The United States Air Force Tattoo Policy has recently changed and now provides more latitude. These changes should give those interested in tattoos an advantage; however, it will require them to select their design for inking carefully.
Dress and Appearance Standards
Dress and appearance standards within the U.S. military now permit tattoos on the chest and back (below an open-collar uniform), arms, legs, and one finger of each hand – including one finger sporting a ring tattoo.
Hands
Now, Air Force leaders are authorizing hands in pockets as part of an overhaul to dress and personal appearance rules, in an attempt to help recruits who have found it hard to enter the service over the last year.
AFROTC and USAFA Cadets
The service is also adjusting its standards for AFROTC and USAFA cadets. This week, Lt. Gen. John Healy, Head of Air Force Reserves, told civic leaders that changes could ease recruitment challenges.
Face
tattoos, brand markings, and body markings remain forbidden on the face, neck, tongue, lips, or scalp. tattoos depicting fighter jets firing bullets are among the most favored and iconic U.S. Air Force tattoos.
Neck
Tattooing has long been an expressive form of self-expression for soldiers serving in the air force. Air Force tattoos can represent emotions ranging from anger and loss to fear and freedom.
Ears
Airmen and Guardians who want tattoos can now get them up to an inch on each hand and the back of their neck. The Department of the Air Force is making hearing protection more flexible for service members in different noise-exposed environments.
Submission Requirement
Tattooed service members must submit an A.F. Form 4428 with their Admissions Liaison Officer to inform them about the locations, sizes, and significance of any tattoos, brands, or body markings acquired during service. This form should be submitted at least every six months to keep records current during their career in the Air Force.
