Tattoo Policy

Tattoos on any portion of the head, neck or facial area are prohibited.  In addition, tattoos on the hands, fingers or wrists are prohibited, with the exception of a single band tattoo of no more than 3/8" width on one finger.  Candidates with visible tattoos may still report to candidate processing weekend however, the tattoo removal must be completed prior to offer of appointment to the Academy.  Verification of the removal will be made at the Medical Examination.

Candidates must comply with New York State Police policy which requires all members to present a neat, clean, and businesslike appearance at all times.

• Tattoos, brands, body piercings, and other body art shall not be visible while a member is in uniform or other business attire, with the exception of a single band tattoo, no more than 3/8 inch in width, on one finger.
• Tattoos on the chest, back, or arms must be covered by wearing a properly fitted uniform shirt or business attire, with no portion of the tattoo showing.
• If any portion of the tattoo, brand, and/or body art is visible when wearing the short-sleeve summer uniform, the Member must wear the Division – issued arm sleeves.
• Tattoos on any portion of the head, neck, or facial area are prohibited and cannot be concealed using cosmetics or any other product.
• Tattoos, brands, and/or body art that are unprofessional or offensive are prohibited. Examples shall include, but are not limited to:
  • Depictions of violence or criminal activity.
  • Sexually explicit/vulgar art, words, or profane language.
  • Symbols likely to incite a strong negative reaction in any group, i.e., swastikas, etc.
  • Initials, symbolism, or acronyms that represent criminal or historically oppressive organizations or activities, i.e., AB, KKK, SS, street gang names, numbers, and/or symbols

Ultra-Violet (UV) Tattoos: Any tattoo visible or apparent only with the use of ultra-violet light must still adhere to the requirements set out above.

Brands: Brands and other body art are subject to the same requirements, limitations, and prohibitions applicable to tattoos.

Body piercing(s) and/or body art: Body piercing(s) and/or body art shall not be visible while a member is in uniform or other business attire.

Tattoos on the head, neck or facial area are prohibited.

Tattoos on the chest or back must be covered by wearing a properly fitted short-sleeve uniform shirt with no portion of the tattoo showing. 

An upper arm tattoo must be covered by wearing a properly fitting short-sleeve uniform short with no portion of the tattoo showing.

If the member has a tattoo on the elbow or lower arm that would be visible in a short-sleeve shirt, the Division - issued arm sleeves must be worn to cover the tattoo.  

Tattoos on the hands, fingers, or wrist are prohibited, with the exception of a single band tattoo, no more than 3/8 inch in width, on one finger. 

All candidates will be screened at Candidate Processing to determine if they are in compliance with the NYSP Tattoo Policy. If a candidate is found to be in violation, they have the option of having the entire tattoo or just the visible portion removed at their own expense prior to offer of appointment to the Academy.

Verification of the removal will be made at the Medical Examination.

Any questions regarding the tattoo policy should be directed to your local recruiter.