Tattoos, Piercings and Tanning Under Eighteen
Idaho Code § 18-1523 — nothing under 14, and a parent's signature in person from 14 to 18
| Age | Tattoo, branding, body piercing or a tanning bed |
|---|---|
| AgeUnder 14 | Tattoo, branding, body piercing or a tanning bedNot allowed |
| Age14 to 18 | Tattoo, branding, body piercing or a tanning bedOnly with the prior written informed consent of a parent or legal guardian, signed in front of the person doing the work or an employee |
Who handles this in Idaho: legal aid programs and the state offices, listed in the Idaho directory.
Earlobes do not count. Body piercing here means piercing any body part other than an earlobe, so an earlobe piercing is outside the rule. A tanning bed is allowed with a physician's prescription, and emancipated minors are not covered.
A violation is a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500, and $500 to $1,000 for another within one year. Questions about a particular shop go to the local health district.
Sources for this section (1)
- Idaho Code § 18-1523 — Minors — Tattooing, branding, tanning devices and body piercing
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Idaho attorney.