Important: This article is for informational purposes only. Please read our full disclaimer for more details.
Figuring out the rules for piercings can be as tricky as untangling a pair of headphones, since they jump around from state to state. So what does it really take to get that nose ring?
- In most places, kids need a thumbs-up from mom or dad before they get pierced. For instance, places like New Jersey and Delaware make you show a permission note, and in Pennsylvania, your parents need to tag along (1).
- Ohio says no go to piercings for anyone under 18 unless a parent, guardian, or custodian gives the nod, according to Section 3730.06 of the Ohio Revised Code (2).
- In California, Iowa, Maine, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Washington, kids under 18 can get pierced if their folks are there or give the okay, but tattoos? Nope, not until you’re all grown up (3).
- Idaho slams the brake on piercings for anyone younger than 14. If you’re between 14 and 18, say hello to parental permission for any body mods (3).
- Down in Mississippi, they won’t do any piercing, except for ear lobes, for anyone under 18.
Here’s the lowdown in a bit of a nutshell:
| State | Piercing Age Rule | Need Mom or Dad’s OK? |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio | Under 18 needs permission | Yup |
| California | Under 18 with parental presence or consent | Yeah |
| Idaho | No piercings under 14, 14-18 with permission | You betcha |
| New Jersey | Under 18 needs written permission | Absolutely |
| Pennsylvania | Under 18 with a parent in tow | For sure |
| Mississippi | No body mods under 18, except ear lobes | Indeed |
Minors and Piercing Regulations
Young folks love using nose piercings to wear their personalities on their sleeves (or noses, in this case). But there’s a bunch of rules to keep them safe:
- Parent’s Okay: Most states wanna see a parent’s signature before the needle hits the nose. It’s all about making sure someone’s making good choices.
- Eyes on the Scene: Some states wanna see you drag in the parental unit for the actual piercing. It’s like having your own personal bodyguard.
- No Kids Allowed: Some places draw a line on age. If you’re too young, no dice, even if your folks are cool with it. In Idaho, under 14 is a no-no.
- Paperwork, Baby: Studios often gotta hold onto all these signed papers and IDs to stay on the right side of the law. Mind your Ps and Qs, folks!
If you’re dreaming of that shiny new nose bling, make sure you’re playing by the book. Know the state rules to dodge trouble and keep everything on the up-and-up. Check out more if you wanna know about how long nose piercings take to heal and some handy tips for keeping that piercing clean.
Getting a Nose Piercing Age Requirements
Thinking about getting a nose piercing? Well, it’s not as simple as waking up and heading out the door. Different places, different rules. States across the U.S. each have their own age requirements and guidelines for nose piercings. Let’s break it down:
| State | Minimum Age | Parental Consent Required? |
|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | Any age | Yep, with written consent |
| Delaware | Any age | Written consent is a must |
| Pennsylvania | Any age | Parent needs to chill nearby |
| Ohio | Under 18 | Yep (2) |
| California | Any age | Yep (3) |
| Iowa | Any age | Yep (3) |
| Maine | Any age | Yep (3) |
| North Carolina | Any age | Yep (3) |
| Oklahoma | Any age | Yep (3) |
| Washington | Any age | Yep (3) |
| Idaho | 14 | Yep (3) |
| Mississippi | 18 | You’re good, no consent needed (3) |
Generally, plenty of states will allow minors to get nose piercings if they can get a thumbs-up from Mom or Dad. Just make sure you know if you need a signed note or if they’ve gotta be there in person.
Parental Consent and Age Limitations
Let’s face it, figuring out the rules for minors is like walking through a funhouse of mirrors. Parental consent is the name of the game when you’re under a certain age. Check this out:
- Over in Pennsylvania (4) , bring a parent or guardian along for the ride.
- Ohio (2) makes you get a notarized form. Yeah, fancy paperwork!
- California (3) won’t let you skip the written consent and having your folks around.
If you’ve set your heart on that tiny gold stud or dazzling diamond, knowing how long it’ll take to heal is key. Check out how long it takes for a nose piercing to heal. And hey, while you’re in the self-care mood, prepping with a heat protectant for hair straightening could save you from a few bad hair days. Oh! And if you do run into any little bumps along the way, here are some tips on how to get rid of piercing bump.
Before heading to your chosen studio, peek at their guidelines for piercing minors. For instance, Piercology (5) lays it out clear as day, so you know exactly what’s what.
