Will I be Physically disqualified from MEPS if I have a fresh tattoo?

Question

I'm turning 18 in a few days and i've always wanted a tattoo. I know what design and where. But i've heard people say that the military wont take you if you have a open wound which is what a tattoo basicly is at first and it has to fully heal which can take a few months. but i have also heard that the doctors at MEPS will evaluate any recent tattoos and decide if your eligible for sevice. also i want to get a tatto on my fore arm and I read somewhere that that is acceptable now in the army or do you still need a waiver, and how hard is it to get a waiver for a tattoo on exposed skin?

Answer 1

Wait until after basic training. If you are really wanting to join the Army, why take a chance and prolong your entry over something that simple. I am a recruiter now, and at the MEPS I process my applicants, if they have any type of wound, scratch, or skinned knee, they will not let them process. And if you want to listen to the other guy who told you to tell them to go s***w, just remember they have every right to disqualify you for the simplest things. I am covered with ink myself, but you are 18, you have plenty of time to get work done.

Answer 2

if you are currently in DEP you have agreed to NOT CHANGE A DARN THING.. that means you CANNOT get a tattoo. period.  until you have completed training.  

In other words, YES you can be DQ'd//temporarily or permanently based on you changing your status( all tat's must be logged and there are many restrictions as to what where and how large they can be)

NO TATTOOS can show while in uniform.. forearms are Most DEFINITELY a no go.  as are hands, neck and face.  

Answer 3

i think its unprofessional and disrespectful to wear a military uniform and have visible tattoos showing. I AM NOT AGAINST TATTOOS. my husband in the army has 2...but one is one the back and the other on his shoulder..not visible

Answer 4

I am unsure on the rules for fresh tattoos but I do know that once you are in the DEP stage, you are not to do anything without permission when it comes to permanent changes to physical appearance..so at the very least talk to your recruiter.

Additionally, the military has taken a much tougher stance on tattoos being visable while in uniform.  Currently, if it could be visable while in uniform..and this includes with BDU sleeves rolled up or tops off, so your forearm would clearly show..then it is a no go.  Enforcement can vary by command, but just because you may get one command who doesn't have an issue is no garuntee you won't hit another hard nose later on.  Again, check with the recruiter before you do anything.  At the very least, I would have another location on your body picked out as a back up!