Getting inked is a big decision, and understanding the rules around identification is key; so Can You Get A Tattoo With A Birth Certificate? At tattooat.com, we break down the ID requirements for tattoos, ensuring you’re ready to express yourself with body art legally and safely. We will explore the policies, emphasizing the importance of following age restrictions and ID guidelines to ensure a seamless and respectful tattooing experience.
1. What Identification Is Required To Get A Tattoo?
The state of Alabama, as well as many other states, mandates that tattoo clients present a current, unexpired government-issued photo ID. This ID must include your full name, photo, and date of birth. The necessity for a valid government-issued photo ID is crucial for confirming your age and identity before receiving a tattoo; photocopies or phone photos are not acceptable.
1.1 What Types Of Identification Are Acceptable?
Acceptable forms of identification typically include:
- Driver’s License
- Learner’s Permit
- Non-driver’s Identification Card
- Military ID
- Passport
- Out-of-country Driver’s License
- Mexico Voter Card ID
- U.S. “Green Card”
1.2 What Types Of Identification Are Not Acceptable?
Forms of identification that are not acceptable include:
- Photocopies
- Social Security Cards
- Credit Cards
1.3 What If I’m Over 18 But Don’t Have Identification?
Unfortunately, if you’re over 18 but don’t possess the required government-issued photo identification, you won’t be able to get a tattoo. Bringing a parent along with your birth certificate won’t suffice, as the state necessitates that you provide proper identification yourself.
2. How Old Do You Have To Be To Get A Tattoo?
In Alabama, as well as in most states in the USA, you must be 18 years or older to get a tattoo. The state mandates that individuals must be at least 18 years old to consent to their own tattoo. Cloud 9 and tattoo artists generally avoid tattooing minors for various reasons, including potential stretching of the tattoo as the minor continues to grow. Stretching can negatively affect the clarity of lines and details over time.
2.1. Is Parental Consent Enough For Minors To Get Tattoos?
No, even with parental consent, it is generally illegal for minors to get tattoos in Alabama. The law requires individuals to be 18 or older to make their own decisions regarding body modifications like tattoos.
3. What Do Minors Need To Bring For A Piercing?
For minors seeking piercing services, specific documentation is required to comply with Alabama state law:
- Biological Parent or Legal Guardian: Must be present. Permission slips or phone calls are not accepted.
- Minor’s Birth Certificate: Serves as documentation to prove the adult is the biological parent. If the adult is the legal guardian, official legal guardianship papers are required, including a notarization stamp or raised notarization mark (no photocopies).
- Parent or Legal Guardian’s ID: Must have a current, valid, non-expired government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, non-driver’s identification, passport, or military ID.
- Minor’s Photo ID: The minor must also have “published” photo identification that includes their first and last name and photo. Examples include a school photo ID, a laminated membership ID (organization/library/amusement park), or a yearbook with a clear face photo and full name as it appears on the birth certificate or legal guardianship documents.
3.1 Can An Older Sibling Or Other Family Member Provide Consent?
No, in Alabama, only a biological parent or legal guardian can provide consent for minors to get a tattoo or piercing. Legally emancipated minors can give their consent, but this is an uncommon situation. If you are legally emancipated, you must bring your original legal decree along with appropriate government-issued photo ID.
3.2 Can Legally Emancipated Minors Consent For Their Own Piercing?
Yes, legally emancipated minors can consent to their piercings, but emancipation is rare. They must provide their original legal decree and a government-issued photo ID for adults. The studio and piercer still have the discretion to decide whether to pierce a minor, considering each case individually. Age restrictions for each piercing type remain applicable.
4. Can I Go Swimming After Getting A Piercing?
It’s best to avoid swimming after getting a piercing, as moisture can cause healing complications. It’s recommended to wait at least three months before swimming or engaging in water activities after getting a piercing. Similarly, ensure hair is completely dry before going to bed at night.
5. What Type Of Jewelry Do You Use For New Piercings?
High-quality metals like implant-grade titanium jewelry are used for all initial piercings, as recommended by the Association of Professional Piercers (APP). Solid 14kt gold is also available in yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold. For some designs, implant-grade niobium, which offers similar healing qualities as titanium, is used. Outside jewelry is not used, only high-quality jewelry in perfect condition from reputable jewelers providing mill certificates to verify metal purity.
5.1 Do You Use Piercing Guns?
No, piercing guns are never used. Piercing guns use blunt force to shove jewelry into the body, which can be traumatizing to delicate tissue. Piercing guns cannot be sterilized, unlike the single-use sterile piercing needles used, which are disposed of immediately after use. Professionals using piercing guns often have less training in bloodborne pathogen prevention, proper piercing technique, and aftercare compared to professional body piercers.
6. Do You Pierce Babies’ And Children’s Ears?
Piercing babies’ ears is avoided, as personal consent for all body modifications, including piercings, is strongly believed in. Piercing is only performed on children aged 7+ who can consent and participate in aftercare. Babies cannot do this and are at risk for infection and poor outcomes. Ears are very small on infants and toddlers, so even slight placement discrepancies will become obvious as the child’s ears grow.
6.1 How To Prepare Children For Their First Ear Lobe Piercings?
A good way to prepare children for their first earlobe piercings is to sit down and watch videos with them. Show them videos of children getting pierced by a professional using a piercing needle, and let them see a video where the child shows some discomfort. It’s much better for your child to have realistic expectations and come in prepared and feeling brave. Don’t tell your child that the piercing doesn’t hurt or that they will barely feel it.
7. How Do You Sterilize Your Equipment?
Hospital-grade steam autoclave sterilizers are used. Many supplies are purchased as disposable, pre-sterilized, and packaged in single-use pouches that are opened in front of you. A SciCan Statim 2000 steam autoclave is also used for rapid sterilization of body jewelry. An indicator strip is inserted to verify that the autoclave reached the appropriate temperature to sterilize the contents for each cycle.
8. Do Piercings Hurt?
Piercing discomfort varies from person to person. A piercing is done swiftly, so the initial discomfort is brief. Most people say the area gets warm and tingly or numb shortly after it’s done. Discomfort often comes from what happens afterward, such as bumping it or not taking care of it properly.
9. Do You Use Numbing Solutions For Tattoos Or Piercings?
No numbing solutions are used, as effectively numbing the area would require an injection of prescription-grade Novocain or Lidocaine under the skin, which cannot be offered. Additionally, numbing agents can lead to healing complications in some cases. Topical numbing agents are used for microblading eyebrows and semi-permanent makeup tattoos.
10. What Kind Of Jewelry Do You Use For New Piercings?
Internally threaded or threadless implant-grade ASTM F-136 6AL 4V Eli Titanium, implant-grade niobium, gold, rose gold, and white gold jewelry are used for fresh and healing piercings. Both implant-grade titanium and niobium are used in various medical devices. All jewelry is properly sterilized in a hospital-grade steam sterilizer prior to use.
Alt Text: A skilled tattoo artist is shown carefully working on a client’s intricate arm tattoo in a clean, professional studio setting, emphasizing the precision and artistry involved in creating unique body art.
11. Can I Bring My Own Jewelry To Get Pierced With?
Sorry, outside jewelry is not used. The high-quality jewelry options provided are carefully chosen from reputable jewelers, made of high-grade, verifiable metals, and inspected to ensure a well-polished, smooth surface to maximize the potential for a healthy piercing and healing experience with an attractive outcome.
12. Do You Have Colored Metal Jewelry For A New Piercing?
Jewelry that has been painted or coated with different colors is not used. Instead, anodizing equipment is used in-house to safely change the surface tone of titanium or niobium jewelry with an oxidation process called anodization for a small fee.
12.1 What Is Anodization?
The anodization process involves placing your jewelry in an electrolyte bath and then sending an electrical current over it. This causes the surface of the jewelry to oxidize. Various colors of oxidation are achieved at different voltage levels. Anodized jewelry is safe for fresh and healed piercings.
13. Which Piercings Do You Offer?
Most piercings are offered unless they are associated with a high chance of poor outcome or unnecessary damage to the body. Piercings that are absolutely not done are: snake eyes on the tongue, cheek piercings, implants, or magnetic implants in the fingertips.
14. Will You Downsize The Post Or Barbell On Piercings That Were Done Elsewhere?
Yes, you can get assistance in your healing journey by downsizing the post or barbell shaft on your still-healing or healed piercing. Threadless and internally threaded APP-compliant labret posts and barbell shafts that are compatible with most reputable jewelry companies are available.
15. Can I Get A Piercing Or Tattoo While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?
No, you can’t get a piercing or tattoo while pregnant, as the body is investing energy and resources into growing a healthy baby. Getting pierced during pregnancy poses unnecessary risks to the unborn child. Waiting until at least three months postpartum if you do not breastfeed or six months if you do breastfeed is recommended.
16. Do You Offer Intimate Piercings (Nipples, Genitals)?
Yes, for ages 18+, the following are offered:
- Vulva piercings: Including horizontal or vertical clitoral hood (HCH, VCH), Christina piercing, as well as the vaginal labia (inner and outer).
- Penis/Scrotum/Perineum: Including Prince Albert (PA), Dydoes, Frenum, “Jacob’s Ladder”, Scrotum, Hafada, Lorum, Perineum, Guiche.
- Nipples
Alt Text: An intricate diagram showcases various piercing placements, highlighting the diversity and precision involved in modern body art and adornment.
17. Can I Get A Piercing Or Tattoo If I’m Taking Accutane?
If you are taking Accutane, an oral medication for treating cystic acne, it is advisable to wait 4-6 months after completing your treatment before getting a tattoo or piercing. Accutane makes the skin fragile and very dry, which increases the risk of complications during and after the procedure.
18. Do You Have A Female Body Piercer?
Yes, the studio is female-owned and managed. The studio owner is the Head Piercer with 19+ years of professional experience. The studio is an inclusive environment focused on providing excellent service and consideration to all clients, including trans and non-binary individuals.
19. Do You Do White Ink Tattoos?
No. White ink tattoos do not hold up well and tend to discolor unless the skin is very fair. The ink also tends to dissipate fairly quickly, leaving a blotchy tattoo that may be unrecognizable. White ink can be used for highlighting color or black and gray tattoos, but it will also lose some effect over time.
20. Do You Offer Tattoo Touch-Ups And Reworks?
Tattoo artists offer no-charge touch-ups to their clients for a limited time. The time frame can vary by artist, so it’s important to ask about their touch-up policy. Most artists are willing to offer tattoo reworks and brightening for existing tattoos done by other artists for a fee.
21. Do You Offer Cover-Up Tattoos?
Yes. Cover-up tattoos are done to hide or distract the eye from some or all elements of the original design. The success of a cover-up tattoo depends on the size, darkness, and thickness of the lines in the original tattoo. In some cases, laser removal services may be recommended to lighten the old tattoo before attempting a cover-up.
Alt Text: An impressive cover-up tattoo showcases how a new design skillfully obscures an older, unwanted tattoo, demonstrating the artistry and expertise required for effective tattoo modification.
22. Can You Tattoo Over Stretch Marks Or Scars?
Tattooing over well-healed scars and stretch marks is possible but needs consideration when designing the tattoo. Tattoo ink tends to spread out more quickly in stretch marks and scars, so it’s recommended not to put too much detail over the scar tissue itself. Scars and stretch marks should be very well healed for a couple of years (not raised or still red/purple) before attempting to tattoo over them.
23. Should I Expect Swelling?
Yes. Everyone will have some degree of swelling, though very small tattoos may have little that is virtually unnoticeable. Significant swelling can prevent detail from being well laid out because the skin puffs up and distorts the lines and shading. An additional session may be needed to complete the tattoo or touch it up.
24. Do You Have Experience Working On Darker Skin, Including African Americans?
Yes. A considerable percentage of clients have darker complexions. Artists can advise on ink colors that will be most visible short and long term on the complexion. Many people with darker skin may experience significant swelling with larger tattoos, especially in certain parts of the body.
25. Are You LGBTQ+ Friendly?
Yes. The studio is an inclusive environment focused on providing excellent service and consideration to all clients, including trans and non-binary individuals. Restrooms are private and non-gendered.
26. Can I Bring A Friend Or Family Member For Moral Support?
You can bring an adult friend to keep you company in the lobby, but clients cannot bring a friend or family member into the tattoo or piercing rooms at this time.
27. Can I Drink Some Beer Or Alcohol To Help Get My Nerve Up?
No. Do not drink before you come or within 48 hours of your tattoo or piercing. Drinking can make your skin more sensitive. It is also harder to sit completely still if you have been drinking. Alcohol thins the blood, which can cause difficulties with healing.
28. Should I Take Some Painkillers Or Muscle Relaxers Ahead Of Time?
No. Do not take painkillers or muscle relaxers prior to your tattoo or piercing. Some can cause excessive swelling, bleeding, or bruising, and make it harder to sit still and cooperate during the procedure.
29. How Do I Prepare In Advance For A Tattoo Or Piercing?
Eat a balanced meal within 4 hours of your tattoo or piercing. Drink plenty of water, starting at least 7 days before, if possible. Your body will handle the stress of piercing or tattoos better while hydrated and with normal blood sugar levels.
30. What Piercing Aftercare Products Do You Sell?
NeilMed Wound Wash Piercing Aftercare fine mist sterile saline is recommended and sold for healing piercings. This product is formulated to facilitate gentle cleansing and promote healing in fresh, healing, or irritated piercings.
31. Do Your Artists Use Vegan Tattoo Inks?
Yes, artists use vegan inks.
32. Where Exactly Are You Located?
The studio is located in the Crestwood Festival Center at 7001 Crestwood Blvd., Suite 416, Birmingham, AL 35210.
33. Are You Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes, the studio is disabled-accessible/wheelchair accessible and has a wheelchair-accessible restroom. There are wide hallways and doorways to make movement easier for all guests.
34. Do You Permit Service Animals?
Yes, in accordance with health department regulations, service animals that are trained to provide a service for persons with disabilities as outlined in the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) are permitted.
Conclusion: Navigating Tattoo ID Requirements
Understanding the requirements for getting a tattoo is essential for a smooth and respectful experience. Remember, at tattooat.com, we’re here to guide you through every step of your tattoo journey, from design inspiration to finding the perfect artist. Our comprehensive resources ensure you’re well-informed and ready to express yourself confidently.
Ready to explore the world of tattoos?
- Discover endless design inspiration: Visit tattooat.com and browse our extensive collection of tattoo designs.
- Find your ideal artist: Explore our curated list of talented tattoo artists and studios across the United States.
- Learn the essentials: Dive into our detailed guides on tattoo aftercare, styles, and safety.
Your dream tattoo is just a click away. Start your journey with tattooat.com today and bring your vision to life! Contact us at Address: 1825 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97201, United States. Phone: +1 (503) 725-3000.
FAQ: Addressing Your Tattoo Identification Questions
1. Can I use a birth certificate to get a tattoo?
No, a birth certificate alone is not sufficient. You need a current, government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license or passport.
2. What happens if I don’t have a photo ID?
Unfortunately, without a valid photo ID, you won’t be able to get a tattoo as per state regulations.
3. Are there exceptions for people over 18 without ID?
No, the state requires everyone over 18 to present their own valid photo ID, regardless of parental consent or a birth certificate.
4. What if my ID is expired?
An expired ID is not acceptable. Your identification needs to be current and valid.
5. Can I use a school ID?
Generally, a school ID is not accepted unless it’s explicitly listed as an acceptable form of ID by the state.
6. Is a temporary paper ID sufficient?
A temporary paper ID might be accepted, but it’s best to confirm with the tattoo studio beforehand.
7. Can I get a tattoo with a foreign ID?
Yes, an out-of-country driver’s license or a Mexico Voter Card ID are usually acceptable forms of identification.
8. What if my ID has a different address than where I live now?
As long as the ID is valid and hasn’t expired, a different address is generally not an issue.
9. Can I use a digital ID on my phone?
No, tattoo studios require the physical ID card in hand, not a digital version on your phone.
10. What if I have a disability that makes it hard to get an ID?
In such cases, it’s best to contact the relevant state authorities or a legal aid organization to explore available options for obtaining proper identification.
