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
     • Log in or sign up to apply 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.

Questions? Need help?

• Email us: funerals@dol.wa.gov
• Call us: 360.664.1555