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New Tattoo Policy

5 things you need to know

by Defense Media Activity
31 March 2016 In an effort to improve support for Sailors, Navy Personnel Command updated the current tattoo policy.
 1. 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.

2. Neck and sleeve tattoos are allowed. Tattoos are becoming increasingly popular to those currently serving and among those the Navy draws its recruits from. The Navy strives to reflect the nation it serves, to attract, recruit and retain the nation's best talent.

3. The Navy's tattoo content restrictions remain the same: no tattoo located anywhere on the body can be prejudicial to good order, discipline, and morale, or be of a nature that brings discredit upon the naval service.

4. This policy change will allow Sailors with sleeve tattoos to be assigned to Recruit Training Command and Recruiting Command positions, previously not allowed.

5. As has been the case, commanding officers and the chain of command will make determinations as to what is acceptable, or what is prejudicial to good order, discipline, and morale or of a nature that brings discredit upon the naval service.
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VIRIN: 160331-N-PL185-001


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VIRIN: 160331-N-PL185-002


Check out the full policy here.