Permanent cosmetic tattooing professional at work
DPOR-Approved Program

Permanent Cosmetic
Tattooing Program

Launch your career in permanent makeup artistry. Master microblading, eyebrow design, eyeliner, lip color, and scalp micropigmentation in AVI's hands-on 200-hour program — approved by Virginia's DPOR.

200 Clock Hours
5 wks Full-Time
60 Performances
Hybrid Delivery
Apply Now › 📞 571-491-4634
Accredited by COE · DPOR-Approved · Tysons Corner, VA
Permanent makeup artist performing eyebrow microblading
🕐
Total Hours
200 Clock Hours100 Theory + 100 Practical
📅
Full-Time
5 WeeksMon–Thu · 9:30am–5pm
🌙
Part-Time
10 WeeksMon–Thu · 4pm–9:30pm
💻
Online Theory
Up to 60 HrsHybrid Delivery
📍
Location
Tysons CornerVienna, VA 22182
Permanent cosmetic tattooing student training at AVI
Professional permanent makeup tools and equipment
Eyebrow microblading technique demonstration
Permanent cosmetic tattooing professional
About the Field

What Is Permanent Cosmetic Tattooing?

Permanent cosmetic tattooing (PCT) — also called permanent makeup or micropigmentation — is the art of implanting pigment into the skin to create lasting enhancements of facial features. It is a rapidly growing field at the intersection of beauty, wellness, and medical aesthetics.

Licensed PCT professionals serve clients who want to reduce daily makeup routines, restore confidence after illness or hair loss, correct asymmetries, or simply enhance their natural beauty permanently.

  • Booming demand: industry projected to grow substantially through 2030
  • High earning potential as independent artist or salon professional
  • Serve clients ranging from bridal to medical micropigmentation
  • Flexible career — clinic, spa, salon, or private studio settings
PCT professional consulting with client
Career Overview

What Does a Permanent Cosmetic Tattoo Artist Do?

As a certified PCT professional, you will work with clients to enhance their appearance through precise pigment application techniques. Each service begins with a thorough consultation and customized color matching.

  • Perform eyebrow microblading and shading techniques
  • Apply permanent eyeliner — upper and lower lids
  • Create lip liner and full lip color enhancements
  • Perform scalp micropigmentation for hair loss clients
  • Conduct detailed client health consultations
  • Mix and match pigments using color theory principles
  • Maintain strict sanitation and bloodborne pathogen protocols
  • Manage client intake, consent forms, and follow-up care
Why AVI Career Training

The AVI Advantage in Permanent Cosmetics

AVI combines rigorous DPOR-approved curriculum with hands-on lab training and real client experience to prepare you for a successful PCT career in Northern Virginia.

✅

DPOR-Approved Program

Our PCT curriculum meets every requirement set by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, ensuring your credentials carry full state recognition.

🖐️

Real Client Hands-On Practice

You complete 60 required practical performances across all major PCT techniques — not just theory, not just mannequins. Actual supervised client work builds real-world confidence.

💻

Flexible Hybrid Delivery

Complete up to 60 hours of theory online at your own pace, then come in for lab sessions. Balance school with life without sacrificing the quality of your education.

🎓

COE-Accredited Institution

AVI Career Training is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE), one of the most respected accrediting bodies in vocational education.

🧪

Professional-Grade Equipment

Train with industry-standard machines, pigments, and tools — the same equipment you'll use in a professional salon or studio setting after graduation.

📋

Virginia Licensing Prep

We guide you through every step of the Virginia DPOR licensing process — from application to exam — so you launch your career fully prepared and compliant.

Curriculum Overview

What You Will Learn

AVI's 200-hour program covers both the science and artistry of permanent cosmetic tattooing — from pigment chemistry to client safety protocols.

🎨

Eyebrow Design

Measure, shape, and apply pigment for natural-looking, symmetrical brows using shading and microblading methods.

✏️

Microblading Techniques

Master hair-stroke microblading with correct blade selection, hand pressure, and depth control.

👁️

Permanent Eyeliner

Apply upper and lower lid liner with precision — from natural lash enhancement to bold liner styles.

💋

Lip Liner & Color

Define and enhance lip borders and apply full-color lip blush or solid pigment for lasting results.

🔬

Scalp Micropigmentation

Replicate natural hair follicles on the scalp to create the appearance of density or a shaved-head look.

🌈

Color Theory & Pigmentology

Understand the color wheel, undertones, pigment behavior in different skin tones, and color correction.

🧬

Anatomy & Skin Science

Study skin structure, healing, contraindications, and how the skin accepts and retains pigment over time.

🛡️

Sanitation & Safety

Maintain a sterile field, prevent cross-contamination, and complete OSHA bloodborne pathogen training.

Program Breakdown

200-Hour Curriculum at a Glance

A balanced mix of classroom instruction and hands-on lab practice ensures you are exam-ready and client-ready from day one.

Subject Area Theory Hours Practical Hours Total
Introduction to Permanent Cosmetics & History404
Anatomy, Physiology & Skin Structure10010
Color Theory & Pigmentology10515
Sanitation, Sterilization & Safety8412
Bloodborne Pathogens606
Equipment, Tools & Machine Operation6612
Client Consultation & Documentation8412
Eyebrow Design & Shading Techniques121830
Microblading (Hair-Stroke Technique)101828
Permanent Eyeliner Application81624
Lip Liner & Full Lip Color61420
Scalp Micropigmentation81220
Professional Standards & Business Skills437
Virginia DPOR Licensing Exam Preparation00Included
TOTAL100100200
Hands-On Requirements

60 Required Practical Performances

DPOR requires PCT students to document and complete a minimum number of supervised practical performances before graduation. You will complete all 60 at AVI.

Eyebrow Design & Shading

10
Required Performances

Full eyebrow design sessions including mapping, shaping, and powder or ombre shading on real clients under instructor supervision.

Microblading

10
Required Performances

Hair-stroke microblading services using a hand tool, demonstrating proper stroke pattern, depth control, and blade pressure technique.

Permanent Eyeliner

10
Required Performances

Upper and/or lower eyelid liner applications ranging from subtle lash enhancement to defined liner styles using a digital machine.

Lip Liner

5
Required Performances

Precision lip border definition services that enhance shape, symmetry, and fullness using cosmetic-grade pigment.

Lip Color (Full)

5
Required Performances

Full lip color services — including lip blush and solid pigment fill — demonstrating color saturation and gradient blending skills.

Scalp Micropigmentation

20
Required Performances

The highest-volume performance requirement: replicate follicle dots on the scalp with consistent size, depth, and density across the treatment area.

Delivery Method

Hybrid Learning: Theory Online, Practical In-Person

AVI's hybrid model lets you absorb foundational knowledge at your own pace online, then apply it in our fully equipped Tysons Corner lab.

💻

Online Theory (Up to 60 Hours)

Complete theory modules through our learning management system on your schedule. Access video lectures, reading materials, and knowledge checks 24/7.

  • Introduction to PCT history and industry overview
  • Skin anatomy, physiology, and healing processes
  • Color wheel, pigment chemistry, and skin tone analysis
  • Bloodborne pathogen training (OSHA-aligned)
  • Sanitation and sterilization standards
  • Client consultation, consent, and documentation
  • Virginia DPOR regulations and licensing requirements
🏫

In-Person Lab (140 Hours)

All hands-on practical work is performed at AVI's campus at 1595 Spring Hill Rd, Suite 720, Tysons Corner, VA 22182. You work directly with clients under instructor supervision.

  • Machine setup, needle selection, and skin prep
  • Practice on synthetic skin before live clients
  • Supervised live client services across all technique areas
  • Color mixing and pigment formulation labs
  • Aftercare instruction and client management
  • Complete 60 required performance logs
What You Train With

Professional Tools & Equipment

Train on the same professional-grade tools used in top permanent makeup studios. AVI equips every student with industry-standard equipment from day one.

🖊️
Digital PMU Machine
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Microblading Hand Tools
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Cosmetic Pigments
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Eyebrow Mapping Ruler
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Rotary Cartridge Needles
🛡️
Sterile Needle Sets
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Numbing Cream & Aftercare
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Medical-Grade Gloves
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Synthetic Practice Skin
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Magnification Ring Light
📋
Client Consent Forms
🪑
Professional Treatment Chair
🧹
Autoclave Sterilizer
📦
Personal Protective Equipment
🎭
Pigment Color Ring
💊
Sharps Disposal System
Schedule Options

Full-Time or Part-Time — Your Choice

Both schedules run Monday through Thursday at our Tysons Corner campus and offer the same comprehensive 200-hour curriculum.

Full-Time

Day Program

5 Weeks

Fastest path to graduation

Monday – Thursday, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Approximately 7–8 hours per day including online modules
Ideal for career changers and full-time students
Part-Time

Evening Program

10 Weeks

Balance work or family while you study

Monday – Thursday, 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Approximately 5.5 hours per evening session
Perfect for professionals and working adults

Both programs are held at 1595 Spring Hill Rd, Suite 720, Tysons Corner / Vienna, VA 22182 · 571-491-4634

Career Paths

Where Your PCT Career Can Take You

A PCT license opens doors across the beauty, wellness, and medical aesthetics industries. Graduation is your starting point.

💼

Independent PCT Studio Owner

Open your own permanent cosmetics studio — set your own pricing, build your own clientele, and grow a business around your artistry.

💅

Beauty Salon or Day Spa

Join an established salon or spa team as the in-house permanent makeup specialist — a highly valued and well-compensated position.

🏥

Medical Aesthetics Clinic

Partner with dermatologists or plastic surgeons to offer areola restoration, scar camouflage, or medical micropigmentation services.

✈️

Mobile or On-Location Artist

Offer services on-location for bridal parties, film/TV productions, or luxury clientele who prefer in-home appointments.

💈

Scalp Micropigmentation Specialist

Specialize in scalp micropigmentation (SMP) — a fast-growing niche serving hair loss clients in barbershops, clinics, and studios.

🎓

PCT Educator or Trainer

With experience and advanced credentials, become a permanent cosmetics instructor at a licensed school or host private hands-on workshops.

Disclosure: AVI Career Training does not guarantee employment, specific income levels, or business success. Career outcomes depend on individual effort, experience, and market conditions.

Licensing in Virginia

7 Steps to Your Virginia PCT License

After completing your 200-hour program at AVI, here is how to apply for your Virginia DPOR license as a Permanent Cosmetic Tattooer.

1

Complete Your 200-Hour Program

Successfully finish all 200 clock hours at an approved school like AVI Career Training, including all required theory instruction and 60 practical performances.

2

Obtain CPR/First Aid Certification

Virginia DPOR requires current CPR and first aid certification. AVI will advise you on approved certification providers in the area.

3

Complete Bloodborne Pathogens Training

Provide documentation of OSHA-compliant bloodborne pathogens training — covered within your AVI curriculum.

4

Obtain Your Performance Records

AVI will provide your signed and stamped performance log verifying completion of all 60 required practical services.

5

Submit DPOR License Application

Apply through the Virginia DPOR's online licensing portal, submitting your school transcripts, performance records, CPR certificate, and application fee.

6

Pass the Virginia Licensing Examination

Sit for the state-approved written examination. AVI's curriculum and exam prep sessions are designed to help you pass with confidence.

7

Receive Your License & Begin Your Career

Once approved, you receive your Virginia Permanent Cosmetic Tattooer license. You are now legally authorized to practice in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Note: Licensure requirements may change. Always verify current requirements directly with the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) at dpor.virginia.gov. AVI does not guarantee licensure.

How We Compare

AVI PCT vs. Other Options

Not all permanent cosmetics programs are created equal. Here is how AVI stacks up against typical alternatives.

Feature AVI Career Training Weekend Workshop Online-Only Course
DPOR-Approved Curriculum ✓ ✗ ✗
Supervised Live Client Performances ✓ (60 required) Limited ✗
Hybrid Online + In-Person Flexibility ✓ ✗ Partial
COE-Accredited Institution ✓ ✗ ✗
Multiple Technique Areas Covered ✓ (6 areas) 1–2 only Theory only
Virginia Licensing Exam Preparation ✓ ✗ Varies
Financial Aid Available Self-Pay Only* ✗ ✗
Bloodborne Pathogens & Safety Training ✓ (included) Separate cost Varies
How to Enroll

Admissions Process

Getting started with AVI's PCT program is straightforward. Follow these four steps to secure your spot.

1

Submit Application

Complete the online admissions application. Domestic and international applicants are welcome.

2

Schedule Consultation

Meet with an AVI admissions advisor to review your goals, schedule options, and enrollment requirements.

3

Review Financial Options

Explore payment plans and financial aid options. Financial aid may be available for those who qualify.

4

Confirm Enrollment

Sign your enrollment agreement, complete required documentation, and reserve your start date.

Start Your Application › admissions@avi.edu
Investment in Your Future

Tuition & Financial Aid

This program is self-pay only. Contact our admissions office for current tuition rates and flexible payment plan options.

Program Investment
Contact Us
Call or email for current tuition rates and start dates
📞 571-491-4634 📧 Email Us

Your Tuition Includes

  • All 200 hours of instruction (theory + lab)
  • Access to professional-grade equipment during training
  • Online learning platform access for theory modules
  • Client service supplies for practical sessions
  • Performance log documentation and verification
  • Virginia DPOR licensing exam preparation
  • Student advising and support services

⚠ Financial Aid Notice: This program is not eligible for Title IV federal financial aid, Pell Grants, or GI Bill® benefits. Students must arrange self-pay or use private payment plans. Contact admissions for flexible payment options.

Financial aid eligibility may change. Always call admissions at (571) 491-4634 or email admissions@avi.edu to verify current status before enrolling.

Student Services

You Are Supported Every Step of the Way

AVI's small class sizes and dedicated instructors mean you get personalized attention — not just a seat in a lecture hall.

👩‍🏫

Expert Instructors

Learn from licensed, experienced permanent cosmetics professionals who bring real-world technique and industry insight to every class.

📚

Academic Advising

An assigned advisor tracks your progress through the program and helps you stay on track toward graduation and licensing.

💰

Financial Aid Advising

Our financial aid team helps you explore all available options for funding your education, including payment plans and qualifying assistance.

🏆

Licensing Exam Prep

Dedicated exam preparation sessions, review materials, and practice tests so you feel confident on exam day.

🤝

Career Development

Resume help, portfolio guidance, and connections to local industry professionals to jumpstart your career after graduation.

🌐

International Student Support

AVI is SEVP-certified. Our international admissions team assists with I-20 issuance, SEVIS registration, and F-1 visa guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

PCT Program FAQs

The PCT program is 200 clock hours total — 100 hours of theory instruction and 100 hours of practical hands-on lab training.
Yes. AVI Career Training's Permanent Cosmetic Tattooing program is approved by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR), which oversees PCT licensing in Virginia.
Yes. Up to 60 hours of theory instruction can be completed online through our learning management system. The remaining practical hours — all hands-on work — must be completed in person at our Tysons Corner campus.
The full-time schedule runs Monday through Thursday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM and takes approximately 5 weeks to complete.
Yes. The part-time evening schedule runs Monday through Thursday from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM and takes approximately 10 weeks to complete — ideal for students who work or have family responsibilities.
All in-person instruction takes place at AVI Career Training, 1595 Spring Hill Rd, Suite 720, Tysons Corner / Vienna, VA 22182.
Permanent cosmetic tattooing uses cosmetic-grade pigments implanted into the epidermis/upper dermis to enhance facial features — it is specifically designed to mimic makeup. Traditional tattoo artists work deeper into the skin with ink designed for body art. PCT requires different training, equipment, and in Virginia, a separate DPOR license distinct from a body art tattoo license.
No prior cosmetology or esthetics license is required to enroll in the PCT program. Our curriculum starts from the foundational level — anatomy, sanitation, and color theory — and builds to advanced technique. Contact admissions for full eligibility requirements.
Students must be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma or GED to enroll. Contact our admissions team for complete eligibility requirements.
The program covers six major technique areas: eyebrow design and shading, microblading (hair-stroke technique), permanent eyeliner, lip liner, full lip color, and scalp micropigmentation. Each area includes both classroom instruction and supervised hands-on practice.
Students must complete 60 required practical performances: Eyebrow Design (10), Microblading (10), Permanent Eyeliner (10), Lip Liner (5), Lip Color (5), and Scalp Micropigmentation (20). All performances are supervised by a licensed instructor.
Yes. OSHA-aligned bloodborne pathogens training is included in the curriculum. You will receive documentation of completion, which is required for your Virginia DPOR license application.
Yes. Color theory and pigmentology are core components of the curriculum — covering the color wheel, warm and cool undertones, pigment oxidation, skin tone analysis, and how to correct color over time.
Yes. After foundational practice on synthetic skin, you will perform supervised services on real clients to complete your 60 required performances. Working with live clients under instructor supervision is central to AVI's training philosophy.
Yes. Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is one of the six technique areas covered, and it has the highest required performance count (20 performances). SMP is one of the fastest-growing niches in permanent cosmetics.
The program covers sterilization procedures, proper disposable equipment handling, autoclave use, maintaining a sterile field, preventing cross-contamination, and proper sharps disposal — all aligned with OSHA and Virginia state health regulations.
Yes. Client consultation is a dedicated section of the curriculum, covering intake forms, health history screening, contraindications, informed consent, color selection, managing client expectations, and aftercare instruction.
In Virginia, you need a Permanent Cosmetic Tattooer license issued by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). To qualify, you must complete a DPOR-approved training program (like AVI's), pass a written exam, provide CPR certification, and document bloodborne pathogen training.
No. Completing the program fulfills the educational requirement, but licensure is subject to passing the Virginia DPOR examination and meeting all state requirements. AVI does not guarantee licensure.
Yes. AVI's curriculum is aligned with Virginia DPOR requirements, and we provide dedicated exam preparation sessions and review materials designed to help students pass the state licensing examination.
Each state regulates permanent cosmetics differently. A Virginia DPOR license authorizes you to practice in Virginia. For other states, you would need to meet that state's individual licensure requirements. Many states accept completed training hours from DPOR-approved programs for reciprocity.
In Virginia, a separate Permanent Cosmetic Tattooer license from DPOR is required — this is distinct from a cosmetology license. You do not need an existing cosmetology or esthetics license to enroll in or complete the PCT program.
After completing the program, you apply through DPOR's online portal with your school transcripts, signed performance logs, CPR certificate, bloodborne pathogens documentation, and application fee. AVI will provide all required school-issued documents at graduation.
PCT graduates can work as independent studio owners, salon or spa employees, medical aesthetic clinic professionals, mobile artists, scalp micropigmentation specialists, or — with experience — as PCT educators or trainers.
Once you hold your Virginia DPOR license, you are legally authorized to practice permanent cosmetics in Virginia. Opening a studio requires meeting additional business licensing, zoning, and health inspection requirements depending on your locality. AVI does not guarantee business success.
The global permanent makeup market has shown strong growth driven by consumer demand for time-saving beauty solutions, aging demographics seeking restorative cosmetics, and increased awareness of scalp micropigmentation for hair loss. However, individual earnings and career success vary and are not guaranteed.
Yes. After gaining your license, many PCT professionals choose to specialize in one or two technique areas they enjoy most. Scalp micropigmentation and microblading are popular specializations with strong client demand. AVI's comprehensive training prepares you to specialize in any of these areas.
AVI provides career development support including resume assistance, portfolio guidance, and connections to local industry professionals. However, AVI does not guarantee employment or specific job placement upon graduation.
Start by completing our online admissions application. An AVI advisor will contact you to review your goals, discuss schedule options, and walk you through the enrollment process. You can also call 571-491-4634 or email admissions@avi.edu.
Financial aid may be available for those who qualify. Contact our admissions office at admissions@avi.edu or 571-491-4634 to discuss your specific situation and explore all available options including payment plans.
New cohorts begin throughout the year. Contact admissions at 571-491-4634 or admissions@avi.edu for upcoming start dates and to reserve your seat.
Yes. AVI Career Training is SEVP-certified and can issue I-20 documents for eligible international students seeking F-1 student visas. Contact our international admissions team for detailed eligibility requirements and the application process.
Required documents typically include a government-issued ID, high school diploma or GED transcript, and completed enrollment agreement. International students have additional documentation requirements. Your admissions advisor will provide a complete checklist during your consultation.
AVI maintains small class sizes to ensure each student receives personalized instruction and adequate access to equipment, stations, and instructor feedback during practical sessions.

Ready to Begin Your Permanent Cosmetics Career?

Join AVI Career Training's DPOR-approved PCT program in Tysons Corner, VA. Flexible schedules, expert instructors, and real hands-on experience await.

Apply Now › 📞 Call 571-491-4634

Questions? Email us at admissions@avi.edu · 1595 Spring Hill Rd, Suite 720, Tysons Corner, VA 22182