Certified Paramedical Tattoo Professional

board certification for paramedical tattooing

Become one of the first artists to earn this distinguished industry designation. Meet State licensing requirements for paramedical tattoo services by earning Certified Paramedical Tattoo Professional (CPTP) designation.

CPTP Logo

CPTP Exam APPLICATIONS

  • 2026 Online Exam Applications open on Feb 15th, 2026

Bloodborne Pathogens courses

Approved SPCP Bloodborne Pathogens Online Courses

How to Get Your CPTP® Certification

In 4 Easy Steps

Step 1:

Apply for CPTP® Certification

Submit your CPTP application.


Your application will be reviewed to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.

You must qualify with:

  • Completed 100 hours of PMU education, with designated hours in paramedical tattooing

  • Hold a current SPCP-approved Bloodborne Pathogens certificate (BBP)

  • Be active in the PMU industry or recently trained

  • Agree to the SPCP Code of Ethics

NOTE: Please read full application requirements below.

Step 2:

Book Your CPTP® Exam

Choose your exam date and get prepared.

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive access to schedule your CPTP® exam.

The exam is delivered online and can be booked at a time that works best for you.

What to expect:

  • Secure, proctored online exam

  • Flexible scheduling

  • Passing grade: 81% required

  • Review Exam Subjects to see exactly what the exam covers.

Step 3:

Pass the CPTP® Exam

Demonstrate your knowledge and professionalism.

Successfully pass the exam to earn your Certified Paramedical Tattoo Professional (CPTP®) credential.

Once you pass, you’ll receive:

  • Official CPTP® certification

  • Permission to use the CPTP® designation

  • Recognition as a certified professional meeting industry standards

  • Listed on the Official SPCP website directory as CPTP

Step 4:

Renew Every 2 Years

Keep your certification current and credible.

CPTP certification must be renewed every two (2) years to ensure continued education and up-to-date standards.

Once you pass, you’ll receive:

  • Completion of required continuing education (CEUs)

  • Updated certificate of SPCP-approved Bloodborne Pathogens certificate (BBP)

  • Agreement to ongoing ethical and professional standards

What is CPTP Certification?

Certified Paramedical tattoo Professional (CPTP) is a board-certified examination for paramedical tattooing certification. It was created by the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP) to address the increasing demand for certifications tailored specifically to paramedical tattoo services.

CPTP stands for Certified Paramedical Tattoo Professional. This board-certification requires applicants to demonstrate a specified number of study hours and training that includes advanced techniques in paramedical, possess a current bloodborne pathogens certificate and successfully complete an industry-specific, board certified exam.

CPTP certification is like other delegations that must be earned and maintained. The SPCP requires its CPTP delegates to renew every two years. 

ABOUT THE EXAM

Starting March 2026, the exam will be offered online with a live proctor and available with flexible, self-scheduled times.

The industry specific exam contains 100 questions

+ A pass of 81% is required for certification

+ The exam encompasses questions related to fundamental theory as well as specific paramedical topics. You can find the subjects covered in the exam listed below

+ The exam IS NOT an open book exam

EXAM & RENEWAL FEES

+ Application fee for all applicants is $300.00 USD and is non-refundable. This fee will cover the 2-year certification period if the exam is passed.

+ Renewal fee for Members is $150.00 USD, and is non-refundable; and for Non-Members it is $250.00 USD, and is non-refundable.

NOTE:

- If renewal fee is paid, but candidate does not qualify for CPTP renewal, the payment is non-refundable.

- If applicant does not pass the exam, the applicant will be charged an additional exam application fee of $150 to re-take the exam.

- If applicant fails to show for the exam or cancels less than 72 hours before, the applicant will be required to re-submit application and pay an additional application fee of $150.00 USD.

CPTP Application & Renewal Information

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS FOR EXAMINATION

+ Technician members of the SPCP are not required to take the CPTP examination in order to maintain membership.

+ Non members may take the examination even though member eligibility is required. This means a candidate must accept and abide by the SPCP Code of Ethics.

CPTP APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

  • A minimum of 100 hours of coursework in the area of body art tattooing or permanent cosmetics, with designated training hours in paramedical tattooing, is required. If less than 100 hours, additional continuing education specific to the industry and including paramedical must be completed to reach a total of 100 hours.

    Note: CPCP certificate holders can apply this towards a total of 80 hours, with an additional 20 hours dedicated specifically to paramedical tattoo education.

  • Proof of hours are required.

    - If they are not listed on a certificate, a short note from the trainer specifying hours is acceptable.

    - Hours will not be accepted if fraud is suspected and/or signed off by your place of business.

    - SPCP audits all continuing education certificates.

  • A certificate from a current Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) class. Classes must be industry specific & on the list of SPCP approved courses. (See List Below). OSHA Standard is required if the candidate works in the USA.

  • The candidate must be currently active in the permanent cosmetics or body art tattooing industry or has recently completed a training program or apprenticeship.

  • A completed application is required with a copy of a photo ID, documentation of classes and/or continuing education, proof of the Bloodborne Pathogens Class, and the required fees. An incomplete submission will not be processed.

    NOTE: Do not send membership certificates or copies of certificates from other programs or industries such as cosmetology, esthetics, nursing, etc.

CPTP RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS

To maintain your Certified Paramedical Tattoo Professional status you are required to renew every 2 years. To renew your CPTP you must;

  • Complete CPTP renewal application & payment

  • Submit an updated certificate of completion of approved Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) class. Classes must be industry specific & on the list of SPCP approved courses. OSHA Standard is required if the candidate works in the USA.

  • Proof of 12 hours of cosmetic or body tattoo industry focused continuing education in the past 2 years, this must include a minimum of 4 hours specific to paramedical services.

    + Proof of hours are required. If they are not listed on a certificate, a short note from the trainer specifying hours is acceptable.

    - Hours will not be accepted if fraud is suspected and/or signed off by your place of business. SPCP audits all continuing education certificates. 

  • Continue to abide by the SPCP Code of Ethics

* Please refer to the SPCP TERMS & CONDITIONS PAGE

BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS COURSES

Approved SPCP Bloodborne Pathogens Online Courses

Preparing For The Examination

EXAM SUBJECTS

The exam will consist of the following subjects

Infection Control

+ Infection Control consists of: prevention cross contamination, hand washing, specific infection control terminology/definitions (such as sepsis, asepsis, sanitation, sterilization, etc.), methods of transmission of infections, knowledge of herpes virus, hepatitis virus, and other bloodborne pathogens and other potentially infectious materials, etc.

Pigment / Inks

Pigments/Inks consist of: color theory (traditional color theory, permanent cosmetics color theory, and differences), undertones, color correction, pigment ingredients (powders, organic, inorganic, carrier/hydrating solutions, etc.), pigment/ink allergic reaction correlation, potential interactions with medical testing equipment, etc.

Technical Application

Technical Application consists of: application of theory to practical application (tattoo technique best practices, skin stretching, practical application of color theory, the healing process, color retention, etc.)

Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomy & Physiology (A&P) consists of: terms used to describe the study of related anatomical and physiological characteristics, their purpose and function, healing processes, etc.

Diseases & Disorders

Diseases & Disorders (D&D) consists of: definitions and characteristics of commonly encountered disorders, methods of transmission, vaccinations, etc.

Regulations

Regulations consists of: health regulations as they may concern permanent cosmetics, regular vs. regulated waste, disposal requirements, and oversight agencies, etc.

Legal

Legal consists of: legal protection/waivers, scope of practice, insurance/ lawyers, documentation/photos, etc.

Client Management/Documentation

Client Management/Documentation consists of: client comfort, client history and procedure documentation, best practices when working with clients, etc.

EXAM RESOURCE LIST

The following resources have been used as reference materials for both SPCP Certification Examinations and can be very helpful for those professionals who would like to review prior taking the exam.

These publications are available through the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals and this website.

Primary Resources

CPTP FAQ's

Do I need to be a member to take the CPTP board certified exam?

No, membership is not required; however, members are awarded a generous discount.

What advantage is there if I am an SPCP member?

SPCP members can take the exam and renew certification at a greatly reduced fee. Only SPCP members may additionally display the SPCP logo.

Is the CPTP Examination required for membership?

The CPTP exam is not mandatory; it is a voluntary credentialing exam. If you choose not to take the exam, that decision does not prevent you from being a member, nor will it replace the membership provisions if the exam is taken.

What is Certified Paramedical Tattoo Professional (CPTP)?

The CPTP is a board-certified examination for paramedical tattooing certification. It was created to address the increasing demand for certifications tailored specifically to paramedical tattoo services.

CPTP stands for Certified Paramedical Tattoo Professional. This board-certification requires applicants to demonstrate a specified number of study hours and training that includes advanced techniques in paramedical, possess a current bloodborne pathogens certificate and successfully complete an industry-specific, board certified exam.

CPTP certification is like other delegations that must be earned and maintained. The SPCP requires its CPTP delegates to renew every two years.

What does this mean?

Certification is a formal recognition of comprehension of a specific body of knowledge demonstrated at the examination time and becomes a long-term investment in a professional's career.

How was the examination developed?

The SPCP Paramedical board certified exam was developed using independent university professors with training in professional test writing. Educational resources are provided by SPCP and industry leaders.

Why has the SPCP chosen not to employ elements of hands-on testing, including chart review or photos of procedural work as part of the certification process?

There are no consistent ways for the SPCP to conduct hands-on testing or to review photos of cosmetic or paramedical tattooing and remain completely objective. Results of testing in this fashion make it extremely difficult to monitor the effectiveness of the candidate or test administrator.

How will I know if I passed?

The exam results will be sent to the email address listed on the application. If you did not pass, you will be informed of the areas of weakness and be eligible to apply for retesting within one year without showing further proof of education. If you do not successfully pass the exam upon the second attempt, you will need to wait a full calendar year and begin the process over again. The re-test fee is greatly reduced. From the 100-question multiple-choice exam, the minimum passing score is 81.

How soon will I receive the results of the exam?

The results will be emailed to you within two weeks of taking the exam. If you do not pass, you will be provided with areas of weakness in the event you wish to study for a repeat and a re-application link will be emailed to you.

Certification renewal is every two years. Do I need to retake the examination?

If the Certified Paramedical Tattoo Professional (CPCP) complies with the guidelines of accumulating at least 12 hours of continuing education in permanent cosmetics and paramedical tattooing every two years, and remains current with their bloodborne pathogens classes, the exam does not have to be taken again. A renewal notice will be sent at least four weeks before your certification's two-year anniversary date. The SPCP must always have a current address since we cannot be responsible for undelivered mail. Failure to renew on time forfeits the right to use the CPTP logo and advertise certification. If the CPTP does not renew on time, re-testing is mandatory, so it is essential to know when your certification expires - listed on the certificate.

How do I apply for the CPTP exam?

You will have to complete an application form and submit all eligibility requirements including; proof of 100 hours of coursework in the area of body art tattooing or permanent cosmetics with designated training hours in paramedical and an updated bloodborne pathogens certificate. There is an application fee to pay upon submission.

What should I expect on the day of the online exam?

The time permitted for the completion of the 100-question CPTP Exam test is 90 minutes.

Once the identification process begins you will not be permitted to leave the testing area for any reason until the exam is completed.

Technical Requirements for Online-Proctored Exams

1. Computer or Laptop with a microphone and web camera (Chromebooks are not compatible)

2. Pop-up blocker disabled or allow site as an exception

3. Test Computer Components – click this link

4. Software required:

a. Questionmark Secure Browser

▪ Some programs are not allowed to run during the exam. The secure browser software will inform you that the program must be closed. Examples include Outlook, Teams, Skype, GotoMeeting, SnagIT.

▪ Make sure to click on the sample assessment link under Step #2 to verify installation was successful.

b. Zoom Client for meetings

Note - if you are using a company computer, please check with your IT department for help downloading/installing software that may require administrative rights.

Taking the Exam

1. Click on My Assessments.

2. A “Launch” button will appear 5-10 minutes prior to the exam start time.

3. Click on the “Launch” button to start the proctoring session in a new window.

▪ Zoom and Questionmark Secure must be installed.

4. Follow the onscreen prompts to connect with the proctor. The following information must be available:

▪ Valid state-issued driver’s license or ID card issued by a US government entity.

▪ The name on the ID must match the information in the user account.

5. The proctor will continually monitor the candidate for suspicious activities and has the authority to terminate the exam if needed. All incidents will be reported to the Oklahoma CareerTech and Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board.

During the Exam:

+ You will control the pace of the exam and only move to the next question when you desire to; keep in mind that 90 minutes are allotted for 100 questions.

+ You will be observed through your webcam by the proctor while you are taking the exam.

+ The exam is also recorded.

+ If any attempts are made to stray from the exam while in session, a red warning screen comes up and the exam can be stopped.

+ The system monitors for unusual test-taking behaviors such as eyes straying from exam.

Completing an Exam in the system

1. Once all questions are answered, submit the exam for scoring. Do not leave the session without notifying the proctor.

2. An overall score is presented on the feedback screen.

3. There is a link to open the official score report. Print the screen.

▪ If unable to print from this screen, log back into the testing dashboard.

▪ Click on My Results and print the score report from this screen

How will I know if my my application has been approved for me to take the exam?

Once your application is submitted, it is reviewed and you will be notified by email no less than 7 days prior to the exam date. If your application is not approved and requires more information, you will be notified by email also.

I received my application approval email & exam voucher code. How do I register for an online exam?

STEP 1. Register an account with the CareerTech Testing Center testing platform

1. Click the link here: https://ondemand.questionmark.com/home/405371/

a. Click on Create New Account tab

b. Enter a username

c. Enter an email address (must be unique to the user)

d. Click on Create New Account

2. An automated email message is sent to confirm the registration with the Oklahoma CareerTech and is pending admin approval.

3. Once the account is approved within two (2) business days, another email is sent with a one (1)-time link to allow the user to set a password.

4. Update the user profile by clicking the option at the top right of the screen

a. Set the First/Last name fields to match the information on the photo ID.

b. Set the time zone.

STEP 2. Buy an exam

Log into the testing platform - https://ondemand.questionmark.com/home/405371/

1. Click on Buy Exam.

2. Select the exam(s) needed & Add to Cart.

3. Select Checkout.

4. Click on “Continue to next step”.

5. Click on “Continue to next step” again.

6. Enter the required information and the unique voucher code provided by SPCP. *You can find this on your approval email.

7. Click on Continue to process the order.

STEP 3. Schedule an exam by clicking the option at the top right of the screen

1. Click on My Assessments.

2. Select the calendar icon under Actions to “Schedule” the exam.

3. Select a Date.

4. Select a Time slot (times are listed in military time).

5. Select Schedule Appointment. 6. A confirmation email is sent showing the selected date/time for the exam.

STEP 4. Take the exam through the platform

1. Click on My Assessments.

2. A “Launch” button will appear 5-10 minutes prior to the exam start time.

3. Click on the “Launch” button to start the proctoring session in a new window.

▪ Zoom and Questionmark Secure must be installed.

4. Follow the onscreen prompts to connect with the proctor. The following information must be available:

▪ Valid state-issued driver’s license or ID card issued by a US government entity.

▪ The name on the ID must match the information in the user account.

5. The proctor will continually monitor the candidate for suspicious activities and has the authority to terminate the exam if needed. All incidents will be reported to the Oklahoma CareerTech and Arkansas Fire Protection Licensing Board.

STEP 5. Completing an Exam in the system

1. Once all questions are answered, submit the exam for scoring. Do not leave the session without notifying the proctor.

2. An overall score is presented on the feedback screen.

3. There is a link to open the official score report. Print the screen.

▪ If unable to print from this screen, log back into the testing dashboard.

▪ Click on My Results and print the score report from this screen.

Can I reschedule my exam?

Rescheduling an Exam

The system allows the existing schedule to be cancelled and a new time/date set. There is no additional charge for cancelling or rescheduling a session.

1. Login to the testing platform dashboard - https://ondemand.questionmark.com/home/405371/

2. Click on the calendar to the right of the exam.

3. Select Cancel.

4. Click to reschedule the exam for another date/time or come back later to reschedule the session.

5. A confirmation is sent showing the changes.

What happens if I do not pass the exam?

If you do not pass the exam with an 81% score, you will be notified by email within 7 days of taking the exam. You will have an opportunity to re-take the exam within 12 months without full application but a fee is payable upon re-application. If you do not pass the 2nd time you will need to wait 12 months and re-apply with a full application submitted.

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