The U.S. Army has recently updated its tattoo policy, a move designed to streamline recruitment processes and better reflect modern societal norms. This updated directive significantly alters where soldiers can have tattoos, aiming to attract a wider pool of potential recruits and retain current service members.
Previously, individuals with tattoos on their hands, the back of their ears, or the back of their necks faced lengthy waiver processes, sometimes delaying their entry into service for weeks. Secretary of the Army Christine E. Wormuth officially signed the new directive, eliminating the need for waivers for tattoos in these specific locations, provided they meet size restrictions.
Soldier in uniform showcasing arm and hand after physical training, representing new army tattoo policy.
According to the updated regulations, soldiers are now permitted to have one tattoo on each hand, not exceeding one inch in any dimension. Additionally, a single tattoo, no larger than two inches, is allowed on the back of the neck, and one inch-long tattoo is permitted behind each ear. Small tattoos between fingers are also acceptable, as long as they are not visible when fingers are closed. These changes mark a significant shift in army tattoo regulations, acknowledging the increasing prevalence of tattoos, especially among younger demographics.
Major General Doug Stitt, Director of Military Personnel Management, emphasized the rationale behind the policy update. “We always review policy to keep the Army as an open option to as many people as possible who want to serve,” he stated. “This directive makes sense for currently serving Soldiers and allows a greater number of talented individuals the opportunity to serve now.” This adjustment reflects the Army’s commitment to remaining competitive in attracting talent in a changing social landscape where tattoos are increasingly common and accepted.
While these areas now have more lenient rules, the Army continues to maintain certain restrictions. Facial tattoos remain prohibited, and tattoos on the arms and legs are still allowed but must not be visible above the collar of the uniform. Soldiers are not permitted to use bandages or wrappings to conceal tattoos that do not comply with regulations. These standing rules ensure a level of professionalism and uniformity within the force, while still allowing for personal expression within defined boundaries.
Sergeant Major Ashleigh Sykes, the Army’s uniform policy sergeant major, highlighted the diverse motivations behind soldiers’ choices to get tattoos. “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 perspective underscores the evolving cultural acceptance of tattoos and the Army’s effort to adapt to these changes.
Data from Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) indicates that the previous policy was impacting recruitment. Through May 2022, over 650 waivers were filed for active duty and reserve recruits due to tattoos. David Andrews, TRADOC enlisted chief, noted that research shows 41% of individuals aged 18 to 34 have at least one tattoo. The previous waiver process, which could take up to 14 days, potentially led qualified candidates to consider other military branches with less restrictive tattoo policies, such as the Navy and Marine Corps.
The recommendation for these policy changes originated from Army Recruiting Command and TRADOC, reflecting a collaborative effort to address recruitment challenges. By reducing barriers related to tattoos, the Army aims to ensure that otherwise qualified individuals are not deterred from enlisting.
Importantly, the directive maintains standards regarding tattoo content. Designs must not include offensive, extremist, or hateful language or imagery. Company commanders conduct annual inspections to ensure tattoo compliance. Soldiers with non-compliant tattoos will receive counseling and have 15 days to decide whether to remove or alter them. Failure to comply could result in separation from service. While facial tattoos remain generally prohibited, exceptions may be considered for religious reasons, demonstrating a degree of flexibility in specific circumstances.
“[The directive] gives us the opportunity to put people in [the Army] right away that have these types of tattoos,” Andrews concluded. “We don’t want people walking away from opportunities in the Army who are otherwise qualified.” The Army’s updated tattoo policy signifies a strategic move to modernize its image, broaden its recruitment pool, and acknowledge the evolving expressions of personal identity in contemporary society, while maintaining necessary standards of conduct and professionalism.
