Wear & Appearance of Uniforms

General Policy

AR 670-1 prescribes the authorization for wear, purchase, and sale of uniforms. DA PAM 670-1 provides the specific instructions and measurements for wear. Soldiers are responsible for maintaining their uniforms in a clean, serviceable condition. The uniform should fit properly and be worn as prescribed.

All enlisted personnel must maintain their clothing bag items and any supplemental clothing items they are issued. Pride in appearance includes a Soldier's physical fitness and adherence to acceptable weight standards.

Hair Standards (Male)

Hair must be neatly groomed. The length and bulk of hair may not be excessive and must present a neat and conservative appearance. Hair must not fall over the ears or eyebrows. The block cut on the back of the neck is permitted. Sideburns must be neatly trimmed and not flared, and must not extend below the bottom of the ear opening.

Mustache Standards: Mustaches will not present a chopped off or bushy appearance. No portion of the mustache will cover the upper lip line or extend sideways beyond a vertical line drawn upward from the corners of the mouth. Army Directive 2025-18 clarified that locs, braids, and twists are strictly prohibited for male soldiers. Male nail polish is strictly unauthorized.

Hair Standards (Female)

Army Directive 2025-18 heavily clarified female grooming. Ponytails and braids cannot exceed 6 inches past the bottom of the collar. Buns must be centered, max 3 inches from scalp. Female soldiers are authorized clear nail polish only.

Tattoo Policy

• Tattoos or brands are unauthorized on the face and head. However, the Army has authorized the following exceptions:
• One tattoo on each hand (not to exceed 1 inch in measurement)
• One tattoo on the back of the neck (not to exceed 2 inches)
• One tattoo behind each ear (not to exceed 1 inch)
• One ring tattoo per hand

Content restrictions: No extremist, indecent, sexist, or racist tattoos are allowed, regardless of location on the body.

Board Tips

Your uniform will be inspected at the board. Ensure it fits properly, is clean and pressed, and all awards/badges are correctly placed (measured according to DA PAM 670-1). Know the recent updates to the tattoo policy (hand, neck, and ear allowances). Board members often test this by just LOOKING at you — make sure you're squared away. Be prepared to explain the difference between the AR (the policy) and the DA PAM (the how-to guide).