Can a minor get a tattoo or piercing in Pennsylvania?

Full question:

Yesterday I went to a tattoo studio in Pennsylvania to perform piercing my nose and eyebrows. I am a 17 year old high school student. But the tattooist did not let me do, says that minors are not allowed any body art. Is it true, am I not able to do any tattoo or piercing?

  • Category: Minors
  • Subcategory: Body Art
  • Date:
  • State: Pennsylvania

Answer:

In Pennsylvania, minors under 18 cannot get tattoos or body piercings without parental consent. Specifically, a tattoo artist commits an offense if they tattoo someone under 18 without the parent or guardian present and giving consent. Similarly, a body piercer cannot pierce a minor's body for cosmetic purposes without the same consent and presence of a parent or guardian. Violating these rules can result in criminal charges, classified as misdemeanors (18 Pa.C.S. § 6311).

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

In Pennsylvania, you must be at least 18 years old to get a nose piercing without parental consent. If you are under 18, you need a parent or guardian present to provide consent for the procedure.