How to get your license: Certificate of Removal Registration
Who needs a license?
Funeral establishments licensed in states that border Washington State, with similar laws, may apply for this registration for the limited purpose of removing human remains from Washington State prior to submitting a Certificate of Death
The conduct of funeral directors, embalmers or any other person employed by or acting on behalf of a removal registrant is the direct responsibility of the holder of the Certificate of Removal Registration.
The Funeral and Cemetery Board may impose sanctions on the holder of a Certificate of Removal Registration if the registrant is found to be in violation of any death care statute or rule.
Certificate of Removal Registrations expire on January 31, or as otherwise determined by the Director.
Certificates of Death, Notices of Removal, and Disposition Permits are governed by the Department of Health under RCW 70.58.160 and 70.58.230.
Requirements
To get a Certificate of Removal Registration you must:
- Be a licensed funeral establishment contiguous to Washington State.
- Each branch of a registrant's funeral establishment is a separate establishment and must be registered as a fixed place of business.
How to apply
Submit an application:
Online
- Log in or sign up to renew online.
By mail
- Submit all of the following:
- Complete and sign the Certificate of Removal Registration Application
- You must include your UBI number on the application.
- Be sure to include the names and addresses of the sole proprietor, partners, or corporate officers.
- Check or money order for the application fee (payable to the Department of Licensing).
Expiration dates
All funeral establishment licenses expire on January 31 each year. You must renew your license annually.
License not transferable
All Certificates of Removal Registrations will expire on January 31 each year. You must renew your certificate annually.
Questions? Need help?
- Email us: funerals@dol.wa.gov
- Call us: 360.664.1555 or 360.664.6597
