Where Can I Get A Tattoo At 17? The answer depends on the state where you reside, as tattoo laws regarding age and consent vary across the United States, impacting your ability to get body art. At tattooat.com, we provide the information and resources you need to understand tattoo regulations and connect with reputable artists, ensuring a safe and informed tattooing experience.
1. Understanding State Tattoo Laws
The legality of getting a tattoo at 17 hinges on state-specific regulations. Most states require individuals to be 18 years old to get a tattoo, but some states allow those younger than 18 to get a tattoo with parental consent or presence. Let’s break down the laws by state.
1.1. States Requiring 18 Years Old
Many states have a strict minimum age of 18 for tattoos. These states generally do not allow exceptions for parental consent.
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
1.2. States Allowing Tattoos with Parental Consent
Some states permit individuals under 18 to get a tattoo if they have parental consent. This typically involves a parent or legal guardian providing written consent and, in some cases, being present during the tattooing process.
*Florida: A minor that is 16 or 17 can receive a tattoo provided they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, who must present valid identification.
1.3. States with No Specified Age
West Virginia has no specified age. Individuals under the age of 16 are prohibited from receiving tattoos. Minors aged 16 and above may obtain tattoos provided that a parent or legal guardian is present at the tattoo studio, and they supply both written consent and a photo ID.
2. Detailed State-by-State Tattoo Laws
Here is an extensive state-by-state overview of tattoo laws, including minimum age requirements, parental consent stipulations, and relevant state codes.
2.1. Alabama
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: AL Code § 22-17A-2
- Parental Consent Required: The minor’s parent or legal guardian must provide written informed consent either in the presence of the person carrying out the tattooing or in the presence of an employee or representative of that person.
- Emancipated Minors: Legally emancipated minors in Alabama are permitted to receive a tattoo if they present their original legal decree along with a government-issued photo ID.
2.2. Alaska
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors).
- State Law: AS 08.13.217
- Parental Consent: It is illegal to tattoo a minor, even with parental permission. Exceptions may apply for medical procedures or if the minor is legally emancipated.
- Emancipated Minors: No specific laws regarding tattooing for emancipated minors in Alaska.
2.3. Arizona
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: A.R.S. 13-3721
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Parent or guardian must consent and be physically present.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors cannot get a tattoo without the physical presence of a legal guardian in Arizona.
2.4. Arkansas
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Arkansas Code § 20-27-1502
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Parental consent allowed for ages 16-17, though you are required to present a valid state-issued identification, your birth certificate that lists your mother or father, and have one of your parents present along with their state-issued ID.
2.5. California
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: HSC § 119302
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo in California because the law states you must be 18.
2.6. Colorado
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Colo. Rev. Stat. § 25-4-2103
- Parental Consent Required: Parental consent allowed for ages 16-17.
2.7. Connecticut
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: C.G.S. § 20-266p
- Parental Consent Required: Written parental consent allowed for minors.
- Emancipated Minors: Legally emancipated minors may get a tattoo if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
2.8. Delaware
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Delaware Code Ch. 243
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: If you are below the age of 18, you can get a tattoo provided your parent or legal guardian offers written consent prior to the procedure. Additionally, some tattoo studios may impose extra requirements, such as notarizing a Minor Release Form and presenting photo identification for both yourself and your parent.
2.9. District of Columbia
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- District Law: D.C. Code § 47–2853.76e
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.10. Florida
- Minimum Age: 16 years old
- State Law: Chapter 381, Section 00787 of the 2011 Florida Statutes
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: A minor that is 16 or 17 can receive a tattoo provided they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, who must present valid identification. Additionally, written notarized consent from the parent or legal guardian is required, and the tattooing must be completed by a licensed tattoo artist. Tattooing a minor child who is under 16 years old is prohibited, unless the tattooing is conducted for medical or dental reasons by an individual who is licensed to practice medicine or dentistry.
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo until they turn 18 years old.
2.11. Georgia
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: O.C.G.A. § 16-5-71
- Parental Consent: In Georgia, it is unlawful to tattoo individuals under the age of 18 unless the procedure is performed by a licensed osteopath or a technician working under the direct oversight of a licensed physician or osteopath. Parental consent is not permitted.
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.12. Hawaii
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Haw. Code R. § 11-17-7
- Parental Consent Required: It is unlawful to tattoo anyone under 18 years old unless their parent or legal guardian has provided written permission. All written consents must be stored at the tattoo shop for reference.
2.13. Idaho
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on minors under 14).
- State Law: Idaho Code § 18-1523
- Parental Consent Required: For individuals aged 14 to 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present and grant written consent for a tattoo. Nonetheless, certain tattoo studios may implement their own policies, which could include a requirement for clients to be at least 16 years old.
- Emancipated Minors: Legally emancipated minors may get a tattoo if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
2.14. Illinois
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent, except when the tattooing is performed by a physician or licensed technician under a physician’s supervision.).
- State Law: 720 ILCS 5/12C-35
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.15. Indiana
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Indiana Code § 35-45-21-4
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: A tattoo can be given to an individual under the age of 18 if the parent or legal guardian is present and supplies written consent.
2.16. Iowa
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger, unmarried minors).
- State Law: DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTIONS, APPEALS, AND LICENSING, §10A.531
- Emancipated Minors: Legally emancipated minors may get a tattoo if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
2.17. Kansas
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Kansas Code – 65-1953
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Written permission notarized from a parent or legal guardian is required, and the person who gives this consent must be present during the procedure.
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.18. Kentucky
- Minimum Age: 16 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors).
- State Law: Title 902 Chapter 45 Regulation 065 Section 7
- Parental Consent Required: Custodial parental or legal guardian written notarized consent allowed for minors.
2.19. Louisiana
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: RS 14:93.2
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: It is against the law for anyone to tattoo someone under eighteen unless they have permission from a parent or guardian who is present with them.
2.20. Maine
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: Maine Revised Statutes Title 32, § 4203
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.21. Maryland
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Code of Md. Regulations, 10.06.01.06
- Parental Consent Required: Written parental consent allowed for minors.
- Emancipated Minors: Legally emancipated minors may get a tattoo if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
2.22. Massachusetts
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: Model Regulations for Body Art Establishments
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.23. Michigan
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: MCL – Section 333.13102
- Parental Consent Required: A tattoo artist may not perform procedures on a minor without obtaining prior written consent from the minor’s parent or legal guardian. This consent must be provided in person and the guardian must also present proof of the minor’s birth certificate or legal guardianship to confirm their authority to consent.
- Emancipated Minors: Legally emancipated minors may get a tattoo if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID, as “an individual under 18 years of age who is not emancipated under section 4 of 1968 PA 293, MCL 722.4” is excluded under the definition of “minor”.
2.24. Minnesota
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: 2023 Minnesota Statutes 146B.07
- Parental Consent Required: Parental consent allowed for minors.
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.25. Mississippi
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: Miss.Code Ann. § 73-61
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.26. Missouri
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: RSMo Section 324.520
- Parental Consent Required: 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: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.27. Montana
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Tattooing and Piercing Establishments Administrative Rules Section 37.112.144
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Minors under 18 can get a tattoo with a parent or guardian present to sign a consent form, provided they show a valid ID and birth certificate. Both must have matching last names, or documentation of a name change or legal guardianship is needed, and the parent must remain during the procedure.
2.28. Nebraska
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Nebraska Revised Statute 38-10,165
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Parental consent allowed for minors, and the parent or court-appointed guardian must be present during the tattoo procedure.
2.29. Nevada
Laws regarding getting a tattoo in Nevada require you to be at least 18 years old to get a tattoo.
2.30. New Hampshire
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 314-A:8
2.31. New Jersey
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: N.J. Rev. Stat. Section 2C:40-21
- Parental Consent Required: Tattooing a minor under age 18 requires written permission of the minor’s parent or legal guardian.
2.32. New Mexico
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: HB 790
- Parental Consent Required: A body art establishment must verify that all customers are at least 18 years old before providing services. For customers aged 17 or younger, they must show a notarized consent form from a parent or legal guardian. This consent must be delivered in person by the parent or guardian, as individuals under 18 cannot deliver it themselves. Additionally, the parent or guardian must provide a photo ID.
2.33. New York
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: Section 260.21 of New York State Penal Law
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.34. North Carolina
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-400
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.35. North Dakota
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: N.D. Code § 12.1-31-13
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Parental consent allowed for minors, and the parent must be present during the tattoo procedure.
2.36. Ohio
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 3730.06
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Parental consent allowed for minors, and the parent must: a) be present during the tattoo procedure, b) sign a document explaining the procedure, c) present a valid state ID for them and the minor, and d) provide a birth certificate connecting the parent and minor.
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor can get a tattoo because they are considered independent and can consent to their own medical treatment.
2.37. 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: Parental consent allowed for minors, and the parent must be present during the tattoo procedure.
2.38. Oregon
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: Oregon Health Authority, Health Licensing Office – Chapter 331-915-0065
- Parental Consent: Tattooing services may be provided to individuals under 18 years of age only if supported by a physician’s statement authorizing or recommending the procedure and they have parental consent.
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.39. Pennsylvania
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Pa. Cons. Stat. Title 18 § 6311
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Parental consent allowed for minors, and the parent must be present during the tattoo procedure.
- Emancipated Minors: Emancipated minors might be exempt from these regulations if they can present legal documentation verifying their status.
2.40. Rhode Island
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent). Tattooing a minor under 18 years of age is only permissible with a medical exemption.
- State Law: R.I. Gen. Laws Tit. 11. Criminal Offenses § 11-9-15
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.41. South Carolina
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: S.C. Code § 44-34-100
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.42. South Dakota
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: S.D. Codified Laws Ann. § 26-10-19
- Parental Consent Required: If you are under 18, you will need a signed consent from your parent or legal guardian, and some tattoo shops may request that this consent be notarized.
2.43. Tennessee
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on minors 16 and older, except when covering up an existing tattoo).
- State Law: Tenn. Code § 62-38-211
- Parental Consent: Parental consent allowed for minors aged 16 and above with parental supervision only for the purposes of covering up and existing tattoo.
2.44. Texas
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent, except for covering an existing tattoo).
- State Law: RULE § 229.406 – Texas Administrative Code; Laws in Texas for Tattoos: Minimum Age and Other Restrictions.
- Parental Consent Required: A minor’s parent or guardian can approve covering an existing tattoo for those under 18, especially if it features offensive content. Clients must present a valid government-issued photo ID with their date of birth. For those 17 or younger, a parent or guardian must be present during the procedure.
2.45. Utah
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent). Tattooing a minor under 18 years of age is only permissible if authorized or prescribed by a physician.
- State Law: Utah Code Ann. § 76-10-2201
- Parental Consent Required: No tattoo or permanent cosmetic procedure may be performed on anyone under the age of 18, even if parental consent is provided, unless it is recommended or approved by a physician.
2.46. Vermont
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Vt. Stat. Ann. Tit. 26 § 4101
- Parental Consent Required: Minors who are under 18 years of age may receive a tattoo if they obtain written permission from a parent or guardian.
2.47. Virginia
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Va. Code § 18.2-371.3
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: To get a tattoo without requiring parental or guardian consent or medical supervision, individuals must be at least 18 years old. For those under 18, tattoos are allowed only in the presence of a parent or guardian who has given their approval.
2.48. Washington
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent).
- State Law: Wash. Code § 26.28.085
- Emancipated Minors: An emancipated minor cannot get a tattoo because the law states you must be 18.
2.49. West Virginia
- Minimum Age: None specified. Individuals under the age of 16 are prohibited from receiving tattoos.
- State Law: W. Va. Code § 16-38-3
- Parental Consent Required: Minors aged 16 and above may obtain tattoos provided that a parent or legal guardian is present at the tattoo studio, and they supply both written consent and a photo ID.
2.50. Wisconsin
- Minimum Age: 18 years old (outright prohibition on younger minors, even if they have parental consent, except when the tattooing is performed by a physician in the course of the physician’s professional practice).
- State Law: Wisc. Admin. Code Ch. SPS 221.10(1)(b)(3)
2.51. Wyoming
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- State Law: Wyoming Statute § 14-3-107
- Parental Consent and Presence Required: Parental consent allowed for minors with parental supervision.
3. Parental Consent: What to Know
If you live in a state that allows tattooing with parental consent, here’s what you need to know:
3.1. Written Consent
Most states require written consent from a parent or legal guardian. This consent must be provided before the tattooing procedure.
3.2. Presence of a Parent or Guardian
Some states require the parent or guardian to be present during the tattooing process. This ensures that the parent is fully aware of the procedure and consents to it.
3.3. Notarized Consent
Certain states may require the parental consent form to be notarized. This adds an extra layer of verification to ensure the authenticity of the consent.
3.4. Identification Requirements
Parents or legal guardians are typically required to present valid photo identification to prove their identity and relationship to the minor.
4. The Role of Emancipation
Emancipation is a legal process that grants minors the rights and responsibilities of an adult before they turn 18. However, even if you are an emancipated minor, some states still require you to be 18 to get a tattoo. Always check your state’s specific laws.
4.1. States That Recognize Emancipation
Some states allow emancipated minors to get tattoos if they present their legal decree or marriage certificate and a government-issued photo ID.
4.2. States That Do Not Recognize Emancipation
Many states do not make exceptions for emancipated minors and still require them to be 18 years old to get a tattoo.
5. Studio Policies and Discretion
Even if you meet the legal requirements for getting a tattoo, individual tattoo studios may have their own policies regarding minors. Many establishments may be hesitant to tattoo individuals under a certain age, regardless of legal permissions.
5.1. Reasons for Studio Reluctance
- Permanence of Tattoos: Tattoos are permanent, and studios may be concerned about minors making decisions they may regret later.
- Maturity: Tattooing requires a certain level of maturity, and studios may question whether a minor fully understands the implications.
- Past Experiences: Some studios may have had negative experiences with younger clients, leading them to adopt stricter policies.
5.2. Communicating with Tattoo Studios
It is always a good idea to contact the tattoo studio directly to ask about their policies and possibly arrange for a consultation before the procedure.
6. Safe Tattooing Practices
Regardless of your age, it is essential to choose a reputable tattoo studio that follows safe tattooing practices.
6.1. Choosing a Reputable Studio
- Licensing and Certification: Ensure that the studio and tattoo artists are licensed and certified by the relevant state or local authorities.
- Cleanliness: The studio should be clean and well-maintained, with proper sterilization procedures in place.
- Artist Experience: Choose a tattoo artist with experience and a portfolio of work that you admire.
6.2. Health and Safety
- Sterilized Equipment: Make sure that all equipment used during the tattooing process is properly sterilized.
- Single-Use Needles: Needles should be single-use and disposed of properly after each client.
- Aftercare Instructions: The tattoo artist should provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to prevent infection and promote healing.
7. Tattoo Aftercare
Proper tattoo aftercare is crucial for preventing infection and ensuring that your tattoo heals properly.
7.1. Immediate Aftercare
- Keep the Tattoo Clean: Gently wash the tattoo with mild soap and water 2-3 times a day.
- Apply a Thin Layer of Ointment: Use a tattoo-specific ointment or a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the tattoo covered and out of direct sunlight.
7.2. Long-Term Care
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
- Moisturize Regularly: Continue to moisturize the tattoo to keep it looking its best.
- Protect from Sun Exposure: Always use sunscreen on your tattoo when you are outdoors.
8. Finding Inspiration and Designs at Tattooat.com
At tattooat.com, we offer a vast gallery of tattoo designs to spark your creativity.
8.1. Exploring Different Styles
Discover various tattoo styles, including traditional, minimalist, watercolor, and more.
8.2. Personalized Recommendations
Get personalized design recommendations based on your preferences and interests.
8.3. Connecting with Artists
Find talented tattoo artists near you and view their portfolios to find the perfect match for your style.
9. Common Tattoo Styles
Understanding different tattoo styles can help you choose the right design for your personality and preferences.
9.1. Traditional Tattoos
Characterized by bold outlines and classic imagery, traditional tattoos are timeless and iconic.
9.2. Realism Tattoos
Realism tattoos aim to replicate images with incredible detail and accuracy, often resembling photographs.
9.3. Watercolor Tattoos
Watercolor tattoos mimic the look of watercolor paintings, with soft colors and fluid designs.
9.4. Geometric Tattoos
Geometric tattoos feature precise lines and shapes, creating visually striking and often symmetrical designs.
9.5. Minimalist Tattoos
Minimalist tattoos are simple and understated, focusing on clean lines and essential elements.
10. FAQ: Getting Tattoos at 17
Here are some frequently asked questions about getting tattoos at 17:
10.1. Is it legal to get a tattoo at 17 with parental consent?
It depends on the state. Some states allow it, while others do not.
10.2. What if I’m an emancipated minor?
Even if you are emancipated, some states still require you to be 18 to get a tattoo.
10.3. Can a tattoo studio refuse to tattoo me even if I have parental consent?
Yes, individual studios can have their own policies regarding tattooing minors.
10.4. What kind of identification do I need?
You typically need a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
10.5. What should my parent or guardian bring?
They typically need to bring their photo ID and proof of their relationship to you, such as a birth certificate.
10.6. What if my parents are divorced?
You typically need consent from the custodial parent or legal guardian.
10.7. Can I get a tattoo for medical reasons if I’m under 18?
Some states may allow tattoos for medical reasons with a physician’s recommendation.
10.8. How do I find a reputable tattoo studio?
Look for licensed studios with experienced artists and clean facilities.
10.9. What are the risks of getting a tattoo?
Risks include infection, allergic reactions, and scarring.
10.10. How do I take care of my new tattoo?
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist, including keeping the tattoo clean and moisturized.
According to research from Portland State University’s Art Department, in July 2025, understanding tattoo laws and studio policies is essential for a safe and legal tattooing experience.
At tattooat.com, we are dedicated to providing you with the resources you need to make informed decisions about tattoos.
Ready to explore the world of tattoos? Visit tattooat.com today to discover stunning designs, find talented artists, and learn everything you need to know about tattoo regulations and aftercare in the USA.
