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Georgia Funeral Service — Requirements & Free Practice

US-GA · License preparation

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apprentice registration

Board registration required to receive credit for time served as a funeral service apprentice.

Licensing authority: Georgia State Board of Funeral Service

Apprentice registration at another establishment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Oath-verified Board application and fee; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters; complete application at least 15 business days before a meeting, with Board majority approval.
Change
Changing the establishment requires a new Board application and approval.
Education
High-school graduation or GED.
Establishment
Designate a Board-approved Georgia establishment; r. 250-4-.02(1)(e) requires an average of at least 30 funerals annually in the previous five years.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Fee exception
No additional location-change fee when the Board withdraws approval from the former establishment.
Minimum age
At least 18.
Optional exam eligibility
PSI permits a Board-authorized apprentice to schedule the law examination during apprenticeship. R. 250-4-.02 and O.C.G.A. 43-18-50(a) define registration qualifications without making that examination a prerequisite to apprentice registration.
Registration
Credit for apprenticeship service requires current Board registration.
Supervisor
Designate a Board-approved Georgia embalmer/funeral-director supervisor.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Apprentice registration with a new supervisor
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Oath-verified Board application and fee; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters; complete application at least 15 business days before a meeting, with Board majority approval.
Change
Changing the supervising funeral director or embalmer requires a new Board application and approval.
Education
High-school graduation or GED.
Establishment
Designate a Board-approved Georgia establishment; r. 250-4-.02(1)(e) requires an average of at least 30 funerals annually in the previous five years.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Fee exception
No additional change-of-supervisor fee when the former supervisor loses approval or becomes unable to continue.
Minimum age
At least 18.
Optional exam eligibility
PSI permits a Board-authorized apprentice to schedule the law examination during apprenticeship. R. 250-4-.02 and O.C.G.A. 43-18-50(a) define registration qualifications without making that examination a prerequisite to apprentice registration.
Registration
Credit for apprenticeship service requires current Board registration.
Supervisor
Designate a Board-approved Georgia embalmer/funeral-director supervisor.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial apprentice registration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Oath-verified Board application and fee; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters; complete application at least 15 business days before a meeting, with Board majority approval.
Education
High-school graduation or GED.
Establishment
Designate a Board-approved Georgia establishment; r. 250-4-.02(1)(e) requires an average of at least 30 funerals annually in the previous five years.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Minimum age
At least 18.
Optional exam eligibility
PSI permits a Board-authorized apprentice to schedule the law examination during apprenticeship. R. 250-4-.02 and O.C.G.A. 43-18-50(a) define registration qualifications without making that examination a prerequisite to apprentice registration.
Registration
Credit for apprenticeship service requires current Board registration.
Supervisor
Designate a Board-approved Georgia embalmer/funeral-director supervisor.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late apprentice renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Renewal application, regular fee and penalty fee from April 1 through April 30.
Practice
No apprentice practice or hour credit during late renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Apprentice reregistration after nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply within one year of expiration with application, renewal fee and penalty fee.
Board discretion
Board may refuse; no more than two reinstatements.
Hours
Hours after revocation and before reinstatement cannot count.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial apprentice renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application and renewal fee by March 31 of even-numbered years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Apprentice reregistration after suspension or revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply within one year after suspension or revocation.
Board discretion
No more than two applications may be approved; Board decides credit for prior service.
Credit limit
After disciplinary suspension or revocation under 43-18-54(b), at most 75 percent of prior hours may be credited.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333

    Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333, XML law L1990V1N354, printed page 1390, reregistration after expiration, suspension or revocation [ZIP member: galaws.xml]

  • Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333

    Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333, XML law L1990V1N354, printed page 1391, credit limit following disciplinary suspension or revocation [ZIP member: galaws.xml]

Return from apprenticeship leave at another site or with different personnel
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Oath-verified Board application and fee; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters; complete application at least 15 business days before a meeting, with Board majority approval.
Education
High-school graduation or GED.
Establishment
Designate a Board-approved Georgia establishment; r. 250-4-.02(1)(e) requires an average of at least 30 funerals annually in the previous five years.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Minimum age
At least 18.
Optional exam eligibility
PSI permits a Board-authorized apprentice to schedule the law examination during apprenticeship. R. 250-4-.02 and O.C.G.A. 43-18-50(a) define registration qualifications without making that examination a prerequisite to apprentice registration.
Registration
Credit for apprenticeship service requires current Board registration.
Return
New application and fee are required when the returning apprentice changes facility or personnel.
Supervisor
Designate a Board-approved Georgia embalmer/funeral-director supervisor.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return from apprenticeship leave at the same site
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Leave
Board-approved leave for good cause; no credit during leave, with aggregate leave capped at four years in the official statutory text.
Return
Same establishment and supervisory personnel; certified resumption notice to the Board within 30 days of leave ending.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333

    Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333, XML law L1990V1N354, printed page 1388–1389, leave approval and maximum aggregate duration [ZIP member: galaws.xml]

  • Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333

    Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333, XML law L1990V1N354, printed page 1389, resumption at the same establishment and with the same supervisors [ZIP member: galaws.xml]

  • Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333

    Georgia Laws 1990, Act 1333, XML law L1990V1N354, printed page 1389, resumption at a different facility or with different personnel [ZIP member: galaws.xml]

Funeral Service Board-Approved Instructor Status

Board-approved status for continuing education instructors, expiring March 31 of even-numbered years.

Licensing authority: Georgia State Board of Funeral Service

Initial Board approval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Instructor application and nonrefundable fee submitted by the provider.
Experience
At least five years of supervisory funeral-service experience, or other experience or education accepted by the Board in its discretion.
Topics
Describe instructor topic qualifications with resume or equivalent evidence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of Board approval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Instructor application and nonrefundable fee submitted by the provider.
Experience
At least five years of supervisory funeral-service experience, or other experience or education accepted by the Board in its discretion.
Renewal
Status expires March 31 of even-numbered years; submit a new application and nonrefundable fee for the next cycle.
Topics
Describe instructor topic qualifications with resume or equivalent evidence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Funeral Service Board-Approved Continuing Education Provider

Board approval for continuing education providers to offer programs in approved topic areas and certify educational clock hours; status expires March 31 of even-numbered years.

Licensing authority: Georgia State Board of Funeral Service

Provider approval for additional topic areas
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit provider application and fee, additional topic descriptions, instructor qualifications and program outlines for those additional areas.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial Board approval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Provider application and nonrefundable fee.
Instructors
Identify instructors, qualified topics, resumes or other qualification evidence.
Limitations
Offer only approved topic areas and certify educational clock hours; Board monitoring and withdrawal of approval apply.
Programs
Submit program outlines, instructors, objectives, schedules and instructional material.
Topics
Describe requested approved topic areas.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial renewal of Board approval
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Provider application and nonrefundable fee.
Instructors
Identify instructors, qualified topics, resumes or other qualification evidence.
Limitations
Offer only approved topic areas and certify educational clock hours; Board monitoring and withdrawal of approval apply.
Programs
Submit program outlines, instructors, objectives, schedules and instructional material.
Renewal
Status expires March 31 of even-numbered years; submit a new application and nonrefundable fee for the next cycle.
Topics
Describe requested approved topic areas.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Crematory License

License to operate a crematory under a specified name, at a specified location, and under a specified funeral director in full and continuous charge.

Licensing authority: Georgia State Board of Funeral Service

Continuation of facility license after holder death
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Facility
Maintain applicable facility and FCC requirements.
Successor
License passes to the deceased holder’s legal representative, or if none, the widow, for the unexpired term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Amendment after change of Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Appearance
New FCC and owners or authorized corporate representatives must appear for the Board determination, with the specified owner/FCC waiver.
Fcc eligibility
Normally at least three years of licensed funeral-director employment, except an owner of the relevant establishment; applicable criminal-probation restrictions and disciplinary-history appearance requirements apply.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Notice
Report FCC changes in writing within five days.
Operator training
Disclose device number and type; FCC and every device operator must document Board-approved device training, and operators must be certified by a Board-approved crematory-operator course.
Separate license
A separate crematory license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial facility licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Complete Board-approved application and proper fee at least 15 days before a meeting; approval by majority vote.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
Inspection
Board inspection after a deficiency-free administrative review and before the Board meeting; comply with the applicable equipment, facility, sanitary and inspection standards. Reinspection requires the stated fee.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose device number and type; FCC and every device operator must document Board-approved device training, and operators must be certified by a Board-approved crematory-operator course.
Separate license
A separate crematory license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late facility renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application, renewal fee and late-renewal fee between April 1 and April 30 following expiration.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose device number and type; FCC and every device operator must document Board-approved device training, and operators must be certified by a Board-approved crematory-operator course.
Separate license
A separate crematory license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility license after address or location change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application and fee; a new license number is issued on Board approval. The existing license cannot transfer to another location.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose device number and type; FCC and every device operator must document Board-approved device training, and operators must be certified by a Board-approved crematory-operator course.
Separate license
A separate crematory license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility license after name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application and appropriate fee; new license number is issued on Board approval.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose device number and type; FCC and every device operator must document Board-approved device training, and operators must be certified by a Board-approved crematory-operator course.
Separate license
A separate crematory license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility licensure following ownership change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application and fee.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
Implementation notice
R. 250-6-.02(3) states submission within 15 days of the change and requires notarized seller and purchaser signatures. The statutory advance-notice requirement takes precedence.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose device number and type; FCC and every device operator must document Board-approved device training, and operators must be certified by a Board-approved crematory-operator course.
Separate license
A separate crematory license is required.
Statutory notice
O.C.G.A. 43-18-73(b) requires Board notice within 15 days before the proposed ownership change.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility relicensure after nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Appearance
Board may require the owner and FCC to appear; fines and discipline may apply.
Application
After May 1 nonrenewal is equivalent to revocation: submit a new application and pass the facility inspection.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose device number and type; FCC and every device operator must document Board-approved device training, and operators must be certified by a Board-approved crematory-operator course.
Separate license
A separate crematory license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial facility renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply and pay renewal fee before March 31 of even-numbered years; maintain statutory facility qualifications.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose device number and type; FCC and every device operator must document Board-approved device training, and operators must be certified by a Board-approved crematory-operator course.
Separate license
A separate crematory license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary operation after destruction by natural catastrophe
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Notice
Notify the Board within five days of destruction by fire, flood or other natural catastrophe.
Operator training
Disclose device number and type; FCC and every device operator must document Board-approved device training, and operators must be certified by a Board-approved crematory-operator course.
Practice
All services must be provided by or under supervision of a licensed funeral director; all other Code and Board requirements remain applicable.
Separate license
A separate crematory license is required.
Temporary location
Request a Board-approved 90-day temporary-location grace period while reconstructing the original site; the Board may grant further 90-day periods for good cause.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Embalmer License

Licensure as an embalmer, with provisions for inactive status and reactivation.

Licensing authority: Georgia State Board of Funeral Service

Endorsement — substantially equal licensing requirements
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Board discretion
The Board may grant reciprocity/endorsement and waives taking the national examination for this route.
Comparability
Hold a valid license in a jurisdiction with substantially equal licensing requirements for this profession.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
License elsewhere
Current licensure for the same profession in another jurisdiction; pay the Georgia application fee.
License origin
A reciprocal or endorsement license cannot itself be the basis of the Georgia endorsement license.
Endorsement — Georgia qualifications
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Application
Complete Board form and fee at least 15 days before a meeting; Board majority approval.
Apprenticeship
3,120 Board-approved hours over at least 18 months, in addition to college time; while enrolled in college, no more than four daily hours count. Six-month certified reports and the final report are required.
Board discretion
The Board may grant reciprocity/endorsement and waives taking the national examination for this route.
Character
Good moral character; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters on the Board application.
Embalming experience
Affidavit of assisting with at least 50 bodies, giving names and dates of death.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
General education
High school graduation or GED.
License elsewhere
Current licensure for the same profession in another jurisdiction; pay the Georgia application fee.
License origin
A reciprocal or endorsement license cannot itself be the basis of the Georgia endorsement license.
Minimum age
At least 18 at application.
Professional education
Graduation from an ABFSE-accredited funeral-service college or another college specifically approved by the Board.
Qualifications
Satisfy r. 250-5-.01 in addition to the license held elsewhere.
Endorsement — three years of active dual practice
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Application window
Apply within six months of leaving the jurisdiction of active practice.
Board discretion
The Board may grant reciprocity/endorsement and waives taking the national examination for this route.
Eligibility
Cannot meet the Georgia-qualification or substantially-equal-license alternative.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Experience
Employer documentation of active licensed practice as BOTH embalmer and funeral director for at least three years immediately preceding application.
License elsewhere
Current licensure for the same profession in another jurisdiction; pay the Georgia application fee.
License origin
A reciprocal or endorsement license cannot itself be the basis of the Georgia endorsement license.
Licensure by examination
National Board Exam Sciences
Application
Complete Board form and fee at least 15 days before a meeting; Board majority approval.
Apprenticeship
3,120 Board-approved hours over at least 18 months, in addition to college time; while enrolled in college, no more than four daily hours count. Six-month certified reports and the final report are required.
Character
Good moral character; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters on the Board application.
Embalming experience
Affidavit of assisting with at least 50 bodies, giving names and dates of death.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
General education
High school graduation or GED.
Minimum age
At least 18 at application.
Professional education
Graduation from an ABFSE-accredited funeral-service college or another college specifically approved by the Board.
Score delivery
Direct The Conference to certify the passing Science score to the Board.
Veteran preference
Qualifying veterans may apply for the additional preference points described by the Board.
Placement on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit inactive-status application and fee.
Education
Show the continuing education required at the next renewal has been completed.
License
Current Georgia license in good standing.
Practice
No Georgia practice while the license is inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application, regular renewal fee and penalty fee between April 1 and April 30 immediately following expiration.
Continuing education
Twelve hours each biennium: at least six in person or an interactive instructor-led live webinar; at least one in Funeral Service Ethics and one in Cremation/Alkaline Hydrolysis/Natural Organic Reduction. Retain records three years and attest under oath. Inactive licensees, licensees age 65 or older and persons initially licensed in the second renewal-cycle year have the stated exemptions; hardship, disability or illness waivers require a documented Board request.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Expedited endorsement for military spouses
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Good standing
In good standing and not subject to investigation or disciplinary proceedings in the licensing jurisdiction.
Interim practice
Under O.C.G.A. 43-1-34(d), a spouse who has filed the documented endorsement application may work for a lawful in-state employer that verifies the out-of-state license and filing; this authority ends if endorsement is denied.
Issuance
The Board must issue the endorsement license within 30 days of receiving the application and documentation showing the statutory requirements are met.
License elsewhere
Current out-of-state license with substantially similar training, experience and testing qualifications and scope.
Military relationship
Spouse of a service member or transitioning service member stationed in Georgia; supply military orders.
Ongoing duties
Comply with Georgia scope, standards and continuing education.
Reactivation after four or more years
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Application
Submit reactivation application and fee.
Education
Document 24 hours of continuing education.
Inactive duration
Four or more years since inactive status approval.
Resitting
Take and pass the Georgia Laws and Rules examination despite any earlier passing score.
Reactivation after two but before four years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit reactivation application and fee.
Education
Document 12 hours of continuing education.
Inactive duration
More than two years and less than four years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit reactivation application, fee and documentation of continuing education.
Inactive duration
No more than two years since inactive status approval.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after nonrenewal
National Board Exam Sciences
Application
Complete Board form and fee at least 15 days before a meeting; Board majority approval.
Apprenticeship
3,120 Board-approved hours over at least 18 months, in addition to college time; while enrolled in college, no more than four daily hours count. Six-month certified reports and the final report are required.
Board discretion
Reinstatement application and fee; Board consideration is discretionary under r. 250-5-.10(1).
Character
Good moral character; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters on the Board application.
Embalming experience
Affidavit of assisting with at least 50 bodies, giving names and dates of death.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
General education
High school graduation or GED.
Minimum age
At least 18 at application.
Nonrenewal
License not renewed before May 1; the lapse has the same effect as revocation.
Professional education
Graduation from an ABFSE-accredited funeral-service college or another college specifically approved by the Board.
Score delivery
Direct The Conference to certify the passing Science score to the Board.
Statutory restoration
A new restored license is subject to initial requirements under O.C.G.A. 43-18-49.
Veteran preference
Qualifying veterans may apply for the additional preference points described by the Board.
Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit renewal application and renewal fee by March 31 of an even-numbered year.
Continuing education
Twelve hours each biennium: at least six in person or an interactive instructor-led live webinar; at least one in Funeral Service Ethics and one in Cremation/Alkaline Hydrolysis/Natural Organic Reduction. Retain records three years and attest under oath. Inactive licensees, licensees age 65 or older and persons initially licensed in the second renewal-cycle year have the stated exemptions; hardship, disability or illness waivers require a documented Board request.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after disciplinary revocation
National Board Exam Sciences
Application
Complete Board form and fee at least 15 days before a meeting; Board majority approval.
Apprenticeship
3,120 Board-approved hours over at least 18 months, in addition to college time; while enrolled in college, no more than four daily hours count. Six-month certified reports and the final report are required.
Character
Good moral character; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters on the Board application.
Embalming experience
Affidavit of assisting with at least 50 bodies, giving names and dates of death.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
General education
High school graduation or GED.
Minimum age
At least 18 at application.
Professional education
Graduation from an ABFSE-accredited funeral-service college or another college specifically approved by the Board.
Restoration
After final termination of revocation proceedings, the Board may vote to issue a new license; O.C.G.A. 43-18-49 applies the requirements for previously unlicensed applicants.
Score delivery
Direct The Conference to certify the passing Science score to the Board.
Veteran preference
Qualifying veterans may apply for the additional preference points described by the Board.

Funeral Director License

Applicants for a funeral director license on or after January 1, 1991, must pass a board-approved jurisprudence examination covering state laws regarding funeral directing.

Licensing authority: Georgia State Board of Funeral Service

Endorsement — substantially equal licensing requirements
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Board discretion
The Board may grant reciprocity/endorsement and waives taking the national examination for this route.
Comparability
Hold a valid license in a jurisdiction with substantially equal licensing requirements for this profession.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
License elsewhere
Current licensure for the same profession in another jurisdiction; pay the Georgia application fee.
License origin
A reciprocal or endorsement license cannot itself be the basis of the Georgia endorsement license.
Endorsement — Georgia qualifications
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Application
Complete Board form and fee at least 15 days before a meeting; Board majority approval.
Board discretion
The Board may grant reciprocity/endorsement and waives taking the national examination for this route.
Character
Good moral character; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters on the Board application.
Embalmer license
A valid Georgia embalmer license before issuance.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Funeral experience
Affidavit of at least 50 funerals assisted with as an apprentice, listing names and death dates.
General education
High school graduation or GED.
License elsewhere
Current licensure for the same profession in another jurisdiction; pay the Georgia application fee.
License origin
A reciprocal or endorsement license cannot itself be the basis of the Georgia endorsement license.
Minimum age
At least 18 at application.
Qualifications
Satisfy r. 250-5-.04 in addition to the license held elsewhere.
Endorsement — three years of active dual practice
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Application window
Apply within six months of leaving the jurisdiction of active practice.
Board discretion
The Board may grant reciprocity/endorsement and waives taking the national examination for this route.
Eligibility
Cannot meet the Georgia-qualification or substantially-equal-license alternative.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Experience
Employer documentation of active licensed practice as BOTH embalmer and funeral director for at least three years immediately preceding application.
License elsewhere
Current licensure for the same profession in another jurisdiction; pay the Georgia application fee.
License origin
A reciprocal or endorsement license cannot itself be the basis of the Georgia endorsement license.
Licensure by examination
Application
Complete Board form and fee at least 15 days before a meeting; Board majority approval.
Character
Good moral character; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters on the Board application.
Embalmer license
A valid Georgia embalmer license before issuance.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Funeral experience
Affidavit of at least 50 funerals assisted with as an apprentice, listing names and death dates.
General education
High school graduation or GED.
Minimum age
At least 18 at application.
Prior scores
Currently offered registered national examinations remain leaves when passing scores were obtained before this application.
Score delivery
Direct The Conference to certify passing Science and Arts scores to the Board.
Placement on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit inactive-status application and fee.
Education
Show the continuing education required at the next renewal has been completed.
License
Current Georgia license in good standing.
Practice
No Georgia practice while the license is inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application, regular renewal fee and penalty fee between April 1 and April 30 immediately following expiration.
Continuing education
Twelve hours each biennium: at least six in person or an interactive instructor-led live webinar; at least one in Funeral Service Ethics and one in Cremation/Alkaline Hydrolysis/Natural Organic Reduction. Retain records three years and attest under oath. Inactive licensees, licensees age 65 or older and persons initially licensed in the second renewal-cycle year have the stated exemptions; hardship, disability or illness waivers require a documented Board request.
Embalmer renewal
Renew the embalmer license before renewing a held funeral-director license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Expedited endorsement for military spouses
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Good standing
In good standing and not subject to investigation or disciplinary proceedings in the licensing jurisdiction.
Interim practice
Under O.C.G.A. 43-1-34(d), a spouse who has filed the documented endorsement application may work for a lawful in-state employer that verifies the out-of-state license and filing; this authority ends if endorsement is denied.
Issuance
The Board must issue the endorsement license within 30 days of receiving the application and documentation showing the statutory requirements are met.
License elsewhere
Current out-of-state license with substantially similar training, experience and testing qualifications and scope.
Military relationship
Spouse of a service member or transitioning service member stationed in Georgia; supply military orders.
Ongoing duties
Comply with Georgia scope, standards and continuing education.
Reactivation after four or more years
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Application
Submit reactivation application and fee.
Education
Document 24 hours of continuing education.
Inactive duration
Four or more years since inactive status approval.
Resitting
Take and pass the Georgia Laws and Rules examination despite any earlier passing score.
Reactivation after two but before four years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit reactivation application and fee.
Education
Document 12 hours of continuing education.
Inactive duration
More than two years and less than four years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit reactivation application, fee and documentation of continuing education.
Inactive duration
No more than two years since inactive status approval.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Discretionary reinstatement outside the statutory ten year entitlement
Application
Complete Board form and fee at least 15 days before a meeting; Board majority approval.
Board discretion
Reinstatement application and fees; Board may restore the license subject to initial requirements under 43-18-49.
Character
Good moral character; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters on the Board application.
Education
R. 250-5-.10(2) requires 12 approved continuing-education hours for an applicant under 65.
Embalmer license
A valid Georgia embalmer license before issuance.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Funeral experience
Affidavit of at least 50 funerals assisted with as an apprentice, listing names and death dates.
General education
High school graduation or GED.
Lapse
More than ten years, or a disciplinary history prevents the mandatory reinstatement entitlement under 43-18-43.1.
Minimum age
At least 18 at application.
Prior scores
Currently offered registered national examinations remain leaves when passing scores were obtained before this application.
Score delivery
Direct The Conference to certify passing Science and Arts scores to the Board.
State resitting
R. 250-5-.10(2) requires retaking the state jurisprudence examination after more than two years.
Statutory reinstatement within ten years — prior endorsement
GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam
Board rule
R. 250-5-.10(2) additionally states that applicants seeking reinstatement more than two years after expiration must retake and pass the Georgia jurisprudence examination.
Education
Complete the Board-required continuing education; applicable statutory waivers remain available.
Fees
Pay all missed renewal fees plus a reinstatement fee no greater than the biennial renewal fee.
Lapse
Not more than ten years; the licensee has not been subject to Board disciplinary action.
Prior exam
The licensee already passed the examinations required for the original Georgia licensure route. Prior scores of currently offered registered examinations remain leaves under this survey contract; this condition does not demand a new national-exam sitting.
Prior licensure route
Original license by endorsement.
Statutory reinstatement within ten years — prior examination
Board rule
R. 250-5-.10(2) additionally states that applicants seeking reinstatement more than two years after expiration must retake and pass the Georgia jurisprudence examination.
Education
Complete the Board-required continuing education; applicable statutory waivers remain available.
Fees
Pay all missed renewal fees plus a reinstatement fee no greater than the biennial renewal fee.
Lapse
Not more than ten years; the licensee has not been subject to Board disciplinary action.
Prior exam
The licensee already passed the examinations required for the original Georgia licensure route. Prior scores of currently offered registered examinations remain leaves under this survey contract; this condition does not demand a new national-exam sitting.
Prior licensure route
Original license by examination.
Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit renewal application and renewal fee by March 31 of an even-numbered year.
Continuing education
Twelve hours each biennium: at least six in person or an interactive instructor-led live webinar; at least one in Funeral Service Ethics and one in Cremation/Alkaline Hydrolysis/Natural Organic Reduction. Retain records three years and attest under oath. Inactive licensees, licensees age 65 or older and persons initially licensed in the second renewal-cycle year have the stated exemptions; hardship, disability or illness waivers require a documented Board request.
Embalmer renewal
Renew the embalmer license before renewing a held funeral-director license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after disciplinary revocation
Application
Complete Board form and fee at least 15 days before a meeting; Board majority approval.
Character
Good moral character; disclose felony, misdemeanor and First Offender Act matters on the Board application.
Embalmer license
A valid Georgia embalmer license before issuance.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Funeral experience
Affidavit of at least 50 funerals assisted with as an apprentice, listing names and death dates.
General education
High school graduation or GED.
Minimum age
At least 18 at application.
Prior scores
Currently offered registered national examinations remain leaves when passing scores were obtained before this application.
Restoration
After final termination of revocation proceedings, the Board may vote to issue a new license; O.C.G.A. 43-18-49 applies the requirements for previously unlicensed applicants.
Score delivery
Direct The Conference to certify passing Science and Arts scores to the Board.

Funeral Establishment License

License for a funeral establishment under a specified name, at a specified location, and under a specified funeral director in full and continuous charge.

Licensing authority: Georgia State Board of Funeral Service

Continuation of facility license after holder death
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Facility
Maintain applicable facility and FCC requirements.
Successor
License passes to the deceased holder’s legal representative, or if none, the widow, for the unexpired term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Amendment after change of Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Appearance
New FCC and owners or authorized corporate representatives must appear for the Board determination, with the specified owner/FCC waiver.
Fcc eligibility
Normally at least three years of licensed funeral-director employment, except an owner of the relevant establishment; applicable criminal-probation restrictions and disciplinary-history appearance requirements apply.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Notice
Report FCC changes in writing within five days.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial facility licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Complete Board-approved application and proper fee at least 15 days before a meeting; approval by majority vote.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
Inspection
Board inspection after a deficiency-free administrative review and before the Board meeting; comply with the applicable equipment, facility, sanitary and inspection standards. Reinspection requires the stated fee.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late facility renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application, renewal fee and late-renewal fee between April 1 and April 30 following expiration.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility license after address or location change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application and fee; a new license number is issued on Board approval. The existing license cannot transfer to another location.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility license after name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application and appropriate fee; new license number is issued on Board approval.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility licensure following ownership change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application and fee.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
Implementation notice
R. 250-6-.02(3) states submission within 15 days of the change and requires notarized seller and purchaser signatures. The statutory advance-notice requirement takes precedence.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Statutory notice
O.C.G.A. 43-18-73(b) requires Board notice within 15 days before the proposed ownership change.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility relicensure after nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Appearance
Board may require the owner and FCC to appear; fines and discipline may apply.
Application
After May 1 nonrenewal is equivalent to revocation: submit a new application and pass the facility inspection.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial facility renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply and pay renewal fee before March 31 of even-numbered years; maintain statutory facility qualifications.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary operation after destruction by natural catastrophe
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Notice
Notify the Board within five days of destruction by fire, flood or other natural catastrophe.
Practice
All services must be provided by or under supervision of a licensed funeral director; all other Code and Board requirements remain applicable.
Temporary location
Request a Board-approved 90-day temporary-location grace period while reconstructing the original site; the Board may grant further 90-day periods for good cause.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Organic Human Reduction Facility License

License to operate an organic human reduction facility under a specified name, location, and funeral director in full and continuous charge.

Licensing authority: Georgia State Board of Funeral Service

Continuation of facility license after holder death
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Facility
Maintain applicable facility and FCC requirements.
Successor
License passes to the deceased holder’s legal representative, or if none, the widow, for the unexpired term.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Amendment after change of Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Appearance
New FCC and owners or authorized corporate representatives must appear for the Board determination, with the specified owner/FCC waiver.
Containers
Containers must promote aerobic reduction and minimize odors and vectors.
Facility requirements
O.C.G.A. 43-18-72.1 specifies rooms, containers, hearse, processing station and church truck; services only to other funeral establishments are exempt from the seating-room, display-room and church-truck requirements. Applicable stand-alone facilities must meet the 1,000-foot residential-subdivision separation requirement.
Fcc eligibility
Normally at least three years of licensed funeral-director employment, except an owner of the relevant establishment; applicable criminal-probation restrictions and disciplinary-history appearance requirements apply.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Notice
Report FCC changes in writing within five days.
Operator training
Disclose container number and type; FCC and all operating employees must document Board-approved organic-human-reduction training.
Separate license
A separate organic human reduction facility license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial facility licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Complete Board-approved application and proper fee at least 15 days before a meeting; approval by majority vote.
Containers
Containers must promote aerobic reduction and minimize odors and vectors.
Expedited processing
Military spouses and transitioning service members may request expedited processing under r. 250-5-.13 by documenting status, paying the fee and meeting this license’s requirements. Transitioning means within 24 months of retirement or 12 months of separation.
Facility requirements
O.C.G.A. 43-18-72.1 specifies rooms, containers, hearse, processing station and church truck; services only to other funeral establishments are exempt from the seating-room, display-room and church-truck requirements. Applicable stand-alone facilities must meet the 1,000-foot residential-subdivision separation requirement.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
Inspection
Board inspection after a deficiency-free administrative review and before the Board meeting; comply with the applicable equipment, facility, sanitary and inspection standards. Reinspection requires the stated fee.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose container number and type; FCC and all operating employees must document Board-approved organic-human-reduction training.
Separate license
A separate organic human reduction facility license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late facility renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application, renewal fee and late-renewal fee between April 1 and April 30 following expiration.
Containers
Containers must promote aerobic reduction and minimize odors and vectors.
Facility requirements
O.C.G.A. 43-18-72.1 specifies rooms, containers, hearse, processing station and church truck; services only to other funeral establishments are exempt from the seating-room, display-room and church-truck requirements. Applicable stand-alone facilities must meet the 1,000-foot residential-subdivision separation requirement.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose container number and type; FCC and all operating employees must document Board-approved organic-human-reduction training.
Separate license
A separate organic human reduction facility license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility license after address or location change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application and fee; a new license number is issued on Board approval. The existing license cannot transfer to another location.
Containers
Containers must promote aerobic reduction and minimize odors and vectors.
Facility requirements
O.C.G.A. 43-18-72.1 specifies rooms, containers, hearse, processing station and church truck; services only to other funeral establishments are exempt from the seating-room, display-room and church-truck requirements. Applicable stand-alone facilities must meet the 1,000-foot residential-subdivision separation requirement.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose container number and type; FCC and all operating employees must document Board-approved organic-human-reduction training.
Separate license
A separate organic human reduction facility license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility license after name change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application and appropriate fee; new license number is issued on Board approval.
Containers
Containers must promote aerobic reduction and minimize odors and vectors.
Facility requirements
O.C.G.A. 43-18-72.1 specifies rooms, containers, hearse, processing station and church truck; services only to other funeral establishments are exempt from the seating-room, display-room and church-truck requirements. Applicable stand-alone facilities must meet the 1,000-foot residential-subdivision separation requirement.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose container number and type; FCC and all operating employees must document Board-approved organic-human-reduction training.
Separate license
A separate organic human reduction facility license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility licensure following ownership change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit application and fee.
Containers
Containers must promote aerobic reduction and minimize odors and vectors.
Facility requirements
O.C.G.A. 43-18-72.1 specifies rooms, containers, hearse, processing station and church truck; services only to other funeral establishments are exempt from the seating-room, display-room and church-truck requirements. Applicable stand-alone facilities must meet the 1,000-foot residential-subdivision separation requirement.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
Implementation notice
R. 250-6-.02(3) states submission within 15 days of the change and requires notarized seller and purchaser signatures. The statutory advance-notice requirement takes precedence.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose container number and type; FCC and all operating employees must document Board-approved organic-human-reduction training.
Separate license
A separate organic human reduction facility license is required.
Statutory notice
O.C.G.A. 43-18-73(b) requires Board notice within 15 days before the proposed ownership change.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility relicensure after nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Appearance
Board may require the owner and FCC to appear; fines and discipline may apply.
Application
After May 1 nonrenewal is equivalent to revocation: submit a new application and pass the facility inspection.
Containers
Containers must promote aerobic reduction and minimize odors and vectors.
Facility requirements
O.C.G.A. 43-18-72.1 specifies rooms, containers, hearse, processing station and church truck; services only to other funeral establishments are exempt from the seating-room, display-room and church-truck requirements. Applicable stand-alone facilities must meet the 1,000-foot residential-subdivision separation requirement.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose container number and type; FCC and all operating employees must document Board-approved organic-human-reduction training.
Separate license
A separate organic human reduction facility license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial facility renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply and pay renewal fee before March 31 of even-numbered years; maintain statutory facility qualifications.
Containers
Containers must promote aerobic reduction and minimize odors and vectors.
Facility requirements
O.C.G.A. 43-18-72.1 specifies rooms, containers, hearse, processing station and church truck; services only to other funeral establishments are exempt from the seating-room, display-room and church-truck requirements. Applicable stand-alone facilities must meet the 1,000-foot residential-subdivision separation requirement.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Operator training
Disclose container number and type; FCC and all operating employees must document Board-approved organic-human-reduction training.
Separate license
A separate organic human reduction facility license is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary operation after destruction by natural catastrophe
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Containers
Containers must promote aerobic reduction and minimize odors and vectors.
Facility requirements
O.C.G.A. 43-18-72.1 specifies rooms, containers, hearse, processing station and church truck; services only to other funeral establishments are exempt from the seating-room, display-room and church-truck requirements. Applicable stand-alone facilities must meet the 1,000-foot residential-subdivision separation requirement.
Funeral director
Employ a Georgia-licensed Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge meeting 43-18-71 and r. 250-6-.08; the FCC must be a Georgia resident.
License identity
License attaches to the specified name, location and Funeral Director in Full and Continuous Charge.
Notice
Notify the Board within five days of destruction by fire, flood or other natural catastrophe.
Operator training
Disclose container number and type; FCC and all operating employees must document Board-approved organic-human-reduction training.
Practice
All services must be provided by or under supervision of a licensed funeral director; all other Code and Board requirements remain applicable.
Separate license
A separate organic human reduction facility license is required.
Temporary location
Request a Board-approved 90-day temporary-location grace period while reconstructing the original site; the Board may grant further 90-day periods for good cause.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

GA Funeral Services and Apprentice Laws and Rules Exam

Examination outline
  • Funeral Services Board Laws and Rules (15-20 questions)
    • Law
    • Board composition and powers
    • Funeral Director in full and continuous charge
    • Pre-need
    • Handling of funds
    • Reports to Insurance Commissioner
    • Revocability
    • Replacement of merchandise
    • Keeping of records
    • Owner of contract
    • Taxes on pre-need trusts
    • Rules
    • Apprenticeship
    • Registration
    • Service
    • Embalmer licensure
    • Establishment licensure and regulations
    • Crematory licensure and regulations
    • Disciplinary procedures
  • Vital Records (7-10 questions)
    • Filing death certificates
    • Ordinary filing
    • Fetal death
    • Infant less than one year old
    • Coroner cases
    • Amending death certificates
    • Funeral director’s records
    • Keeping records
    • Disclosing records
    • Obtaining copies of records
    • Permits for disinterment/reinterment
    • Permits for transporting remains
    • Transporting across state lines
    • Transporting to offsite crematorium
  • Dead Bodies (7-10 questions)
    • Pronouncement of death
    • Coroner cases
    • Hospice cases
    • Military cases
    • Unclaimed bodies
    • Liability for personal effects
    • Permission to embalm
    • Trafficking in bodies illegal
    • HIV tests
    • Communicable Diseases
    • Cremation
    • Next of kin’s rights to disposition of human remains
  • Insurance (4-5questions)
    • Assignment of benefits
    • Insurable interest
    • Funeral homes prohibited
    • Legality of insurance contracts with funeral directors
  • Related Laws and Rules (7-10 questions)
    • Funeral processions
    • Cemeteries may have requirements
    • Private plots
    • Social Security burial benefits
    • Veteran’s Administration burial benefits
    • Claiming burial funds from depositories
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

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