Yes, you can have sleeve tattoos in the Army, but they must be above the t-shirt collar, meaning full sleeves that extend below the elbow (but above the wrist bone) are generally acceptable as long as the content is not offensive, gang-related, extremist, or obscene, though policies vary slightly between US and Australian forces, with US Army allowing some small hand/neck tattoos via waivers. New sleeve tattoos must comply with current rules, and you should always check with your recruiter for the most up-to-date US Army or ADF (Australian Defence Force) regulations before getting inked.
Army Tattoo Policy
Currently, the Army allows: Visible Tattoos: Tattoos are allowed on the hands, neck (1 inch or smaller), and behind the ears, as long as they follow the content rules mentioned earlier. Sleeves: Full-arm sleeves are permitted without limitations on size or number of tattoos.
While every tattoo will be treated on a case-by-case basis, the Australian Army isn't known for allowing offensive or obscene tattoo content. Examples may include nudity, gang symbols, marks of extremist nature such as Nazi symbols, or violence.
Tattoos that are offensive or obscene, ie those that depict sex acts, violence or illegal drugs for example are a no-no. Tattoos on the hand and the back of the neck are now OK. Most soldiers, however, keep their saluting hand clean out of respect. Tattoos on the head and face are unacceptable.
Tattoos in the mouth, ears, or on the eyelids are not allowed. It's possible to get a waiver in some instances. However, tattoos anywhere on your body that are extremist, racist, sexist, or otherwise indecent aren't allowed, no exceptions. See all tattoo requirements in the hair and appearance guidelines.
If you already have a tattoo that doesn't comply with Army regulations, you might still have options. Depending on the tattoo's location, size, and content, you may be asked to remove it. The Army provides some flexibility in this area, and they may give you the chance to correct the issue before enlisting.
Tattoos in the military cannot feature vulgarity, nudity, graphic violence, or any sentiments that could be considered racist, elitist, or anti-government. If the content of a military tattoo is in question, the decision is made by the soldier's commanding officer.
U.S. Army Tattoo Policy
As of 2025: Soldiers may have tattoos on the hands, neck (up to 1 inch in all directions), and behind the ears, as long as they are in good taste and not offensive. Face tattoos are prohibited, except for permanent makeup.
Extremist tattoos or brands are those affiliated with, depicting, or symbolizing extremist philosophies, organizations, or activities. Indecent tattoos or brands are those that are grossly offensive to modesty, decency, propriety or professionalism.
It used to be that service branches banned tattoos exceeding 25% of the body parts they decorated. There were also prohibitions on tattoos below the knees or ankles and separate policies for officers and enlisted.
A $2000 tattoo can range from a detailed half-sleeve to a large, intricate thigh or chest piece, or even the beginning of a full back or sleeve, often taking multiple sessions and significant artist hours (8+ hours) for complex designs, but it depends heavily on the artist's skill, location, and the design's intricacy.
Workplaces Tattoo Policies
Lorenzana opposed to lifting of tattoo ban for AFP personnel. MANILA -- Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana opposed the lifting of the tattoo ban for all military personnel. "Any good reason why we will lift it? We would like to keep it that way.
Personnel will roll sleeves neatly above the elbow but no more than 3 inches above the elbow. Upon approval of the commander and only during field training exercises, the sleeves may be down and cuffed inside the coat.
Certain medical conditions — such as asthma, diabetes, severe allergies, certain types of mental health disorders and heart problems — can disqualify individuals from joining the military due to the physical and mental demands of service.
Like mentioned previously, it really depends on the service and area. In my area for the Army tattoo ETP is usually a 72 hour turnaround. Dependency depends on the approval level but typically less than a week regardless. Shoot me a DM if you have any questions and don't want to put your business out there!
A "2%" tattoo often symbolizes affiliation with the Three Percenters (III%) movement, representing a belief in armed resistance against perceived government overreach, but it can also be misconstrued or linked to extremist ideologies, with some associating it with the infamous SS blood group tattoos for identification, though the original intent is political and militia-based.
It's fine. It's only distasteful to get a military tattoo when you weren't in the military and claim to have served.
444 tattoo symbolizes angelic guidance and support from Archangels Chamuel and Jophiel. Represents determination, hard work, love, and embracing change in life. Choose from various designs like 444 on the chest, wrist, with angel wings, or infinity symbol.
What can you do if your tattoo doesn't meet military standards? Laser tattoo removal is your best option for getting rid of unwanted ink that violates the military standard. While the military will not pay for your removal, many laser clinics offer military discounts.
The ADF has strict policies regarding personal appearance. The acceptability of tattoos and body piercings is accepted on a case-by-case basis by their Defence Force Recruiting. If you are considering getting a tattoo, read the ADF policy guidance as it may affect your application.
Now, visible tattoos on any part of the body excluding facial tattoos, have been permitted as long as they are not “indecent, extremist, sexist or racist.” Some popular tattoos include: Camouflage – Makes for the perfect sleeve. Red Beret – For members of the Airborne Division and usually combined with a skull.
Soldiers are permitted to have tattoos as long as they are not on the neck, hands, or face, with exceptions existing for of one ring tattoo on each hand, a tattoo on each hand, not exceeding one inch diameter, one tattoo behind the ear, not to exceed one inch in diameter, and permanent makeup.
The Navy has one of the most relaxed tattoo policies compared to the other military branches. Sailors can have neck and hand tattoos as long as they are not larger than one inch in diameter. Tattoos located behind the ears are also allowed.
Safety and operational effectiveness must be considered at all times. Tattoos. Tattoos, branding and scarification are permitted.