In California, you must be 18 years old to get a tattoo. No exceptions. Even if your parents agree, you legally can’t get tattooed until you’re a legal adult. Tattooing a minor is a crime in California under Penal Code 653 PC.
California Tattoo Age Law Explained
- Minimum age: 18 years
- With parental consent: Still not allowed
- Applies to: All tattoo shops and tattoo artists in California
Whether you’re 17 with a parent’s written permission or show up with an adult, California law strictly forbids tattooing anyone under 18.
What Is Penal Code 653 PC?
This is the law that makes it a misdemeanor to tattoo someone under 18. Here’s what it says:
“Every person who tattoos or offers to tattoo a person under the age of 18 years is guilty of a misdemeanor.”
Violating this law can lead to:
- Up to 6 months in county jail
- A fine up to $1,000
- Or both
Even helping someone underage get tattooed (driving them to the shop, providing fake ID) can also be punished.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes—but only for medical or dental reasons.
A tattoo can be done on a minor only if:
- It’s part of a medical or reconstructive procedure
- A licensed doctor or dentist approves and supervises it
- Written consent from the physician is provided
Otherwise, there are no legal workarounds.
Legal Defenses If Accused of Tattooing a Minor
If charged under Penal Code 653 PC, a defense attorney might use:
- Lack of knowledge: You believed the person was 18 based on a convincing ID
- No intent: You were misled or pressured into doing it
- False accusation: Someone wrongly blamed you
- Illegal search or evidence: Your rights were violated during investigation
Can a 17-year-old get a tattoo in California with parental consent?
No. California doesn’t allow tattoos for anyone under 18, even with a parent’s permission.
Can a 16-year-old get a tattoo in another state?
Some states allow tattoos at 16 with parental consent. However, if you’re a California resident, traveling to another state for a tattoo can still lead to legal issues when you return.
What about tattoo removal for minors?
Tattoo removal is allowed under 18, but you’ll need:
- Parental consent
- Written recommendation from a licensed physician
- A clinic that follows California’s health and safety rules
Where can I legally get a tattoo before 18?
Only a few states allow it under strict conditions with parental consent. But California is not one of them. Always check the local laws in that state.
What if I already got a tattoo before turning 18?
If you were tattooed illegally as a minor:
The tattoo artist may face charges
You will not be charged, but you might deal with complications like:
- Infection or poor healing
- Regret or poor design choices
- Difficulty finding reputable shops willing to fix it
What are the risks of illegal tattoos?
- Health risks: Infections, allergic reactions, scarring
- Legal trouble: Fines or jail time for the artist
- Permanent consequences: Bad designs, stigma, or regret
FAQ
Q: Where can I get a tattoo at 16?
Some states like Florida, Idaho, and Kansas allow tattoos at 16 with parental consent, but each state has different rules. Always check local laws before visiting a shop.
Q: Can a 17-year-old get a tattoo in California?
No. California law bans tattoos for anyone under 18—even with a parent’s permission.
Q: Where can I get a tattoo at 15?
A few states may allow it at 15 with strict parental consent and medical approval, but most do not. Always check local laws.
Q: Can a 16-year-old get a tattoo in California with parental consent?
No. California does not allow tattoos under 18, even with a parent’s consent.
Q: What age can you get a tattoo with parental consent?
In some U.S. states, you can get a tattoo at 16 or 17 with written parental consent. But this varies by state, and California is not one of them.
Final Word
In California, you must be 18 or older to get a tattoo—no exceptions for parental consent. The law is clear and strictly enforced. If you’re under 18 and want a tattoo, your safest option is to wait until you turn 18.
Tattooing should be done legally and professionally to avoid health issues and criminal charges.
