How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Tattoo in North Carolina?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 26, 2020

According to the North Carolina General Statues, it is unlawful to tattoo anyone under the age of 18. Doing so would be considered a Class 2 misdemeanor.

The state also prohibits an individual under the age of 18 from piercing any body part other than the ears without the prior consent of a parent or guardian. The requirements to get tattoos or piercings generally vary from state to state. South Carolina, for example, prohibits the tattooing of anyone under the age of 21 without parental consent. New Jersey, on the other hand, allows body piercings or tattoos on any minors with parental consent.