How to Become a Mortician: A Step-by-Step Guide to Education and Licensure


Entering the funeral service profession is a profound commitment to serving others during their most vulnerable moments. If you have a passion for science, a high level of empathy, and an interest in restorative art, a career as a mortician—also known as a funeral director or undertaker—might be your calling. This guide breaks down the essential steps to navigating the educational requirements and the rigorous licensing process in the United States.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Prerequisites

Before enrolling in a specialized program, you must ensure you meet the foundational requirements. Most mortuary science programs and state boards require applicants to:

  • Be at least 18 to 21 years old (depending on the state).

  • Hold a high school diploma or GED.

  • Pass a background check, as this role involves high levels of public trust and legal responsibility.

Step 2: Complete a Mortuary Science Program

The cornerstone of your career is a formal education. You must attend a program accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE).

  • Associate Degree: This is the most common path. A two-year Associate of Applied Science in Mortuary Science covers embalming chemistry, restorative art, funeral service law, grief psychology, and business management.

  • Bachelor’s Degree: Some students opt for a four-year degree. While not required by all states, a Bachelor’s degree can be advantageous for those aiming for management positions or working in states with stricter educational mandates like Ohio or Minnesota.

During your studies, you will balance classroom learning with clinical lab work, where you learn the technical skills of embalming and cosmetology.

Step 3: Complete an Apprenticeship or Internship

Education alone isn't enough to handle the complexities of death care. Most states require a formal apprenticeship period, which typically lasts between one and three years.

  • Hands-on Training: Under the supervision of a licensed funeral director, you will learn how to conduct funeral services, handle the legal paperwork (such as death certificates), and interact with grieving families.

  • Concurrent vs. Post-Graduate: Some states allow you to complete your apprenticeship while you are in school, while others require you to wait until after graduation.

  • Documentation: You will be required to document a specific number of "cases" (embalming procedures and funeral arrangements) to prove your competency to the state board.

Step 4: Pass National and State Board Exams

To prove your professional knowledge, you must pass comprehensive examinations.

  1. National Board Exam (NBE): Administered by the International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards, this test is divided into two sections: Arts (funeral directing, psychology, and law) and Sciences (embalming, anatomy, and chemistry).

  2. State Laws and Rules Exam: Most states require a separate test focusing specifically on the local statutes, health codes, and burial regulations unique to that jurisdiction.

Step 5: Obtain Your State License

Once you have completed your education, apprenticeship, and testing, you can apply for your license through your State Board of Funeral Directors.

  • Dual Licensure: Many states issue a "Funeral Director/Embalmer" license, allowing you to perform both the business and technical aspects of the job.

  • Single Licensure: Some states offer separate tracks if you only wish to handle the service arrangements (Director) or only the preparation of the body (Embalmer).

Step 6: Maintain Your Professional Status

The learning doesn't stop once you have your license. To keep your credentials active, you must participate in Continuing Education (CE).

  • Annual Requirements: Most states require 6 to 12 hours of CE credits per year or every two years.

  • Topics: These courses keep you updated on new environmental regulations, changes in funeral law, and evolving trends like green burials or alkaline hydrolysis.

Summary Checklist for Aspiring Morticians

To stay on track, follow this general timeline:

  • Year 1-2: Complete ABFSE-accredited Associate Degree.

  • Year 2-3: Begin/Complete apprenticeship under a licensed mentor.

  • Year 3: Pass National Board Exams (Arts & Sciences).

  • Final Step: Apply for state licensure and begin your career.

Becoming a mortician is a challenging journey that requires dedication and a strong stomach, but for the right person, it offers a stable and deeply rewarding career path.



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