Tattoo Restrictions For Air Force

Longer Hair And Scalp Tattoos: Air Force’s Dress

The Air Force loosened its tattoo policy in 2017 with the goal of opening the door to more young recruits who likely came with more body art. But tattoos on the neck, face and scalp remained prohibited.

Male airmen will be allowed to tattoo their scalps and grow their hair half an inch longer under an update to Air Force dress-and-appearance standards taking effect in October.

The service is also doing away with some restrictions that micromanage specific behavior while in uniform such as putting hands in pockets or talking on a cellphone while walking.

The updates come after testing and feedback from airmen and reviews by the 2020 Air Force Uniform Board, the service said in a news release Tuesday.

More than 30 recommendations from the board were approved for implementation in the field, according to the release.

During this most recent review we approved several updates fully aligned with our Air Force standards and culture that maintain our focus on warfighting while providing options to meet many of the needs of our Airmen, Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, Air Force deputy chief of staff for manpower, personnel and services, said in the release.

Some of the changes to be updated this fall in Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Appearance of Air Force Personnel, are:

Bulk hair standards for men will increase from 2 inches to 2.5 inches

Men will be authorized for cosmetic tattooing on the scalp

Hosiery will be optional for women with any combination of dress uniform

Will The Air Force Pay To Remove Tattoos

The Department of Defense recently passed rules that stipulate the military will not cover expenses related to tattoo removal.

The only exception is if a commanding officer orders the removal, in which the soldier may potentially receive compensation if he or she is struggling to finance the operation.

Your best bet to get a tattoo removed the right way is laser surgery from a qualified laser tattoo removal treatment facility.

With that said, we have reviewed alternative Laser Pen Kit Removal options in the past, with limited success.

New Us Air Force Tattoo Policy For 2022

There are not many honorable deeds than serving ones country, and many people decide to share the sentiment through patriotic tattoos.

A huge share of folks already serving the country or thinking about enlisting in the military has tattoos. If you belong to the latter group and are considering joining the Air Force division, you might want to learn about the current Air Force tattoo policy.

So, are you allowed tattoos in the Air Force?

Stick with us for the next couple of minutes as we dive into the Air Force tattoo regulations for 2022.

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Final Word & References

We hope that you found the article useful and that by now youre well-educated on the subject of the US Air Force tattoo regulations.

The Air Force tattoo policy is constantly-evolving . If you have a tattoo that isnt in an allowed body area, youll need to remove it or get a waiver. The same rules apply to officers as they do to enlisted personnel.

There is some hope on the horizon, though, as the Air Force is currently reviewing its policy and may loosen up the restrictions in the future. Considering the fact that the last change to the policy dates back to 2017, its definitely due for an update.

So if youre thinking of getting a tattoo or already have one that doesnt comply with the Air Force regulations, stay tuned and keep your fingers crossed that the rules will change soon. Thanks for reading!

The information you found in the article is based on official sources, mainly the Commanders Call Topics.

Does It Make A Difference

All the military services have acknowledged their having a hard time making mission this year as the eligible population shrinks, and long-range economic and pandemic effects are felt. But how much do tattoo restrictions factor in?

GAO cites 2014 and 2020 studies by the Defense Departments Joint Military Advertising, Market Research and Studies arm , which found that easing restrictions would increase the recruiting pool by about six percent in the 16-24 demographic. The Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard all told GAO they collected data on waiver requests and disqualifications and used that data to inform policy.

The new report doesnt fully make clear, however, what the impact of clearer waivers would be now that rules have been substantially relaxed. In 2017, reported that 33 troops were denied re-enlistment packages over the course of a year due to their ink. Its likely most would be retained under the new rules.

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Space Force Tattoo Policy 2022

The U.S. Space Force, the countrys newest military service branch, allows tattoos on the chest and back , arms, legs, and feet, according to its official policy.

Chest and back tattoos cannot be visible through any uniform or visible while wearing an open collar uniform. One tattoo on the neck or behind the ear is allowed, but it cant exceed 1 inch in any direction. Neck tattoos also cant be located on the front of the neck.

The approved location of a neck tattoo for the U.S. Space Force is shown.

Ring tattoos are limited “to a single band, no more than 3/8 of an inch in width, below the knuckle and above the finger joint on one or both hands.” Only one ring tattoo is allowed per hand, the policy states. Tattoos elsewhere on the hand are not allowed.

There are no other size or placement limitations on tattoos as long as they are in accordance with the official policy.

This story was reported from Cincinnati.

Air Forces Expanded Medical Waiver Policy Admits More

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2017/11/16/air-forces-expanded-medical-waiver-policy-admits-more-600-airmen.html

Air Force Relaxes Tattoo Policy, Allows Sleeves and the mix of enlisted to officer applicants varies by waiver authority or accession sources, he said. Per Pentagon policy, those with any

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Is There A Grandfathering Period

It’s expected that most tattoos fall within acceptable guidelines. Questionable tattoos will be considered on a case-by-case basis between the airmen and their commander. If a tattoo is “unauthorized”racist, sexist or otherwise discriminatorythe tattoo must be removed at member expense.

If a commander rules that a tattoo falls into the other category of “inappropriate,” another option includes using uniform items to cover part or all of the image.

Tattoos Brands And Piercings

Airmen are subject to strict requirements and restrictions pertaining to body modifications. If you plan to get a tattoo or other body modifications, carefully consider placement, size and content before you proceed.

Tattoos, brands or piercings anywhere on the body that are prejudicial to good order and discipline, or of a nature that may bring discredit upon the Air Force, are prohibited both in and out of uniform. This includes modifications that are obscene or advocate sexual, racial, ethnic or religious discrimination. Even if rectified, excessive scarring resulting from tattoo removal may also be disqualifying.

Tattoos are not completely disqualifying, however. There are no size or area limitations for authorized tattoos on the chest , back, arms, and legs. Tattoos, brands, and body markings are prohibited on the head, neck, face, tongue, lips, and scalp. Hand tattoos are limited to one single-band ring tattoo, on one finger, on one hand.

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Fighter Jet And Wing Tattoo

An air force tattoo is incomplete if it doesnt have fighter jets. Artists ink this tattoo on the upper arm, and it displays your associations with the air force quintessentially. They draw it with the American flag and a fighter jet that is in action. Plus, this air force tattoo has an official USASF emblem.

Are Tattoos Allowed In The Air Force

So, can you enlist if you have tattoos? The short answer is yes, tattoos are allowed in the Air Force. However, there are some restrictions on where they can be placed and how big they can be.

The Air Forces current policy on tattoos is that they must be neat and conservative. This means that tattoos cannot be visible on the neck, face, or hands .

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What Tattoos Are Not Allowed In The Navy

Now, you might want an exhaustive list of exactly what types of tattoos the Navy does not accept, but its not that easy.

While there are guidelines there arent any set-in-stone rules that cover every possible scenario.

Because lets face it, the diversity of tattoos are only limited to the imagination, so new cases pop up all the time that the Navy must deal with on the fly.

With this in mind, its the commanding officer who gets the last say.

USAToday goes on to quote Stevens saying:

There are just so many variables when you look at tattoo language and tattoo art that its just not reasonable to try and identify a set list of what is and what isnt acceptable. This is one of those areas where we trust this senior leadership, our triads, to be able to look at something in its context, using the chain of command and having discussions amongst themselves as to whether something is appropriate or not.

Allowed Air Force Tattoos

Although air force has already lifted the 25 percent rule for a good reason, there is a need for you to know what body parts are allowed to get inked. Knowing the policies may save you from potential disqualification if you intend to apply to air force soon.

The good news is that airmen can now virtually have a tattoo of any size anywhere on the legs, feet, and arms. Not only this, tattooing full or half sleeves arms are perfectly and technically allowed on both hands. If you have an existing tattoo on your hands, they were authorized and assessed under the new policy standards.

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Not All Types Of Tattoos Are Allowed

Just because your tattoos are in the allowed areas, it doesnt mean that all designs are allowed. The Space Force has a few rules regarding the types of tattoos you can have.

Tattoos with obscene or sexually explicit imagery are not allowed. This includes nudity, profanity, and anything else that could be considered offensive.

Tattoos that depict illegal drugs or drug use are not allowed.

Tattoos that promote racial, ethnic, or religious hatred are not allowed. This includes supremacist tattoos and those that advocate violence.

Tattoos that could be considered gang-related are not allowed. This includes symbols, colors, or other identifying marks of gangs.

The Space Force also has the right to refuse any tattoo that they deem to be inappropriate. This includes any tattoo that could interfere with the proper functioning of military equipment or clothing, or any tattoo that could be considered a safety hazard.

Tattoos In The Right Area Guarantees Nothing

Its worth noting that even if your tattoos are in the right areas and are compliant with the new tattoo policy, that doesnt mean youre guaranteed to get into the Air Force or any other branch of the military for that matter.

There are rules regarding the placement of tattoos and then there are the moral and ethical standards that the Air Force, and all branches of the military, hold their members to. So even if you have a tattoo thats within the new guidelines, if its considered offensive, it could still preclude you from serving.

The AF tattoo policy states clearly that your art cannot be racist, sexist, or otherwise discriminatory in nature. Additionally, any tattoo that could be considered offensive or gang-related is also not allowed.

Ultimately, its up to your commander to decide whether or not a particular tattoo is acceptable. If youre unsure about whether or not a tattoo is allowed, the best thing to do is to ask your supervisor before getting it.

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Final Words On Military Tattoos

If youve been following along, you should be a military tattoo policy pro by now. Weve covered the new and updated tattoo policies for each of the armed services the Navy, Army, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

Youre also well aware that the overarching theme is this: the military is becoming less strict and more accommodating of tattoos at least in size and number of tattoos.

As far as the content of tattoos, each of the branches still have their non-negotiables that you must be aware of and abide by.

We hope this extensive, in-depth guide helps you on your way to serving our country.

As they say, knowledge is power and in this case, its half the battle! So go forth in confidence, knowing exactly what to expect from your desired service branch.

In the meantime, have a look at our other related posts, and keep an eye out for more in-depth guides and articles all about the military and how to join.

Refund And Cancellation Policy

Generally there is no right to refund or exchange except as required by Australian Consumer Law or in accordance with Australias Ticketing Code of Practice.

The Ipswich Amberley Air Tattoo is an all-weather event, subject to safe conditions for flying, ground displays, parking and spectators. The organiser reserves the right to change, add, reschedule, withdraw or substitute assets in the Air Tattoo line-up and/or vary advertised programs and times without prior notification due to weather or other factors.

If the Air Tattoo is cancelled before commencement of the event the buyers will be entitled to a full refund of the ticket price. Please visit the General information page for further information.

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What Tattoos Are Not Allowed In The Army

As far as placement or location goes, we recommend the t-shirt test.

Throw on a t-shirt and stand in front of the mirror. Now, you cannot have any tattoos showing above the t-shirt collar line or anywhere on the neck, ear, face, scalp, etc.

This restriction also includes any inner-mouth or eyelid tattoos .

You cannot have any tattoos on your hands either .

The hand is defined as any location below the wrist bone. With this in mind, its best not to have any ink on your wrists at all.

As far as content of the tattoos, the Army prohibits anything that is:

These types of tattoos cannot be located anywhere on your body. And believe us, theyll check.

Of course, the terms above can be interpreted in different ways, so its ultimately up to your Recruiting Commander to make the call.

Also, if you have tattoos and eventually want to become an Officer or Warrant Officer, dont worry, theres still hope of moving up in rank.

You see, Commanders make recommendations for soldiers based on many considerations so you likely wont be rejected on account of your tattoos alone.

Finally, if you have a tattoo that you think will disqualify you from the Army, its worth a shot to check with the recruiters anyway.

You might get a waiver for, say, a tiny tattoo on your hand or something small behind your ear.

So dont count yourself out!

Popeye The Sailor Man

While Popeye is a Sailor Man, and therefore a card-carrying member of the good ol U.S. Navy, hes a go-to for Coast Guardsmen who are looking for a great tattoo.

Dont be too surprised if you come across loads of Popeye-themed tattoos on Coasties young and old.

Guest

Bar to service

At OASC everything about you is evidence of likely success.If you have no tatts, stay that way until you are in.If you really wants tatts asap then at least have them say something positive about you.Perhaps have Air Vice Marshal stripes tattood on your shoulders and an RAF roundel on each buttock.DT_Xtremez_19:

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Air Force Loosens Tattoo Rules Recruiting Restrictions

Beginning Feb. 1, the Air Force will no longer enforce its 25 percent tattoo rule, the service announced Tuesday.

Airmen were previously not allowed to have tattoos on the chest, back, arms and legs that were larger than 25 percent of the exposed body part. Now, they could have full tattoo sleeves on their arms or large back pieces if they so choose.

Tattoos, body markings or brands on the head, neck, face, tongue, lips and/or scalp are still prohibited, according to an Air Force news release. Tattoos on the hands will be limited to one single-band ring tattoo, on one finger. Airmen who already have hand tattoos that were already authorized will be grandfathered in, according to the release.

The changes result from a tattoo policy review the Air Force began conducting earlier this year.

A review of Air Force field recruiters showed that almost half of contacts, applicants and recruits had tattoos, the release said. One of every five had tattoos that required a review or could be considered disqualifying. By lifting the 25 percent rule, the Air Force opens the population eligible for joining the service.

Tattoos that discriminate or are obscene remain prohibited.

A new #Tattoo policy is here! We are also taking other steps to continue to allow the best to become #Airmen. U.S. Air Force

Navy Tattoo Policy 2022

Like other branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, the Navy updated its tattoo policy in 2016 in an effort to ensure that the branch is able to recruit and keep talented sailors.

“The tattoo policy change was made to reflect tattoo realities in the nation our military serves. The Navy does not want to miss opportunities to bring in talented men and women willing to serve,” it said in a 2016 publication of All Hands, the U.S. Navy magazine.

Neck and sleeve tattoos are allowed, officials said. But tattoos that are “prejudicial to good order, discipline, and morale, or be of a nature that brings discredit upon the naval service” are banned, including those that are racist, sexist, extremist, or indecent. Commanding officers and the chain of command are responsible for making these determinations.

Specifically, one tattoo is allowed on the neck, but it cannot exceed one inch in any direction. Any size or amount of tattoos on the arms and legs are allowed, officials said.

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