Can Navy seals have tattoos?

Author: Mr. Kendrick Towne  |  Last update: Saturday, October 11, 2025

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.

Can you have tattoos in Special Forces?

Yes, members of the Special Forces can have tattoos, but there are specific guidelines regarding their visibility and content. Generally, tattoos that are visible while in uniform (such as on the hands, neck, or face) may be restricted.

Does the US Navy allow tattoos?

2. US Navy: The Navy is considered to be quite lenient when it comes to tattoos. They allow neck tattoos, sleeves, and even some small tattoos behind the ears. However, tattoos on the head, face, and scalp are prohibited.

Can you go to the naval Academy with a tattoo?

  • Yes, people with tattoos are allowed to be accepted into the United States Naval Academy (USNA) Officer Candidate School.
  • According to the USNA policy, tattoos cannot be visible on the neck, face, head, hands, or wrists.

Can navy seals have piercings?

Additionally, body piercing is not authorized in civilian attire when in a duty status or while in/aboard any ship, craft, aircraft, or in any military vehicle or within any base or other place under military jurisdiction, or while participating in any organized military recreational activities.

Navy SEAL Tattoo Stories with Eddie Gallagher

Can I join the Navy SEALs with tattoos?

Tattoos located on the ears, behind the ears, on the neck (below the jawline) viewable from the front as well as those on the back of the neck may be waived by Commander, Navy Recruiting Command, on a case-by-case basis. No tattoos are permitted on the head, face or scalp.

Can Navy SEALs have beards?

Both the Navy and the Marine Corps generally don't allow facial hair other than mustaches, but they allow beards for religious reasons or for service members with medical conditions like razor bumps.

Can the military deny you for tattoos?

The Army tattoo policy was updated and relaxed in 2022 but is still one of the most strict in the military. It prohibits any tattoos on the head, face, neck, wrists, hands, or above the t-shirt collar. Essentially, any visible body tattoos are prohibited.

Can Navy fighter pilots have tattoos?

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.

Can a Marine get a tattoo?

Marines may have tattoos on any area of the body, excluding the head, neck, and hands in accordance with this Bulletin. Marines are advised there are future career implications regarding the application of tattoos. A tattoo that is not specifically prohibited may still prevent future duty assignments.

Can I join the military at 40 years old?

Each branch of the military has age limits to enlist in active duty: Air Force: 17 - 42. Army: 17 - 35. Coast Guard: 17 - 41.

What branch of military allows tattoos?

The Army acknowledges the significance of permitting tattoos that reflect soldiers' individual narratives and unit loyalty while also upholding uniformity and discipline. The Navy has one of the most relaxed tattoo policies compared to the other military branches.

What is the age limit for Navy?

Navy Reserve Sailors must be between the ages of 18 and 42, though exceptions can be made for those with prior service. However, joining the Navy Reserve doesn't require any prior military experience—we can teach you all you need to know.

Can you have tattoos in the CIA?

However, the Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA) website states, “Tattoos will not disqualify you from gaining employment at the CIA, and all professionally-qualified persons are encouraged to apply.”

Can SAS soldiers have tattoos?

If your tattoo is offensive, obscene or racist it will stop you joining. Small tattoos that aren't offensive in any way are not normally a problem, depending where they are on your body and how visible they are. The general rule is if your tattoo is visible on a passport photo it will be deemed unacceptable.

What is the most elite military unit?

Special mission unit. A special mission unit (SMU), at one time referred to as a "tier 1" unit, is a designation for the United States military's most highly secretive and elite special operations forces. The term special missions unit is also used in Australia to describe the Special Air Service Regiment.

Can I join the navy with tattoos?

Size: The size restriction for visible tattoos is limited to the area of the neck and behind the ear only. As a result of this change, leg and arm tattoos can be of any size. Tattoo on the neck or behind the ear will not exceed one inch in measurement in any dimension (height/width).

Can pilots have ADHD?

FAA Standard Track

Pilots with ADHD can receive a medical certification. However, they must go through a detailed ADHD evaluation if they do not qualify for the fast track. The standard track is very time-consuming and intensive.

Can Delta pilots have tattoos?

Yes, pilots can have tattoos, but there are restrictions. Most airlines require that tattoos not be visible while wearing the standard pilot uniform, meaning they should not be on areas like the face, neck, or hands. This policy ensures a professional appearance and avoids any potential distractions or offenses.

Can you have tattoos in the FBI?

Tattoos, brands, and body markings are prohibited on the head, face, neck, tongue, lips, and scalp. Hand tattoos are limited to one ring tattoo on one finger on each hand.

Can you hide a tattoo from the military?

If you have something that just peaks over, a good option is to remove the ink from the areas close to the collar or wrist until fully hidden beneath your uniform. In addition, the Army also restricts any tattoos inside the mouth, in the ears or on the eyelids.

Can you have tattoos in Japan?

While tattoos are not illegal, they can prevent people from getting the full Japanese experience. When using public transportation in Japan, such as trains, tourists with visible tattoos will want to keep in mind that their ink may be offensive to some of the locals.

How much do navy SEALs make?

As of Mar 14, 2025, the average annual pay for a Navy Seal in the United States is $98,176 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $47.20 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,888/week or $8,181/month.

Do navy SEALs have a dress code?

However, depending on the mission, Navy SEALs may wear standard Navy fatigues and wetsuits or not wear any uniforms at all. Navy SEALs can also be recognized by the SEAL Trident insignia worn on the chest of their uniform which depicts an eagle grasping onto an anchor, a trident, and a pistol with its talons.

Why do SAS have beards?

Practical Reasons for Special Forces Beards

Beards can also serve as a form of natural camouflage, helping soldiers blend in with their surroundings, especially in rural or wooded areas.

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