Marine Corps Tattoo Order – Tattoos on Legs and Knees

The Marine Corps has updated its tattoo policy for more liberal regulations. Marines are now permitted to have sleeves and Tattoos on their knees or elbows as long as a crew neck T-shirt covers them. However, there are still restrictions to ensure tattoos do not depict racism, discrimination, indecency, extremist/supremacist ideals, lawlessness, violence, or sexually explicit content. Recruits seeking overseas duty will also undergo screening to avoid offending host nation cultures.

Neck

The Marine Corps tattoo policy aims to balance personal expression and maintaining a professional military appearance. Tattoos depicting racism, discrimination, indecency, extremist or supremacist ideologies, lawlessness, violence, or sexually explicit images are strictly forbidden. Visible tattoos below the collarbone and seventh cervical vertebrae are generally prohibited, but exceptions may be granted based on rank, unit, and mission.

The recent revision of the tattoo policy cancels Marine Corps Bulletin 1020 of 2 June 2016. The new policy allows Tattoos to be placed anywhere on the body except for specific areas like the face, neck, and hands (excluding single finger bands). Marines are still not allowed to have sleeves covering their knees or elbows.

Arms

The Marine Corps tattoo rules have become more relaxed over time, but Marines should still carefully consider their tattoo designs. Tattoos that discredit the military, including those related to drugs, gangs, extremism, or anything offensive, indecent, or racist, are strictly prohibited. Visible Tattoos on the arms must be at most three inches in width, and hand tattoos are only acceptable on the top or bottom finger if not visible through a PT uniform.

Legs

Tattooed legs may be allowed among Marines if the uniform completely conceals them. Marines with existing sleeve Tattoos may apply for grandfathered status, but approval is unlikely. Leg tattoos must cover no more than half of the lower calf area, and tattoos on the knee and elbow are permitted as long as they do not extend past the wrist bone. While Marine Corps regulations prohibit tattoos in this placement, leg tattoos may be placed as low as the ankle.

Hands

The Marine Corps recently updated its tattoo policy to attract and retain talented individuals. Rank-specific restrictions have been lifted to encourage sailors to display more personal flair. Marines are now allowed to get any tattoo on their arms, legs, chest, and hands, but none may extend past the end of the thumb. A single tattoo on the first or second knuckle of the hand may also be permissible as long as it does not go beyond the thumb tip. Marines must comply with the tattoo requirements to avoid negative career implications or separation from service. Tattoos that violate national policies, such as those promoting sexism, racism, or extremism, are strictly prohibited under all circumstances.