Why can't I get a job with a hand tattoo?

Asked by: Kailey Herman  |  Last update: November 9, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (8 votes)

For instance, some companies may allow visible tattoos as long as there is no profane language or graphic imagery. Some organizations may allow tattoos on certain parts of the body, like arms and legs, but not on other parts, like the neck or hands. Other companies might strictly forbid visible tattoos altogether.

Is it hard to get a job with a hand tattoo?

In general: Yes, it definitely affects your chances of getting a job. That's really closely related to why people want them in the first place. You don't get your hands tattooed in order to be low-key, fly under the radar and come across as a meek person. They're, as the cliché goes, called job stoppers for a reason.

Do hand tattoos disqualify you from jobs?

As long as you can cover your tattoos easily with clothing, they will have no impact on future employment. My wife is in a position where she cannot have visible tattoos or piercings (other than ears) in her place of work, and she has 15+ tattoos.

Can I work after a hand tattoo?

I'd say you're probably good to go back to work after 2 to 3 weeks. My knuckle tattoos have been a bit different. They swelled up for a little while after tattooing, but that was gone within hours. They aren't quite healed yet, but I've only had them for a week and a half.

Why are hand tattoos not recommended?

Most tattoo artists do not like to tattoo hands and fingers for a few reasons. Firstly, the skin in these areas is very thin, which makes it difficult to work with and results in a poor-quality tattoo.

The TRUTH About Tattoos and Employment | Do Tattoos Stop You from Getting a Job?

25 related questions found

What are the cons of hand tattoos?

Our hands are constantly exposed to the elements and undergo frequent washing, which can cause the tattoo to wear down faster. This means you might require more touch-ups to maintain the vibrancy of your design. Proper aftercare, such as moisturizing and sunblock, is crucial to prolong the life of your hand tattoo.

Were hand tattoos illegal in the US?

In the United States of America there is no federal law regulating the practice of tattooing.

Are hand tattoos still considered unprofessional?

Depending on the company you are seeking to have a career at and how conservative their policies are, hand and finger tattoos are not immediately written off as a reason for someone not to hire you. However, that is not to say that they are accepted everywhere.

Do tattoos make it harder to get a job?

A Tattoo Won't Hurt Your Job Prospects. Michael T. French of the University of Miami and colleagues surveyed more than 2,000 people in the United States and found that those with tattoos were no less likely to be employed than their uninked counterparts, and that average earnings were the same for both groups.

How long do hand tattoos last?

Additionally, since we use our fingers all the time, these tattoos might fade quickly and require touch-ups every several years.

Can jobs reject you because of tattoos?

Currently, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects employees and job applicants from employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin, but does not yet prohibit discrimination based on tattoos or other forms of body art.

How to cover hand tattoos for work?

A tattoo can be hidden with an Ace bandage, or if you'd like a bit more color, pre-wrap can be used. Think of it as a removable sleeve for the workplace.

Does the CIA care about tattoos?

However, the Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA) website states, “Tattoos will not disqualify you from gaining employment at the CIA, and all professionally-qualified persons are encouraged to apply.”

Which tattoos are job stoppers?

People with face, neck and hand tattoos will run into difficulty with some other prospective employers. In the tattoo trade, ink designs in these areas are referred to as “jobstoppers”.

What jobs accept hand tattoos?

Jobs that allow hand tattoos
  • Hair Stylist. Average Salary: $38,221. ...
  • Web Developer. Average Salary: $78,975. ...
  • Tattoo Artist. Average Salary: $51,867.
  • Photographer. Average Salary: $33,968. ...
  • Retail Sales Associate.
  • Event Planner. Average Salary: $51,542. ...
  • Bartender. Average Salary: $26,362. ...
  • Graphic Designer. Average Salary: $49,450.

Where not to get a tattoo for a job?

Most hospitals and clinics have strict guidelines on professional appearance, which can often block job candidates with tattoos from being hired. Tattoos are absolutely prohibited for many health personnel who regularly interact with patients.

What does the Bible say about tattoos?

But in the ancient Middle East, the writers of the Hebrew Bible forbade tattooing. Per Leviticus 19:28, “You shall not make gashes in your flesh for the dead, or incise any marks on yourselves.” Historically, scholars have often understood this as a warning against pagan practices of mourning.

Are tattoos career limiting?

When it comes to searching for a job, many people think tattoos are now widely accepted. There's no way a company wouldn't hire you just because you have a tattoo! While tattoos are certainly more commonplace than ever before, there are still a few careers with tight restrictions when it comes to tattoos.

Should I hide my tattoos for a job interview?

If you can conceal the ink, do so. “Job interviews are already uncomfortable, so don't exacerbate things by having to worry about your tattoos being visible,” says Foltz. Consider wearing a full suit. Accessories like rings and watches can hide certain tattoos, but make sure they don't shake when you move, Foltz warns.

Can a job not hire you because of a hand tattoo?

Can You Be Fired For Having A Tattoo In California? Unfortunately, tattoos fall under employment dress codes. As employers have the right to impose dress codes, they can set grooming and appearance policies at work. This means they can choose not to hire individuals with visible tattoos or ask them to cover up.

Is it a bad idea to get a hand tattoo?

NOTE: Hand, finger & foot tattoos are NOT recommended and NOT guaranteed. They fade quickly (within days/weeks/months) due to the nature of your skin. Hands/feet always interact with other objects. Rubbing against anything will cause it to fade.

What jobs don't allow wrist tattoos?

Here's a short list of some of the most common employers that either don't allow tattoos or ask you to cover them up at work:
  • Healthcare Professionals. ...
  • Police Officers and Law Enforcement. ...
  • Law Firms. ...
  • Administrative Assistants and Receptionists. ...
  • Financial Institutions and Banks. ...
  • Teachers. ...
  • Hotels / Resorts. ...
  • Government.

Why are hand tattoos taboo?

But despite (or perhaps because of) the efforts of the extremist Christians of late antiquity, most of the modern world has yet to embrace facial tattoos. The same goes for neck and hand tattoos: In the US and many other countries, ink on the hands, face, or neck is considered a sign of gang affiliation or prison time.

Are hand tattoos accepted?

Some organizations may allow tattoos on certain parts of the body, like arms and legs, but not on other parts, like the neck or hands. Other companies might strictly forbid visible tattoos altogether. Ask your supervisor.

Do tattoo artists refuse hand tattoos?

The skin of hands and fingers is very delicate. It can be difficult for any tattoo artist to determine which layer is the epidermis, and this confusion can cause multiple mistakes. That is one of the major reasons why newer and expert tattoo artists won't tattoo on hands or fingers.