Can I donate if my tattoo was done outside a regulated facility?
What this means
- Unregulated or home tattoos: commonly a three-month wait.
- The wait runs from the date you got the tattoo.
- Tattoos from licensed shops in regulated states often have no wait.
What to do next
Count three months from the tattoo date, then book and confirm with the center.
When to call the center: Call if you are unsure whether the facility was regulated.
If you need to wait
About three months from the date of the tattoo.
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
Without sterile single-use equipment, a short wait covers the small infection risk.
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