In the state of Texas, specific requirements must be met for a minor child (under 18 years of age) to legally receive a piercing. These requirements are designed to ensure that both the minor and their parent or guardian are adequately informed and consenting. Below is a summary of the key criteria that must be met:
1. Valid Photo Identification for the Minor
The minor seeking the piercing must provide a valid form of photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- School ID: Must display the minor’s name and a photograph.
- Passport: A current passport showing the minor’s name and photograph.
- State ID: An official state-issued identification card.
- Other Physical Photo ID: Any other physical ID containing both a photograph and the minor’s name.
In addition to the above, the minor’s BIRTH CERTIFICATE must also be provided to confirm identity and relationship to the parent or guardian.
2. Parent or Legal Guardian Presence
The minor’s parent or legal guardian must be present at the time of the piercing and must bring their own valid, government-issued photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Passport
The parent or guardian's ID must match the name of the parent on the minor’s birth certificate.
3. Legal Guardianship Requirements
If the adult present is a legal guardian rather than the parent listed on the minor’s birth certificate, additional documentation is required. The legal guardian must provide court documents signed by a judge that explicitly grant them the right to make decisions regarding the minor’s health and well-being. This documentation is mandatory to authorize the piercing.
This means that older siblings, friends or step parents CANNOT sign for a minor child to get a piercing without legal guardianship paperwork.
** Important Notes **
- No ID, No Birth Certificate, No Piercing: If either the minor or the accompanying adult does not have the required identification or birth certificate, the piercing will not be performed. WE DO NOT ACCEPT PHOTOS OR COPIES OF IDS OR BIRTH CERTIFICATES. They must be PHYSICAL forms.
- The youngest age pierced at Copperhead is 12 years old.
Body Piercings performed on minors include:
12 years old- Lobes only
13 to 17 years old- everything except surface piercings/dermal anchors, nipples, and genitals.
These regulations help ensure that the minor's best interests are protected and that all legal obligations are satisfied before a piercing is performed.
