, making the Army’s update a competitive move in attracting recruits.
Army Recruiting Command and TRADOC played a crucial role in advocating for these policy changes, recognizing the need to adapt to contemporary trends and remove unnecessary barriers to service.
While the updated directive expands permissible tattoo locations, it maintains certain restrictions. Facial tattoos remain prohibited, although exceptions may be considered for religious reasons. Furthermore, tattoo content is still subject to scrutiny, with offensive, extremist, or hateful designs strictly forbidden. Annual inspections are conducted by company commanders to ensure ongoing compliance with regulations.
Soldiers with tattoos that violate regulations are subject to counseling and given 15 days to decide whether to pursue removal or alteration. Failure to comply can lead to separation from service, underscoring the importance of adhering to the Army’s standards. Prior to this update, only ring tattoos were permitted on hands, highlighting the significant expansion of acceptable tattoo locations.
David Andrews emphasized the core objective of this policy revision: “[The directive] gives us the opportunity to put people in [the Army] right away that have these types of tattoos,” He concluded, “We don’t want people walking away from opportunities in the Army who are otherwise qualified.” This sentiment encapsulates the Army’s commitment to attracting and retaining talent by adapting to evolving societal norms regarding personal expression through tattoos, including the increasingly popular Back Of The Ear Tattoo.
The Army’s initial relaxation of tattoo restrictions in 2015, which removed limits on the number of tattoos on arms and legs, paved the way for this latest update. Staff Sgt. Matthew Hagensick, an Army Ranger and 2018 Soldier of the Year, is among those who joined the Army after the 2015 policy change, illustrating the positive impact of inclusive regulations.
This updated tattoo policy, with its specific inclusion of back of the ear tattoos, signifies a progressive step by the U.S. Army towards inclusivity and modernizing its recruitment practices, recognizing the evolving landscape of personal expression and striving to attract the best talent from a diverse population.
