Can I donate blood if I got a tattoo?
What this means
- Tattoo from a licensed shop in a state that regulates them: usually no wait.
- Tattoo in a state that does not regulate shops, or done at home: wait about three months.
- The center checks where and when you got it.
What to do next
If you are in a regulated state and used a licensed shop, you may be able to donate now.
When to call the center: Call if you are unsure whether your state regulates tattoo facilities.
If you need to wait
Three months when the facility is unregulated. Often no wait when it is licensed and regulated.
Exact timing is confirmed by the center. Set a reminder so you do not have to track it.
Set a return reminderWhy this rule exists
Regulated shops use sterile, single-use equipment, which removes the small infection risk that drives the wait.
This is general educational guidance, not a final eligibility decision. Donation centers make final eligibility decisions during confidential screening. Rules may vary by center, donation type, location, and current policy.
Were you already turned away for this reason? See the comeback plan
Find a place to donate
Search by city, ZIP, state, or center name, or use your location to see the closest centers.
Related questions
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Read the full pledgeSources and review
The guidance on this page reflects published criteria from these organizations. Eligibility and procedures vary by center and country, so confirm specifics with your donation center.
- American Red Cross
- AABB (Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies)
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Blood Donation
- Canadian Blood Services
- Last reviewed:
- Next review due:
- Reviewed by:
- Reviewed against American Red Cross, AABB, and U.S. FDA donor guidance
- Confidence:
- High confidence