The minimum age to get a tattoo is generally 18 years old in most places, including all 50 U.S. states and the UK. In the United States, all states require a person to be at least 18 to get a tattoo without parental consent, although some states allow minors to get tattoos with parental consent and under certain conditions (such as the parent being present) - these rules vary widely by state
. For example:
- In many states like Alaska, California, and New York, the minimum age is strictly 18 with no exceptions
- Some states like Florida and Texas allow minors aged 16 or older to get tattoos with parental consent
- Nevada does not have a statewide law but local health districts regulate tattoos, with some allowing minors as young as 14 with parental consent and presence
In the UK, it is illegal to tattoo anyone under 18, and there are no exceptions for parental consent. The only exception is for medical tattoos performed by qualified medical practitioners
. Internationally, the age varies: some European countries allow tattoos at 16 with parental consent, while others require 18
Summary:
- United States: Minimum 18 years old generally; some states allow minors with parental consent.
- United Kingdom: Minimum 18 years old, no parental consent exceptions.
- Europe and other countries: Varies, often 16 or 18 with parental consent.
Always check local laws before getting a tattoo, as regulations differ significantly by region.
