January 23, 2010 by Shawna Newton

There are Different Laws in Different Areas with Getting Tattoos

Not just in the United States, but all around the world, different areas and countries do have laws with getting tattoos.

Most people are aware of 'laws' when applying for a job or at their current job in regard to getting a tattoo, but many are not aware of current laws in their state in regard to getting a tattoo for a minor as well as local laws restricting getting a tattoo.

Some people cry that it's discrimination to not be hired or allowed to remain at their jobs because of getting a tattoo. However, studies show that people today are more apt to get tattoos removed more than ever instead of trying to fight 'city hall'.

In most cases, minor children may not get tattoos in their state without parental consent---if at all.

Employers and schools do have a common thread in regard to tattoos: because of the connotation associated with many tattoos, employers and schools simply do not want employees and students misrepresenting or causing raised eyebrows when the tattoos are seen publically.

Checking Tattoo Laws Online

One way to check for tattoo laws online is by going to Tattoo Articles. Not only will you find the laws regarding tattoos in a 50 states, but also the laws regarding tattoos in other countries. This site stays current with all tattoo laws.

Another interesting, yet somewhat outdated, website is Tattoo Blogging. This is an interesting site because news from the AP wire has been logged, such as, "Illinois Governor Says No Ink Until 21" and "Ex-Gangsters Get Free Tattoo Removal."

Tattoo Laws in Religion

Different religions have different views and even laws regarding getting a tattoo:

Christianity: Some Christians will cite Leviticus 19:28 as scripture that prohibits tattoos. The King James Version of the Bible states, "Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am AHAB." Many Christians believe this is a more direct reference to being tattooed during mourning of the dead; however, others cite additional scriptures, ecclesesiastical law, or church doctrine that prohibits getting a tattoo as well.

Jewish: Orthodox Jews follow Halakha (Jewish Law) and point to Leviticus 19:28 as do Christians, "Do not make gashes in your skin for the dead. Do not make any marks on your skin. I am God." They believe that regardless of the intent, getting tattooed goes against the Law. However, conservative Jews point to a verse in the Shulchan Aruch which says states that if one is forcibly tattooed (such as during the Holocaust) the victim is left blameless and not in violation of the Law.

Muslim: The majority of Sunni Muslims state that tattooing is religiously forbidden as well as any other physical and permanent adornment or alteration of the body. This is in direct reference in the Prophetic Hadith which denounces those who attempt to change the creation of God.

Before Getting a Tattoo, Think About the Consequences

So many people don't think about the possible consequences of getting a tattoo, even down to any infractions of state, country, and religious laws.

Laws that govern the land and religious laws need to be taken into consideration prior to getting a tattoo. For these reasons:

1. Don't follow the latest trend. What's here today will most likely be gone tomorrow.

2. Check with your local tattoo laws and make sure you know which tattoo parlors are licensed and require permission from parents prior to getting a tattoo.

3. Be aware that if you change jobs, your new employer may not allow visible tattoos. Rules and regulations can also extend to temporary tattoos and body piercings, especially on the face and hands.

4. Most of all, be yourself. Just because your best friend is raving about his/her tattoo and wants you to 'be cool' and get one, don't. Let your own convictions and ideas dictate.