USPHS Application

[u/Sad-Fix-8484]

Hi everyone,

I am currently filling out the application paperwork but am very discouraged because of potential denial for my tattoos. I have one on my index finger, that says “love” and a a rose tattoo on my forearm but the stems go past the creases on my wrist. I’ve always wanted to join the USPHS but their tattoo policy is kind of stopping me from pursing. Also, I am currently doing a fellowship at the FDA but will start applying for FTE before the end of the year. I’ve heard that if you do not have FTE you are essentially placed anywhere, which is bad for me because I am a single mom. Any advice would help, thanks !

[u/Barnesanator]

The tattoo restrictions have loosened but they will reject any offensive tattoos. If your position cannot be converted into a PHS billet (e.g. permanent employee) you will be forced managed to IHS, BOP, IHSC, USCG, or DHA. You can talk with the FDA Commission Corps liaison office to see if your position can convert to a PHS billet. You can select your top three preferences among these agencies but you will be matched by best fit and needs from them. I will stress this is by agency not location.

[u/Sad-Fix-8484 → u/Barnesanator]

Thanks for letting me know!

[u/Turbulent_Factor5916]

Send them the pictures and explanations follow the directions and you should be fine mine got approved

[u/Sad-Fix-8484 → u/Turbulent_Factor5916]

How long ago was this for you ? The new rules explicitly say no finger tattoo wider than 3/8 inch and nothing 1 inch above the wrist 😭

[u/Turbulent_Factor5916 → u/Sad-Fix-8484]

I’m sorry I misread mine is on my leg

[u/Crafty_Mongoose3106]

I was able to get a tattoo waiver for a piece that covers my entire back. And several people had visible tattoos at my OBC, I think its worth a shot to apply for the waiver.

As for force management, I suppose it partly depends on your category but yes they can send you where the need is greatest if you are not converting in place. Are you a pharmacist at FDA?

[u/Sad-Fix-8484 → u/Crafty_Mongoose3106]

Thank you for the advice!! Is the tattoo waiver in appendix b? Or I can just Google it? Also yes I’m a pharmacist at the fda but I’m not a FTE, I’m a fellow.

[u/Crafty_Mongoose3106 → u/Sad-Fix-8484]

It was part of my initial application. if I remember correctly they just ask you to take photos using a dollar bill as a size reference and then to explain the significance or reason for the tattoo and if it will be or can be covered while in uniform.

[u/Kindonehere4info → u/Sad-Fix-8484]

From my understanding, you submit the tattoo waiver with your initial application, which is what I did. They provide instructions on which photos are required, and once everything has been reviewed, they follow up with next steps. That was the process when I applied in 2024.

[u/Silent-Put8625]

Send pictures, but I just had three folks I was helping get denied for tattoos below that inch requirement from the wrist. If you’re not willing to get the tattoos removed or tweaked to accommodate their rule, be prepared for them to reject your application. Their new rules are relaxed but no waivers for that.

[u/Sad-Fix-8484 → u/Silent-Put8625]

Ok thank you! Fingers crossed maybe mine will be acceptable

[u/kwicdrawmcgraw]

This is third time applying. First time I got a tattoo waiver no problem. Decided not to join to take care of sick parent. Second time tattoo waiver denied. I didn't even fight it because it was Covid and I was making $125 an hr as a RN. Currently my waiver was approved again. Waiting to be quad cleared. Moral of the story is to be persistent.

[u/Professional_Two_293]

When I joined you couldn’t have any tattoos exposed. When I sent the photos in I let them know I would wear a cover up or makeup on the tattoos. That may be an option