Navy Tattoo Policies and Regulations

The Navy tattoo regulations, updated in 2021, are now some of the most lenient in all military branches. Prior rules prohibited any neck tattoos and limited the amount of ink that could be shown on forearms or legs. New regulations allow unlimited tattoos on the legs, arms, neck, hands and behind the ears. The only places on the body that are off limits are the head, face and scalp. Tattoos on the torso are also allowed, but they must not be visible underneath whites.

Tattoo Content

 

What the Tattoo Means Can Be the Difference Between Getting Into the Navy or Not

Navy tattoo policy prohibits tattoos that contain discriminatory, indecent, racist, supremacist or racist elements, as well as tattoos that include sexually explicit images or promote lawlessness and violence. In other words — no gang affiliations, Confederate flags, graphic violence, exposed nudity and glorification of drug culture or anti-government statements. The ultimate decision about whether sailor tattoos violate Navy tattoo regulations is up to the commanding officers.

Other US Military Tattoo Policies

See US Army Tattoo Policy See US Air Force Tattoo Policy See USMC Tattoo Policy See US Coast Guard Tattoo Policy See US National Guard Tattoo Policy