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Arkansas Funeral Service — Requirements & Free Practice

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Apprentice Embalmer Certificate of Registration

Certificate of registration for an apprentice embalmer, distinct from an embalmer license.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Initial apprentice registration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fees.
Background check
Pass the Arkansas State Police criminal background check.
Education
Accredited high-school graduation or equivalent.
Employment authorization
17 CAR § 31-103 admits federal Form I-766 employment-authorization holders who fulfil the Arkansas requirements for licensure.
Initial fee waiver
17 CAR § 32-103 requires initial fee waiver for listed assistance recipients, applicants approved for unemployment within twelve months, or applicants whose income does not exceed 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
Minimum age
At least eighteen years old.
Registration documents
Provide education record, completed application, fee, colour identification and criminal-background-check forms and fees.
Subsequent full licence
ARLRR and, for full embalmer licensure, the NBE examinations belong to later full-licence routes. This certificate’s initial registration document list imposes no licensing examination.
Supervision
Submit the signed statement of apprenticeship and work under the Arkansas-licensed supervisor.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic military, veteran or spouse apprentice registration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligible service relationship
A stationed uniformed-service member; an eligible resident veteran; the eligible spouse of a stationed member or resident veteran; a spouse relocating while excluded from an assigned tour; or a spouse of a member who died in the line of duty who establishes Arkansas residency, as specified in § 30-403(g)(2).
Held licence
Hold in good standing occupational licensure with similar scope of practice issued by another United States state, territory or district.
Testing
17 CAR § 30-403(g)(3)(B): No testing will be required.
Verification
Provide service, veteran or spouse status verification. The current packet expressly states testing exemption when all other requirements are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic new resident apprentice registration — experienced
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
Section 30-403(h) expressly includes apprentice registrations and permits the Board to require or waive ARLRR. That currently offered named examination is retained as a leaf; the requirement’s discretionary nature is an applicant condition.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including background clearance and applicable CE.
Qualification
Three years in a similar occupation where no occupational licence is used.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence; no disqualifying criminal offence or pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation.
Automatic new resident apprentice registration — licensed
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
Section 30-403(h) expressly includes apprentice registrations and permits the Board to require or waive ARLRR. That currently offered named examination is retained as a leaf; the requirement’s discretionary nature is an applicant condition.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including background clearance and applicable CE.
Qualification
One year of similar outside occupational registration in good standing.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence; no disqualifying criminal offence or pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation.
Re registration or restart of apprenticeship
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Delay
Failure to re-register within ninety days of notification requires restart, including case reports. After six years without completion, wait ninety days and restart.
Registration period
Complete apprenticeship within three years; a second three-year registration is available.
Ten year restart
A completed apprenticeship without passed ARLRR must restart after ten or more years under § 30-306.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Transfer or additional apprenticeship location
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees
No additional fee for adding an additional location.
Forms
Complete applicable apprenticeship and statement forms and register every new location before starting there.
Supervisor
Additional supervisors submit signed notarized acceptance statements under § 30-309.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Apprentice Funeral Director Certificate of Registration

Certificate of registration for an apprentice funeral director, distinct from a funeral director license.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Initial apprentice registration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fees.
Background check
Pass the Arkansas State Police criminal background check.
Education
Accredited high-school graduation or equivalent.
Employment authorization
17 CAR § 31-103 admits federal Form I-766 employment-authorization holders who fulfil the Arkansas requirements for licensure.
Initial fee waiver
17 CAR § 32-103 requires initial fee waiver for listed assistance recipients, applicants approved for unemployment within twelve months, or applicants whose income does not exceed 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
Minimum age
At least eighteen years old.
Registration documents
Provide education record, completed application, fee, colour identification and criminal-background-check forms and fees.
Subsequent full licence
ARLRR and, for full embalmer licensure, the NBE examinations belong to later full-licence routes. This certificate’s initial registration document list imposes no licensing examination.
Supervision
Submit the signed statement of apprenticeship and work under the Arkansas-licensed supervisor.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic military, veteran or spouse apprentice registration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligible service relationship
A stationed uniformed-service member; an eligible resident veteran; the eligible spouse of a stationed member or resident veteran; a spouse relocating while excluded from an assigned tour; or a spouse of a member who died in the line of duty who establishes Arkansas residency, as specified in § 30-403(g)(2).
Held licence
Hold in good standing occupational licensure with similar scope of practice issued by another United States state, territory or district.
Testing
17 CAR § 30-403(g)(3)(B): No testing will be required.
Verification
Provide service, veteran or spouse status verification. The current packet expressly states testing exemption when all other requirements are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic new resident apprentice registration — experienced
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
Section 30-403(h) expressly includes apprentice registrations and permits the Board to require or waive ARLRR. That currently offered named examination is retained as a leaf; the requirement’s discretionary nature is an applicant condition.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including background clearance and applicable CE.
Qualification
Three years in a similar occupation where no occupational licence is used.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence; no disqualifying criminal offence or pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation.
Automatic new resident apprentice registration — licensed
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
Section 30-403(h) expressly includes apprentice registrations and permits the Board to require or waive ARLRR. That currently offered named examination is retained as a leaf; the requirement’s discretionary nature is an applicant condition.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including background clearance and applicable CE.
Qualification
One year of similar outside occupational registration in good standing.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence; no disqualifying criminal offence or pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation.
Re registration or restart of apprenticeship
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Delay
Failure to re-register within ninety days of notification requires restart, including case reports. After six years without completion, wait ninety days and restart.
Registration period
Complete apprenticeship within three years; a second three-year registration is available.
Ten year restart
A completed apprenticeship without passed ARLRR must restart after ten or more years under § 30-306.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Transfer or additional apprenticeship location
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees
No additional fee for adding an additional location.
Forms
Complete applicable apprenticeship and statement forms and register every new location before starting there.
Supervisor
Additional supervisors submit signed notarized acceptance statements under § 30-309.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Crematory Retort Operator License

Individual licence for operating a crematory retort.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Late renewal within twelve months
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Active funeral directors and embalmers report six hours annually or twelve biennially; statutory and regulatory exemptions remain available. Retort operators submit renewal and applicable fees.
Deadline
December 31 annually or biennially; delinquent fees apply after the deadline.
Practice during delinquency
Do not practice until the current renewal card issues.
Prior licence
Existing corresponding Arkansas licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic military, veteran or spouse licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligible service relationship
A stationed uniformed-service member; an eligible resident veteran; the eligible spouse of a stationed member or resident veteran; a spouse relocating while excluded from an assigned tour; or a spouse of a member who died in the line of duty who establishes Arkansas residency, as specified in § 30-403(g)(2).
Held licence
Hold in good standing occupational licensure with similar scope of practice issued by another United States state, territory or district.
Testing
17 CAR § 30-403(g)(3)(B): No testing will be required.
Verification
Provide service, veteran or spouse status verification. The current packet expressly states testing exemption when all other requirements are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic licensure for a new Arkansas resident — prior work in an unlicensed occupation
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
The Board may require ARLRR and may waive it if education, training and experience substitute sufficiently and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare. A waiver request goes with the application.
Criminal and disciplinary status
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending complaint, allegation or investigation concerning occupational activity.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including criminal background check and applicable continuing education.
Prior qualification
Work at least three years in a similar occupation in another US jurisdiction that does not license that occupation.
Residency
Establish residence in Arkansas.
Automatic licensure for a new Arkansas resident — prior licence
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
The Board may require ARLRR and may waive it if education, training and experience substitute sufficiently and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare. A waiver request goes with the application.
Criminal and disciplinary status
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending complaint, allegation or investigation concerning occupational activity.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including criminal background check and applicable continuing education.
Prior qualification
Hold in good standing a corresponding or similar occupational licence from another US jurisdiction for one year.
Residency
Establish residence in Arkansas.
Licensure using an out of state licence — nonresident
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Additional proficiency
The Board may require additional proficiency beyond state-law knowledge; the unspecified additional examination slot remains an applicant condition.
Disciplinary status
No revocation for bad faith or violation of law, rule or ethics, and no suspended or probationary occupational licence.
Licence held elsewhere
Valid corresponding licence in another state, territory or provincial authority; at least one year in good standing under § 30-403(a).
Qualification
Qualified in the field. Submit completed application, fees and the issuing authority’s certified licensure statement.
Residency
Applicant does not intend to become an Arkansas resident.
Source conditions
The December 2023 retort OOSL checklist asks for three years of licensure or three years of experience, approved CCP certification, and recent bloodborne-pathogen training. The one-year regulatory eligibility criterion governs; this additional checklist demand is disclosed.
Timing
A temporary working number may be granted for one year pending completion; ARLRR is retained even when passed after application.
Reactivation from inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Notify the Board and submit required forms, including proof of six hours of continuing education, for active status during the one-year inactive period.
Inactive licence
Existing inactive licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual or biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Active funeral directors and embalmers report six hours annually or twelve biennially; statutory and regulatory exemptions remain available. Retort operators submit renewal and applicable fees.
Deadline
December 31 annually or biennially; delinquent fees apply after the deadline.
Practice during delinquency
Maintain current licensing status.
Prior licence
Existing corresponding Arkansas licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive Crematory Retort Operator License

Inactive form of the existing individual licence under § 30-404(h).

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Conversion to inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Held licence
Current corresponding Arkansas licence.
Notice
Notify the Board before current licence expiration; submit prescribed form and fee.
Period
Remain inactive for one year unless requesting early active status under § 30-404(h)(4).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Lifetime Crematory Retort Operator License

Lifetime licence available after fifty years in good standing; renewal-fee waiver and CE exemption.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Lifetime licence after fifty years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees and continuing education
Renewal fee is waived; lifetime licensees are exempt from CE under § 30-506(g).
Good standing
In good standing; the Board may issue a lifetime licence on the fiftieth anniversary.
Licence duration
Corresponding Arkansas licence in force and effect for fifty years or more.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Crematory Retort Operator — Temporary Working Number

One-year temporary working authorization in the out-of-state licensure process; not a separate examination.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Temporary working licence pending nonresident endorsement
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Additional proficiency
The Board may require additional proficiency beyond state-law knowledge; the unspecified additional examination slot remains an applicant condition.
Disciplinary status
No revocation for bad faith or violation of law, rule or ethics, and no suspended or probationary occupational licence.
Licence held elsewhere
Valid corresponding licence in another state, territory or provincial authority; at least one year in good standing under § 30-403(a).
Qualification
Qualified in the field. Submit completed application, fees and the issuing authority’s certified licensure statement.
Residency
Applicant does not intend to become an Arkansas resident.
Source conditions
The December 2023 retort OOSL checklist asks for three years of licensure or three years of experience, approved CCP certification, and recent bloodborne-pathogen training. The one-year regulatory eligibility criterion governs; this additional checklist demand is disclosed.
Temporary issue
The Board may issue a working number on receipt of the application, valid one year. The law examination is taken during the underlying licensure process, not a condition requiring it passed before temporary issuance.
Timing
A temporary working number may be granted for one year pending completion; ARLRR is retained even when passed after application.
Temporary working licence for a new resident — experienced
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Background and discipline
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation; submit background check and applicable fees.
Law exam waiver
The Board may require ARLRR; request any education/training/experience waiver with the application.
Prior qualification
Three years of similar work in a jurisdiction without corresponding occupational licensure.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence.
Temporary period
The Board may issue a one-year temporary working number; apply for ongoing licence by its expiration.
Temporary working licence for a new resident — licensed
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Background and discipline
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation; submit background check and applicable fees.
Law exam waiver
The Board may require ARLRR; request any education/training/experience waiver with the application.
Prior qualification
One year of corresponding outside licensure in good standing.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence.
Temporary period
The Board may issue a one-year temporary working number; apply for ongoing licence by its expiration.

Temporary Certificate of Authorization to Operate a Crematory

Temporary operating certificate after approved construction, inspection and witnessed first operation.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Temporary authorization pending Type C licence approval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Construction
Construction-permit application approved and construction completed.
Duration
Up to ninety days or until licence approval at the first regularly scheduled Board meeting after confirmed installation and operation.
Inspection and operation
Installed crematory passes Board inspection, and successful first operation is witnessed by a Board representative.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Embalmer License

Individual licence to practice embalming; distinct from the funeral-director licence.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Renewal of a licence held on March 3, 1983
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Historical licence
Held the corresponding licence on March 3, 1983 and currently holds it.
Renewal
Renew on the same statutory and regulatory terms as later licensees; the grandfather clause expressly waives examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fees.
Apprenticeship
Twelve months as a registered apprentice in Arkansas under direct personal supervision of an Arkansas-licensed embalmer; assist in fifty preparations and submit signed case reports by the tenth of the next month. Enrol in mortuary school within one year of starting, unless already graduated.
Background check
Pass the Arkansas State Police criminal background check.
Education
Accredited high-school graduation or equivalent.
Employment authorization
17 CAR § 31-103 admits federal Form I-766 employment-authorization holders who fulfil the Arkansas requirements for licensure.
Exam eligibility
Active apprentice registration is required by § 17-29-301(a)(7)(B). Mortuary-school graduates are immediately eligible for ARLRR; other eligible apprentices qualify following case completion or the Board’s stated apprenticeship period.
Initial fee waiver
17 CAR § 32-103 requires initial fee waiver for listed assistance recipients, applicants approved for unemployment within twelve months, or applicants whose income does not exceed 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
Minimum age
At least eighteen years old.
Mortuary education
Graduate from an ABFSE-accredited or Board-approved school of mortuary science and provide the official transcript.
Passing scores
At least 75% on each of the two National Conference Exam parts and on ARLRR.
Late renewal within twelve months
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Active funeral directors and embalmers report six hours annually or twelve biennially; statutory and regulatory exemptions remain available. Retort operators submit renewal and applicable fees.
Deadline
December 31 annually or biennially; delinquent fees apply after the deadline.
Practice during delinquency
Do not practice until the current renewal card issues.
Prior licence
Existing corresponding Arkansas licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic military, veteran or spouse licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligible service relationship
A stationed uniformed-service member; an eligible resident veteran; the eligible spouse of a stationed member or resident veteran; a spouse relocating while excluded from an assigned tour; or a spouse of a member who died in the line of duty who establishes Arkansas residency, as specified in § 30-403(g)(2).
Held licence
Hold in good standing occupational licensure with similar scope of practice issued by another United States state, territory or district.
Testing
17 CAR § 30-403(g)(3)(B): No testing will be required.
Verification
Provide service, veteran or spouse status verification. The current packet expressly states testing exemption when all other requirements are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic licensure for a new Arkansas resident — prior work in an unlicensed occupation
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
The Board may require ARLRR and may waive it if education, training and experience substitute sufficiently and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare. A waiver request goes with the application.
Criminal and disciplinary status
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending complaint, allegation or investigation concerning occupational activity.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including criminal background check and applicable continuing education.
Prior qualification
Work at least three years in a similar occupation in another US jurisdiction that does not license that occupation.
Residency
Establish residence in Arkansas.
Automatic licensure for a new Arkansas resident — prior licence
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
The Board may require ARLRR and may waive it if education, training and experience substitute sufficiently and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare. A waiver request goes with the application.
Criminal and disciplinary status
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending complaint, allegation or investigation concerning occupational activity.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including criminal background check and applicable continuing education.
Prior qualification
Hold in good standing a corresponding or similar occupational licence from another US jurisdiction for one year.
Residency
Establish residence in Arkansas.
Licensure using an out of state licence — nonresident
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Additional proficiency
The Board may require additional proficiency beyond state-law knowledge; the unspecified additional examination slot remains an applicant condition.
Disciplinary status
No revocation for bad faith or violation of law, rule or ethics, and no suspended or probationary occupational licence.
Licence held elsewhere
Valid corresponding licence in another state, territory or provincial authority; at least one year in good standing under § 30-403(a).
Qualification
Qualified in the field. Submit completed application, fees and the issuing authority’s certified licensure statement.
Residency
Applicant does not intend to become an Arkansas resident.
Source conditions
The April 2026 packet requires ASP-122, identification, verification of licence, professional references and a mortuary-school transcript for embalmers.
Timing
A temporary working number may be granted for one year pending completion; ARLRR is retained even when passed after application.
Reactivation from inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Notify the Board and submit required forms, including proof of six hours of continuing education, for active status during the one-year inactive period.
Inactive licence
Existing inactive licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual or biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Active funeral directors and embalmers report six hours annually or twelve biennially; statutory and regulatory exemptions remain available. Retort operators submit renewal and applicable fees.
Deadline
December 31 annually or biennially; delinquent fees apply after the deadline.
Practice during delinquency
Maintain current licensing status.
Prior licence
Existing corresponding Arkansas licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive Embalmer License

Inactive form of the existing individual licence under § 30-404(h).

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Conversion to inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Held licence
Current corresponding Arkansas licence.
Notice
Notify the Board before current licence expiration; submit prescribed form and fee.
Period
Remain inactive for one year unless requesting early active status under § 30-404(h)(4).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Lifetime Embalmer License

Lifetime licence available after fifty years in good standing; renewal-fee waiver and CE exemption.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Lifetime licence after fifty years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees and continuing education
Renewal fee is waived; lifetime licensees are exempt from CE under § 30-506(g).
Good standing
In good standing; the Board may issue a lifetime licence on the fiftieth anniversary.
Licence duration
Corresponding Arkansas licence in force and effect for fifty years or more.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Embalmer Working Number

One-year temporary working authorization in the out-of-state licensure process; not a separate examination.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Temporary working licence pending nonresident endorsement
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Additional proficiency
The Board may require additional proficiency beyond state-law knowledge; the unspecified additional examination slot remains an applicant condition.
Disciplinary status
No revocation for bad faith or violation of law, rule or ethics, and no suspended or probationary occupational licence.
Licence held elsewhere
Valid corresponding licence in another state, territory or provincial authority; at least one year in good standing under § 30-403(a).
Qualification
Qualified in the field. Submit completed application, fees and the issuing authority’s certified licensure statement.
Residency
Applicant does not intend to become an Arkansas resident.
Source conditions
The April 2026 packet requires ASP-122, identification, verification of licence, professional references and a mortuary-school transcript for embalmers.
Temporary issue
The Board may issue a working number on receipt of the application, valid one year. The law examination is taken during the underlying licensure process, not a condition requiring it passed before temporary issuance.
Timing
A temporary working number may be granted for one year pending completion; ARLRR is retained even when passed after application.
Temporary working licence for a new resident — experienced
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Background and discipline
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation; submit background check and applicable fees.
Law exam waiver
The Board may require ARLRR; request any education/training/experience waiver with the application.
Prior qualification
Three years of similar work in a jurisdiction without corresponding occupational licensure.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence.
Temporary period
The Board may issue a one-year temporary working number; apply for ongoing licence by its expiration.
Temporary working licence for a new resident — licensed
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Background and discipline
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation; submit background check and applicable fees.
Law exam waiver
The Board may require ARLRR; request any education/training/experience waiver with the application.
Prior qualification
One year of corresponding outside licensure in good standing.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence.
Temporary period
The Board may issue a one-year temporary working number; apply for ongoing licence by its expiration.

Funeral Establishment Type A — Full-Service Funeral Firm

Board-issued Type A funeral establishment licence for a full-service funeral firm.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Branch location under the establishment licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Prescribed forms and fees; file at least twenty business days before the Board meeting. Manager and owner appear for application discussion.
Branch manager
The same manager may manage two locations when the second is a branch of the same establishment, and must live within fifty miles of each.
Display
A branch within forty miles without display area may use only electronic display.
Inspection
The premises must pass Board inspection before licensure; this is a facility inspection, not an applicant examination.
Insurance
At least $1 million general liability insurance and certificate.
Management
Full-time licensed funeral director licensed at least five years; manager acceptance and embalmer/mortuary-service acceptance forms required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal or reinstatement of delinquent establishment licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees
Submit renewal and applicable per-quarter delinquent fees.
Operation
Cease operation until the licence is renewed.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial establishment licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Prescribed forms and fees; file at least twenty business days before the Board meeting. Manager and owner appear for application discussion.
Inspection
The premises must pass Board inspection before licensure; this is a facility inspection, not an applicant examination.
Insurance
At least $1 million general liability insurance and certificate.
Management
Full-time licensed funeral director licensed at least five years; manager acceptance and embalmer/mortuary-service acceptance forms required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New owner applying under a new establishment name
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Name change
The existing licence is honoured for the new owner until expiry if the name is unchanged; apply for a new-name licence when changing the name before expiration.
Ownership change
Notify the Board in writing at least thirty days before sale or change of ownership.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual or biennial establishment renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Deadline
On or before December 31 annually or biennially; submit renewal forms, fees and required insurance evidence.
Reports
Report current management and other personnel as required for the establishment type.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Replacement licence for approved temporary premises
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board approval
Mobile, modular, manufactured and similar units may be used temporarily only with Board approval; replacement licence is granted if the Board considers it appropriate.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

funeral establishment type b-mortuary service firm

Board-issued establishment licence for a mortuary service firm.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Renewal or reinstatement of delinquent establishment licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees
Submit renewal and applicable per-quarter delinquent fees.
Operation
Cease operation until the licence is renewed.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial establishment licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Prescribed forms and fees at least twenty business days before the meeting; manager and owner appear.
Inspection
Facility inspection must be passed before Board application discussion; it is not an applicant examination.
Insurance
At least $1 million general liability insurance.
Management
Dually licensed funeral director and embalmer licensed as such for at least five years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New owner applying under a new establishment name
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Name change
The existing licence is honoured for the new owner until expiry if the name is unchanged; apply for a new-name licence when changing the name before expiration.
Ownership change
Notify the Board in writing at least thirty days before sale or change of ownership.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual or biennial establishment renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Deadline
On or before December 31 annually or biennially; submit renewal forms, fees and required insurance evidence.
Reports
Report current management and other personnel as required for the establishment type.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Replacement licence for approved temporary premises
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board approval
Mobile, modular, manufactured and similar units may be used temporarily only with Board approval; replacement licence is granted if the Board considers it appropriate.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

funeral establishment type c-crematory authority

Board-issued Type C funeral establishment licence for a crematory authority.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Renewal or reinstatement of delinquent establishment licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees
Submit renewal and applicable per-quarter delinquent fees.
Operation
Cease operation until the licence is renewed.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial establishment licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Prescribed forms and fees at least twenty business days before the meeting; owner appears; state applicant, location, structure, equipment and further information required by the Board.
Inspection
The Board examines the premises, retort operation and inspection report; operator manufacturer training is required. These are facility inspections and applicant conditions, not a new examination.
Insurance
At least $1 million liability insurance.
Management
Full-time licensed funeral director serves as manager.
Permits
Obtain the construction permit, environmental permit and air-quality control certificate.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New owner applying under a new establishment name
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Name change
The existing licence is honoured for the new owner until expiry if the name is unchanged; apply for a new-name licence when changing the name before expiration.
Ownership change
Notify the Board in writing at least thirty days before sale or change of ownership.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual or biennial establishment renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Deadline
On or before December 31 annually or biennially; submit renewal forms, fees and required insurance evidence.
Reports
Report current management and other personnel as required for the establishment type.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

funeral establishment type d-transport service firm

Board-issued establishment license for a transport service firm.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Renewal or reinstatement of delinquent establishment licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees
Submit renewal and applicable per-quarter delinquent fees.
Operation
Cease operation until the licence is renewed.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial establishment licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Board forms and fees at least twenty business days before the meeting. Board-approved owner/manager aged at least twenty-one.
Capacity
Acts as agent of a licensed funeral establishment; may not make public funeral arrangements.
Insurance
At least $500,000 general liability and $500,000 commercial automobile insurance, explicitly covering transport of human remains.
References
Three reference letters, one from a licensed funeral-establishment manager.
Vehicles and staff
Suitable sanitary vehicles, qualified licensed drivers with acceptable driving records, and compliance with the operational requirements of § 30-215.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New owner applying under a new establishment name
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Name change
The existing licence is honoured for the new owner until expiry if the name is unchanged; apply for a new-name licence when changing the name before expiration.
Ownership change
Notify the Board in writing at least thirty days before sale or change of ownership.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual or biennial establishment renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Deadline
On or before December 31 annually or biennially; submit renewal forms, fees and required insurance evidence.
Reports
Report current management and other personnel as required for the establishment type.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Funeral Director License

Individual licence to practice funeral directing.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Renewal of a licence held on March 3, 1983
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Historical licence
Held the corresponding licence on March 3, 1983 and currently holds it.
Renewal
Renew on the same statutory and regulatory terms as later licensees; the grandfather clause expressly waives examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination — standard apprenticeship
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fees.
Apprenticeship
Eighteen months as a registered Arkansas apprentice under direct personal supervision of an Arkansas-licensed funeral director; actively assist in fifty services and submit signed monthly case reports by the tenth of the following month.
Background check
Pass the Arkansas State Police criminal background check.
Education
Accredited high-school graduation or equivalent.
Education in funeral service
Board-approved classroom instruction in practices, ethics, laws and rules; the statute authorizes up to twenty hours and the current checklist requires six hours.
Employment authorization
17 CAR § 31-103 admits federal Form I-766 employment-authorization holders who fulfil the Arkansas requirements for licensure.
Exam eligibility
Be an active registered apprentice. The Board admits eligible candidates following case-report completion, eighteen months of apprenticeship, or accredited mortuary-school graduation.
Initial fee waiver
17 CAR § 32-103 requires initial fee waiver for listed assistance recipients, applicants approved for unemployment within twelve months, or applicants whose income does not exceed 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
Minimum age
At least eighteen years old.
Passing score
Score at least 75% on ARLRR.
Late renewal within twelve months
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Active funeral directors and embalmers report six hours annually or twelve biennially; statutory and regulatory exemptions remain available. Retort operators submit renewal and applicable fees.
Deadline
December 31 annually or biennially; delinquent fees apply after the deadline.
Practice during delinquency
Do not practice until the current renewal card issues.
Prior licence
Existing corresponding Arkansas licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic military, veteran or spouse licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Eligible service relationship
A stationed uniformed-service member; an eligible resident veteran; the eligible spouse of a stationed member or resident veteran; a spouse relocating while excluded from an assigned tour; or a spouse of a member who died in the line of duty who establishes Arkansas residency, as specified in § 30-403(g)(2).
Held licence
Hold in good standing occupational licensure with similar scope of practice issued by another United States state, territory or district.
Testing
17 CAR § 30-403(g)(3)(B): No testing will be required.
Verification
Provide service, veteran or spouse status verification. The current packet expressly states testing exemption when all other requirements are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure — mortuary school graduate with shortened apprenticeship
Application
Submit the completed application and applicable fees.
Apprenticeship
Twelve months. Section 17-29-302(a)(3)(B) permits mortuary-school graduation to substitute for six of eighteen months. 17 CAR § 30-302(d) states that a graduate who has passed the National Conference Exam serves only one year; both currently offered NBE parts remain examination leaves under that Board condition.
Background check
Pass the Arkansas State Police criminal background check.
Education
Accredited high-school graduation or equivalent.
Education in funeral service
Board-approved classroom instruction in practices, ethics, laws and rules; the statute authorizes up to twenty hours and the current checklist requires six hours.
Employment authorization
17 CAR § 31-103 admits federal Form I-766 employment-authorization holders who fulfil the Arkansas requirements for licensure.
Exam eligibility
Be an active registered apprentice. The Board admits eligible candidates following case-report completion, eighteen months of apprenticeship, or accredited mortuary-school graduation.
Initial fee waiver
17 CAR § 32-103 requires initial fee waiver for listed assistance recipients, applicants approved for unemployment within twelve months, or applicants whose income does not exceed 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
Minimum age
At least eighteen years old.
Mortuary school
Graduate from an accredited school of mortuary science.
Passing national examination
The Board’s shortened-apprenticeship rule requires the National Conference Exam already passed; the time of passing is an applicant condition.
Passing score
Score at least 75% on ARLRR.
Automatic licensure for a new Arkansas resident — prior work in an unlicensed occupation
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
The Board may require ARLRR and may waive it if education, training and experience substitute sufficiently and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare. A waiver request goes with the application.
Criminal and disciplinary status
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending complaint, allegation or investigation concerning occupational activity.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including criminal background check and applicable continuing education.
Prior qualification
Work at least three years in a similar occupation in another US jurisdiction that does not license that occupation.
Residency
Establish residence in Arkansas.
Automatic licensure for a new Arkansas resident — prior licence
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Board discretion
The Board may require ARLRR and may waive it if education, training and experience substitute sufficiently and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare. A waiver request goes with the application.
Criminal and disciplinary status
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending complaint, allegation or investigation concerning occupational activity.
Other requirements
Meet other occupational and renewal requirements, including criminal background check and applicable continuing education.
Prior qualification
Hold in good standing a corresponding or similar occupational licence from another US jurisdiction for one year.
Residency
Establish residence in Arkansas.
Licensure using an out of state licence — nonresident
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Additional proficiency
The Board may require additional proficiency beyond state-law knowledge; the unspecified additional examination slot remains an applicant condition.
Disciplinary status
No revocation for bad faith or violation of law, rule or ethics, and no suspended or probationary occupational licence.
Licence held elsewhere
Valid corresponding licence in another state, territory or provincial authority; at least one year in good standing under § 30-403(a).
Qualification
Qualified in the field. Submit completed application, fees and the issuing authority’s certified licensure statement.
Residency
Applicant does not intend to become an Arkansas resident.
Source conditions
The April 2026 packet requires ASP-122, identification, verification of licence, professional references and a mortuary-school transcript for embalmers.
Timing
A temporary working number may be granted for one year pending completion; ARLRR is retained even when passed after application.
Reactivation from inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Notify the Board and submit required forms, including proof of six hours of continuing education, for active status during the one-year inactive period.
Inactive licence
Existing inactive licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual or biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Active funeral directors and embalmers report six hours annually or twelve biennially; statutory and regulatory exemptions remain available. Retort operators submit renewal and applicable fees.
Deadline
December 31 annually or biennially; delinquent fees apply after the deadline.
Practice during delinquency
Maintain current licensing status.
Prior licence
Existing corresponding Arkansas licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive Funeral Director License

Inactive form of the existing individual licence under § 30-404(h).

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Conversion to inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Held licence
Current corresponding Arkansas licence.
Notice
Notify the Board before current licence expiration; submit prescribed form and fee.
Period
Remain inactive for one year unless requesting early active status under § 30-404(h)(4).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Lifetime Funeral Director License

Lifetime licence available after fifty years in good standing; renewal-fee waiver and CE exemption.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Lifetime licence after fifty years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fees and continuing education
Renewal fee is waived; lifetime licensees are exempt from CE under § 30-506(g).
Good standing
In good standing; the Board may issue a lifetime licence on the fiftieth anniversary.
Licence duration
Corresponding Arkansas licence in force and effect for fifty years or more.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Funeral Director Working Number

One-year temporary working authorization in the out-of-state licensure process; not a separate examination.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Temporary working licence pending nonresident endorsement
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Additional proficiency
The Board may require additional proficiency beyond state-law knowledge; the unspecified additional examination slot remains an applicant condition.
Disciplinary status
No revocation for bad faith or violation of law, rule or ethics, and no suspended or probationary occupational licence.
Licence held elsewhere
Valid corresponding licence in another state, territory or provincial authority; at least one year in good standing under § 30-403(a).
Qualification
Qualified in the field. Submit completed application, fees and the issuing authority’s certified licensure statement.
Residency
Applicant does not intend to become an Arkansas resident.
Source conditions
The April 2026 packet requires ASP-122, identification, verification of licence, professional references and a mortuary-school transcript for embalmers.
Temporary issue
The Board may issue a working number on receipt of the application, valid one year. The law examination is taken during the underlying licensure process, not a condition requiring it passed before temporary issuance.
Timing
A temporary working number may be granted for one year pending completion; ARLRR is retained even when passed after application.
Temporary working licence for a new resident — experienced
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Background and discipline
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation; submit background check and applicable fees.
Law exam waiver
The Board may require ARLRR; request any education/training/experience waiver with the application.
Prior qualification
Three years of similar work in a jurisdiction without corresponding occupational licensure.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence.
Temporary period
The Board may issue a one-year temporary working number; apply for ongoing licence by its expiration.
Temporary working licence for a new resident — licensed
Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam
Background and discipline
No disqualifying criminal offence and no pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation; submit background check and applicable fees.
Law exam waiver
The Board may require ARLRR; request any education/training/experience waiver with the application.
Prior qualification
One year of corresponding outside licensure in good standing.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residence.
Temporary period
The Board may issue a one-year temporary working number; apply for ongoing licence by its expiration.

Transport Driver Registration

Driver registration for each transport service firm under § 17-29-315.

Licensing authority: Arkansas State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services · Application information

Initial driver registration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least eighteen.
Application
Written registration for each transport firm, forms, fees, required information and an acceptable vehicle.
Driver licence
Valid Arkansas driver licence appropriate to the vehicle.
Driving record
Acceptable driving record.
Training
Initial OSHA bloodborne-pathogen training.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Arkansas Laws, Rules, and Regulations Exam

Provider
The Conference; Pearson VUE
Format
Timed computer-based multiple-choice examination
Exam questions
50 items in the Arkansas row of the September 2023 Candidate Handbook
Time limit
1 hour
Passing score
75%
Practice scope

Inferred from the examination name; the authority has not published an examination outline.

  • Arkansas Code Chapter 29 — Embalmers, Funeral Directors, and Funeral Establishments (enumerated sections)
  • Arkansas Code Chapter 61, enumerated Board provisions
  • 17 CAR Part 30 — Rules Pertaining to Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Funeral Establishments, Crematories, Crematory Retort Operators, and Transport Services
  • 17 CAR Part 31 — Licensure of Certain Individuals
Examination sources

National Board Exam Arts

Provider
The International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards (The Conference); computer-based exam administered by Pearson at Pearson Professional Centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination, administered, paid for, scheduled and scored separately from the NBE-Sciences section; a basic calculator is built into the exam software
Exam questions
170 multiple-choice questions: 150 scored and 20 non-scored pretest questions
Time limit
170 minutes for the exam (the appointment also includes a 3-minute non-disclosure agreement, a 3-minute release-of-results screen and a 7-minute tutorial)
Passing score
Scaled score of 75 (pass/fail)
Exam fee
$285 per section
Examination outline
  • I. Funeral Arranging and Directing (51 of 150 scored items; 34% of the NBE-Arts blueprint) (34%)
  • II. Funeral Service Marketing/Merchandising (21 of 150 scored items; 14% of the NBE-Arts blueprint) (14%)
  • III. Funeral Service Counseling (19 of 150 scored items; 13% of the NBE-Arts blueprint) (13%)
  • IV. Legal and Regulatory Compliance (35 of 150 scored items; 23% of the NBE-Arts blueprint) (23%)
  • V. Cemetery/Crematory/Other Dispositions (24 of 150 scored items; 16% of the NBE-Arts blueprint) (16%)
Examination sources

National Board Exam Sciences

Provider
The International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards (The Conference); computer-based exam administered by Pearson at Pearson Professional Centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination, administered, paid for, scheduled and scored separately from the NBE-Arts section; a basic calculator is built into the exam software
Exam questions
170 multiple-choice questions: 150 scored and 20 non-scored pretest questions
Time limit
170 minutes for the exam (the appointment also includes a 3-minute non-disclosure agreement, a 3-minute release-of-results screen and a 7-minute tutorial)
Passing score
Scaled score of 75 (pass/fail)
Exam fee
$285 per section
Examination outline
  • I. Embalming (62 of 150 scored items; 41% of the NBE-Sciences blueprint) (41%)
  • II. Restorative Art (34 of 150 scored items; 23% of the NBE-Sciences blueprint) (23%)
  • III. Other Preparation of the Deceased (28 of 150 scored items; 19% of the NBE-Sciences blueprint) (19%)
  • IV. Funeral Service Sciences (26 of 150 scored items; 17% of the NBE-Sciences blueprint) (17%)
Examination sources