Short Answer
With waiting period in some states
Can You Donate Plasma With Tattoos?
Yes, you can donate plasma with tattoos - but there's often a waiting period after getting new ink. The rules vary by state and whether your tattoo was done at a regulated facility.
The General Rule
- Old tattoos: No problem - donate anytime
- New tattoos: May require 3-12 month wait
- Regulated facility: Often no wait required
- Unregulated/home tattoo: 12 month deferral
Waiting Period Rules
No Waiting Period If:
- Regulated state: Tattoo done in state-regulated facility
- Licensed shop: Professional tattoo parlor
- Sterile equipment: Single-use needles confirmed
- Healed completely: No scabbing or infection
3-4 Month Wait If:
- Some states: Require waiting regardless of facility
- New FDA guidelines: May apply in certain areas
- Center policy: Some centers more conservative
12 Month Wait If:
- Non-regulated state: State doesn't regulate tattoo facilities
- Home tattoo: Done outside professional shop
- Prison tattoo: Done in correctional facility
- Traveling abroad: Tattoo in unregulated country
Rules by State
No Waiting Period States (Regulated)
These states regulate tattoo facilities, so professional tattoos have no deferral:
- California, Texas, Florida, New York
- Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan
- Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia
- Most states with tattoo facility licensing
Waiting Period States (Unregulated)
These states don't regulate tattoo facilities, requiring 12 month wait:
- Georgia (some facilities)
- Idaho, Wyoming, Montana (some areas)
- Check your specific state regulations
By Plasma Center
| Center | Tattoo Policy | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| BioLife | State-dependent | Regulated = no wait |
| CSL Plasma | State-dependent | Follows FDA guidelines |
| Octapharma | State-dependent | Licensed shops OK |
| Grifols | State-dependent | Case by case |
Piercings, Microblading & More
Body Piercings
- Professional piercing: Usually same as tattoo rules
- Ear piercing (gun): Often no deferral
- Self-piercing: 12 month wait
Microblading / Permanent Makeup
- Licensed facility: Usually no wait in regulated states
- Eyebrows, lips: Same tattoo rules apply
Acupuncture
- Licensed acupuncturist: No deferral
- Sterile needles: Required for no wait
Donation Tips for Tattooed Donors
Before Getting Tattooed
- Plan ahead: Get tattoo after donor bonus period
- Choose licensed shop: In regulated state
- Save receipt: Proof of regulated facility
- Document date: Know exactly when you got it
During Screening
- Be honest: Disclose all tattoos
- Know date: Exact date of recent tattoos
- Have shop info: Name and location of tattoo parlor
- Check state regulation: Know if your state regulates
If Deferred
- Mark calendar: Exact date you can return
- New donor bonus: May still be eligible later
- Try another center: Policies vary slightly
Common Questions
Can I donate if I have many tattoos?
Yes! Number of tattoos doesn't matter - only how recently you got them.
What if I can't remember exactly when I got my tattoo?
If it's clearly old (years ago), you're fine. If uncertain on recent tattoos, wait to be safe.
Does tattoo location matter?
No - arm, leg, face, anywhere - same rules apply.
Eligibility policies vary by center and state. Always disclose tattoos during screening. Contact your local center for their specific policy.
This is just one piece of the puzzle. For everything you need to know about plasma donation in 2026—earnings, centers, eligibility, and pro tips—check out our comprehensive resource: