Can you have tattoos in the U.S. Marines?

Marines can get only one lower arm tattoo, which has to be at least one inch below the center of the elbow and two inches above the wrist bone. read more

Marines can have an unlimited number of tattoos that are covered by the properly fitting standard physical training uniform: green t-shirt and green shorts. Marines are prohibited from getting tattoos on the head, neck, inside the mouth, wrists, knees, elbows and hands with the exception of a single band tattoo of no more than three-eighths of an inch in width on one finger. read more

In addition, Marines may not have tattoos or brands (any marking that can't be easily removed) on the head or neck, inside the mouth, or on the hands, fingers or wrists. One exception that is allowed: a single band tattoo of no more than three-eighths of an inch in width on one finger. read more

Additionally, any enlisted Marine who had grandfathered sleeve tattoos can no longer apply for any Marine Corps commissioning or warrant officer programs. “A Marine with tattoos doesn’t mean you’re a bad Marine,” said Sgt. Maj. William Wiseman, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron sergeant major. read more