A dove is most often associated with religion.  This is why so many religious or spiritual people choose this as a tattoo.  It is a way to proclaim their beliefs on their skin.  You can get other religious symbols in addition to a dove and you should look further into your own personal religion to determine what your personal beliefs are. 

The other thing a dove is known for is peace.  This is a very important issue for people of all ages and beliefs and a dove can be worn as a tattoo to represent this belief.  Peace has become an ever increasing issue as more and more countries are experiencing disrupt.  A dove can help you to show your feelings about the war and about the world. 

Doves are represented at weddings to.  A pair of doves is associated with ever lasting love.  You can get a tattoo of a pair of doves to represent the person you love. You can incorporate banners with names into this kind of tattoo also if you wish. 

You may also want to tell a story with a tattoo and you can use a dove to represent something significant in your life.  A dove might also represent a person in a larger picture.  You should be very creative and use your imagination to have a unique tattoo that no one else will possess. 

You may just want one single dove in a small location that can be covered and you can do this also. A tattoo of a dove can be as large or as small as you want it to be and it is all about personal preference. 
Dove tattoos are a great way to represent many things.  If you take the time and do some careful planning, you can have a tattoo that has a special meaning to you. 

Summary: Dove tattoos are a great way to express you and your beliefs.  You should learn about the symbolism of the dove, before you decide on a tattoo.  You may want to have more than one dove, or incorporate the dove into a story.  The options are limitless and you have to find the design that resonates within you.