How Old Do You Have To Be To Get A Tattoo?

What Is the Legal Age to Get a Tattoo?

Getting a tattoo is a big choice, and if you’re in the U.S., it’s crucial to understand your state’s tattoo regulations before committing. Age restrictions for tattoos vary widely based on location, with some states making exceptions for minors if they have parental approval. This article offers an in-depth look at the legal tattoo age in different states, why these laws exist, and how parental consent factors into the process.

Legal Age for Tattoos in the United States: Overview

In most states, you must be 18 to get a tattoo without parental consent. This aligns with the age of legal adulthood, when individuals are considered responsible enough to make personal decisions about their bodies. Some states, however, permit minors to get tattoos with written consent from a parent or legal guardian. It’s important to review the specific laws in your state, as they can differ.

The table below lists each state in the US and its legal age for tattoos, including whether parental consent can allow minors to get a tattoo.

State	Legal Age for Tattoos	Parental Consent Allowed?
Alabama	18	Yes, for minors over 16
Alaska	18	No
Arizona	18	Yes
Arkansas	18	Yes
California	18	No
Colorado	18	Yes, for minors over 16
Connecticut	18	No
Delaware	18	Yes
Florida	18	Yes, for minors over 16
Georgia	18	Yes
Hawaii	18	Yes
Idaho	18	Yes
Illinois	18	Yes
Indiana	18	Yes
Iowa	18	Yes
Kansas	18	Yes
Kentucky	18	Yes
Louisiana	18	Yes
Maine	18	Yes
Maryland	18	Yes
Massachusetts	18	No
Michigan	18	Yes
Minnesota	18	No
Mississippi	18	No
Missouri	18	Yes
Montana	18	Yes
Nebraska	18	Yes
Nevada	18	Yes
New Hampshire	18	No
New Jersey	18	Yes
New Mexico	18	Yes
New York	18	Yes
North Carolina	18	Yes
North Dakota	18	Yes
Ohio	18	Yes
Oklahoma	18	Yes
Oregon	18	No
Pennsylvania	18	Yes
Rhode Island	18	Yes
South Carolina	18	Yes
South Dakota	18	Yes
Tennessee	18	Yes
Texas	18	Yes
Utah	18	Yes
Vermont	18	No
Virginia	18	Yes
Washington	18	No
West Virginia	18	Yes
Wisconsin	18	No
Wyoming	18	Yes

Why Are There Age Restrictions on Tattoos?

The main reason for establishing a legal age for tattoos is to prevent minors from making irreversible decisions too early. Tattoos are permanent, and although removal is possible, it comes at a high cost and can result in scarring. Age restrictions exist to ensure individuals are mature enough to fully understand the long-term consequences of their decisions.

Tattoos puncture the skin, leading to risks like infections or allergic reactions if you don’t follow proper aftercare. By requiring individuals to be at least 18, states aim to reduce the likelihood of minors facing these health complications. Additionally, tattooing minors can create legal liabilities for tattoo artists, particularly if the minor later regrets the decision or if there are health-related issues.

Parental Consent for Tattoos: What Does It Involve?

Several states allow minors to get tattoos with parental consent. This consent usually involves more than just a verbal approval; it often requires a notarized form signed by the parent or guardian. In some states, the parent or guardian must also be present during the tattooing process. This additional step ensures the parent is completely aware of the procedure and any potential risks involved.

However, it’s important to note that even if state law allows parental consent, some tattoo studios may refuse to tattoo minors. Many reputable tattoo artists prefer to only work with clients who are at least 18 to avoid potential legal and ethical complications.

Tattoo Laws: State-by-State Breakdown

Tattoo laws vary significantly across the United States. While the general age limit is 18, some states have unique provisions that make it easier or harder for minors to get tattoos.

For example, Alabama allows minors over 16 to get tattoos with parental consent, but in California, no one under 18 can legally get a tattoo, even with parental approval. Florida permits minors aged 16-17 to get tattoos with parental consent, but states like Wisconsin completely prohibit tattooing under 18.

Some states, such as New York and North Carolina, permit tattoos for minors with parental consent, but only under certain conditions, such as for medical or cosmetic reasons (e.g., covering scars). Meanwhile, Oregon and Washington are examples of states with strict age limits where even parental consent won’t allow minors to get tattoos.

Exceptions to the Rule

While most states follow the standard age of 18 for tattoos, there are exceptions. In some cases, tattoos may be allowed for minors under special circumstances, such as medical conditions or cultural practices. For instance, some individuals seek tattoos for reconstructive or cosmetic purposes, like covering surgical scars or burns. Minors may get tattoos in these cases with approval from both a physician and a parent or guardian.

Additionally, certain cultures view tattoos as rites of passage, and in some Native American or Pacific Islander traditions, tattoos may be done at a younger age as part of a religious or cultural ceremony. While state laws still generally apply in these situations, some tribal communities have different practices related to tattooing.

Choosing a Reputable Tattoo Artist

No matter your age, selecting a reputable tattoo artist who maintains strict hygiene standards is essential. The studio must maintain a license, stay clean, and follow safety protocols by using sterilized needles and equipment.

A trustworthy artist will also verify your ID to ensure you meet the legal age requirement or have proper consent if you’re underage.

Parents and minors should take extra precautions when selecting a tattoo artist. Even if parental consent allows minors to get tattoos, some artists may refuse to tattoo minors for ethical reasons. Make sure to discuss the design, location, and significance of the tattoo with your artist, as well as the potential risks involved.

Tattoo Aftercare for Minors

Proper aftercare is crucial to the tattoo process, particularly for younger people with more sensitive skin. Following the artist’s aftercare instructions is key to ensuring the tattoo heals well and avoids infection. Basic care includes keeping the tattoo clean, applying ointment, and avoiding direct sunlight.

If a child gets a tattoo, parents should closely monitor the healing process to ensure the skin stays healthy and infection-free. At the first sign of issues like redness, swelling, or discharge, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional right away.

Is Tattoo Removal an Option for Regret?

Many people now choose tattoo removal, especially those who got tattoos young and later regretted their decision. Laser removal is the most effective technique, but it often takes multiple sessions, can cause pain, and may not completely erase the tattoo. The high cost of removal underscores why age restrictions matter: Tattoos are permanent, and younger people may not fully grasp the long-term consequences of their decisions.

If you’re a minor thinking about getting a tattoo or a parent considering allowing your child to get one, it’s essential to have a serious discussion about the long-term implications and potential regrets.

Final Thoughts:

To wrap up, the legal age for getting a tattoo in the US is typically 18, but many states make exceptions for minors with parental consent. Knowing the specific regulations in your state and selecting a trusted, skilled artist are key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable tattoo experience.

If you’re under 18, it’s essential to carefully reflect on your decision, considering the lasting impact and permanent nature of tattoos. Being fully prepared ensures you make a well-informed decision that you won’t regret in the future.