Those who qualify can use G.I. Bill benefits and other VA benefits programs to attend a Tattoo school. Here is a list of VA approved Tattoo schools that currently accept GI Bill benefits and other VA benefits programs. While the US military has policies restricting certain tattoos and where they appear on your body, the VA allows training and apprenticeship at approved tattoo schools.
Tattoo Schools Approved for GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill Benefits
The GI Bill is available for training at non-college-degree Institutions. This includes the training in areas such as HVAC repair, truck driving, emergency medical training, barber/beautician schools and tattoo schools!
Eugene Tattoo Company
Location: Eugene, OR
About: Eugene Tattoo and Body Piercing Company is a state licensed Private Tattoo Career School through the HECC (Higher Education Coordinating Commission).
Master Tattoo Institute
Location: Miami Beach, FL
About: The Tattoo Certificate Program blends tattoo history, sterilization and aseptic techniques, and bloodborne pathogens with tattoo shop safety, tattoo inks, and color theory. Upon successful completion of the Tattoo Program, each student will have earned 160 clock hours. In addition, tattoo licensure and bloodborne pathogens certification is awarded. Master Tattoo institute is approved for the following VA Programs (subject to change, always verify with the VA)
- Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD) – Chapter 30
- Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) – Chapter 31
- Post-9/11 & Forever GI Bill – Chapter 33
- Montgomery GI Bill-SR – Chapter 1606
Body Art & Soul Tattoos
Locations: Brooklyn, NY; Berger County, NJ; Jersey City, NJ; Los Angeles, CA; New Haven, CT; Philadelphia, PA
About: Tattoo and piercing apprenticeships at Body Art & Soul Tattoos are based on the traditional tattoo apprenticeship and piercing apprenticeship models with an increased focus on ongoing professional development, practice assessments, and real work experience. Veterans who qualify for the Ch 31 Vocational Rehabilitation VA program can enter into tattoo apprenticeships at the Body Art & Soul Tattoo Studio.
Tattoo Schools Approved for VA On-the-Job-Training/Apprenticeship Programs:
Both on-the-job (OJT) and apprenticeship training programs are available for Veterans using their VA education benefits, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill. These programs allow Veterans to learn a trade or skill through training on the job participation rather than attending formal classroom instruction. Although the participation requirements are the same for all GI Bill programs, the payment amount varies depending on the program.
Empyre Tattoo
Location: Carthage, NY
The Tattoo Studio
Location: Harker Heights, TX
Top Gun Tattoo
Location: St Robert, MO
VA Approved Closed Tattoo Locations (Currently on the VA approved list)
- Moonlight School of Tattoo – Hot Springs, AR
- Tattoo City – Monroe, OH
- Tattoos Forever – Evans Mills, NY
Eligibility for education benefits is determined solely by the VA, questions regarding eligibility should be directed to its representatives at benefits.va.gov/gibill or 1-888-442-4551.
Use the Veterans Affairs Institution Search tool to verify coding schools are approved for VA benefits. Approved schools and VA programs are subject to change.
Joe Wallace is a 13-year veteran of the United States Air Force and a former reporter for Air Force Television News
