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How to get your license: Embalmers

Who needs a license?

Anyone who disinfects and preserves human remains for transportation or final disposition.

Requirements

To get a license as an embalmer, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Meet at least one of the following education requirements:
    • Have an Associate of Arts degree in Mortuary Science.
    • Meet the alternative education requirements below.
    • Have at least 5 years of active licensed experience in another state.
  • Complete an embalmer internship.
  • Take and pass the licensing exam.

Alternative education requirements

If you don't have an Associate of Arts degree in Mortuary Science, you must pass college-level courses at an accredited mortuary science college program.

  • You must complete at least 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits.
  • You can earn credits at more than 1 college. The mortuary science school will decide if courses from other schools are transferable.

Out-of-state applicants

  • If you have 5 years or more of active licensed experience in another state, you don't need to meet the education requirements.
  • If you have less than 5 years of active licensed experience in another state, you must meet the education requirements.

What you'll need sent to us

  • Official copy of your National Board scores.
  • Official transcripts, if you want education to be applied toward experience.
  • License history and exam verifications, if you have out-of-state experience.

How to apply

  1. Submit your license application:
    • Online
    • By Mail
      • Mail a completed Funeral Director/Embalmer License Application with a check or money order for the application fee (payable to the Department of Licensing):
        Funeral and Cemetery Board
        Funeral and Cemetery Board
        PO Box 3777
        Seattle, WA 98124-3777
    • Have any official transcripts, National Board Scores, or license history and exam verifications sent to:
      Funeral & Cemetery Board
      PO Box 9012
      Olympia, WA 98507-9012

If applying by mail please allow 7 – 10 business days, not including mailing time, to process your application.

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