The following graphic shows where tattoos are and are not accepted in the US Army in 2020.

On the visible part of the arm (i.e. forearms) tattoos must be one inch below the elbow and tattoos cannot extend onto the wrist or hands. For upper arm pieces, tattoos must start two inches above the elbow. 

Tattoos on the legs must be either two inches above or two inches below the knee, leaving the areas of skin on the knee untouched. As long as these placement rules are followed no number limit for tattoos is specified. 

Tattoos on the back and torso are less restricted regarding size and placement as long as they don’t pass the shirt collar and extend onto the neck.  

Unchanged policy elements 

While Army officials are attempting to adapt in the face of a changing society, the military’s emphasis on maintaining a clean and disciplined appearance means certain placements and subjects are still prohibited.

Tattoos on the neck, face and hands are still banned, with the exception being one ring finger tattoo that cannot exceed the space where an actual wedding band may sit.  

The content of tattoos can also be factors concerning discipline or ineligibility for enlistment. Most notable on the prohibited list are tattoos that display content considered extremist or are “affiliated with, depicting, or symbolizing extremist philosophies, organizations, or activities.”

Designs that are deemed racist, sexist or overtly obscene also remain prohibited and offending tattoos can be cause for disqualification or discipline. The Army’s core tenets regarding cohesion and unity leave no space for content or attitudes that undermine solidarity. 

Different branches, similar policies 

For the most part the regulations concerning tattoos are fairly similar from one military branch to another, with some minor differences.