Can NYPD have visible tattoos?

Author: Nathan Torphy MD  |  Last update: Thursday, September 11, 2025

New York City Police Department (NYPD) Content – Tattoos featuring explicit, discriminatory, or gang-related content are prohibited. In addition, ink that could be interpreted as encouraging or relating to criminal activity is banned. Visibility – NYPD officers are encouraged to conceal all tattoos while in uniform.

Does NYPD allow tattoos?

Also, same as New York State Police, NYPD members are prohibited from having tattoos on their face, neck, or hands. As far as police agencies in the Southern Tier, we found no formal tattoo policy except that tattoos deemed offensive, are forbidden.

Can police officers have visible tattoos?

Yes, police officers can have tattoos, but the policies regarding them vary by department and location. Some police departments allow visible tattoos, while others require them to be covered while in uniform. The rules often reflect the department's standards for professionalism and public perception.

Can you have tattoos in federal law enforcement?

Yes, federal agents are generally allowed to have tattoos, but there are specific guidelines and restrictions that vary by agency. For example: Visibility: Many agencies require that tattoos be covered while in uniform. This means that visible tattoos on the face, neck, and hands may not be permitted.

Does NYPD have to shave?

The new policy bans beards, but allows exceptions for medical and religious reasons. NEW YORK — Scores of NYPD officers have turned to the Bible to avoid shaving off their beards, police sources said.

Should Cops Be Allowed to Show Tattoos on Duty?

Can you be a cop with a beard?

Some departments have strict policies that mandate a clean-shaven face for all officers. This approach emphasizes conformity and adheres to traditional ideals of professionalism. On the other hand, several departments have started to relax their regulations, allowing short and well-groomed beards within certain limits.

When did NYPD allow beards?

Except for those with religious or medical accommodations, for most of its history beards were a no-no in the NYPD. The tide shifted in 2016, first to accommodate the growing number of Sihks who became police officers — or school or traffic enforcement agents, who are subjected to the same facial hair mandates as cops.

Can you be a cop if you have a hand tattoo?

Face, neck, and hand tattoos are not allowed. The only exception is a thin band tattoo on the ring finger that substitutes a wedding ring.

Can you be in the CIA with tattoos?

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 you be in the FBI with anxiety?

Psychological history: Certain psychological conditions, such as severe anxiety or depression, can disqualify an individual from consideration. The FBI looks for candidates who have demonstrated good mental health and the ability to handle high-stress situations.

What percentage of police officers have tattoos?

Overall 31% of officers have a tattoo(s) that was not visible when in their uniform, 17% have a visible tattoo(s) when in uniform and 52% do not have a tattoo. Among all officers with tattoos, 35% have a visible tattoo (17% of 48%).

Are visible tattoos professional?

Tattoos are generally accepted in the workplace as long as they're not offensive, unprofessional or distracting. However, visible tattoos may not be appropriate for every profession. Even if your company allows body art, you may find that customers or coworkers discriminate against tattooed employees.

Can firefighters have tattoos?

Key factors for grooming policies

Some departments still have policies that any visible tattoo must be covered when on duty. This results in firefighters needing to wear long-sleeve shirts even in the heat of summer or covering their ink with bandages or forearm sleeves.

Were tattoos illegal in NYC?

Tattooing was banned in the five boroughs in 1961, after a Hepatitis B outbreak. It wasn't legal again until 1997.

Can police officers date each other?

Cops can, and frequently do, date. Most departments will have rules and guidelines about it, so you can't date a superior officer or something. They work together 40+ hours a week, risk their lives together, so it is very common that they develop close relationships.

Does the FBI accept tattoos?

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 I join the military with tattoos?

You can have tattoos almost anywhere on your body, with a few exceptions. There are some limits to the size and number of tattoos on highly visible areas like the hands, neck, and behind the ears. Tattoos in the mouth, ears, or on the eyelids are not allowed. It's possible to get a waiver in some instances.

Can you join CIA with criminal record?

CIA Job Requirements. The first thing to know is that working for the CIA requires a person to be a United States citizen and have a relatively clean criminal background.

Can NYPD have neck tattoos?

According to the NYPD Patrol Guide, tattoos that are visible while wearing the uniform are prohibited if they are “offensive, obscene, or gang-related. 1” Additionally, tattoos cannot be located on the head, face, or neck, and they must be covered while on duty.

Can NY state troopers have tattoos?

Overview. Tattoos on any portion of the head, neck or facial area are prohibited. In addition, tattoos on the hands, fingers or wrists are prohibited, with the exception of a single band tattoo of no more than 3/8" width on one finger.

What jobs are against hand tattoos?

Here's a short list of some of the most common employers that either don't allow tattoos or ask you to cover them up at work:
  • Healthcare Professionals. ...
  • Police Officers and Law Enforcement. ...
  • Law Firms. ...
  • Administrative Assistants and Receptionists. ...
  • Financial Institutions and Banks. ...
  • Teachers. ...
  • Hotels / Resorts. ...
  • Government.

What is the age maximum for NYPD?

Must be a citizen of the United States and be at least 20 years old by date of application. Must apply prior to 35th birthday. The maximum age may be extended one year for each year of full-time active military duty - up to a maximum of 7 years.

Can NYPD drink on duty?

It is considered a violation of department policy and can lead to disciplinary action, including termination of employment. Drinking while on duty can impair an officer's judgment and ability to perform their duties, putting themselves and the public at risk.

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