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Missouri Funeral Service — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Embalmer License

License to practice embalming; current initial licensure uses NBE-Sciences and Missouri Law, with a six-month apprenticeship.

Licensing authority: Missouri State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors · Application information

New embalmer license after the prior license became void

All of the following:

Application
Board application and applicable fees; background checks as required.
Apprenticeship
New six-month apprenticeship of 780 hours averaging 30 hours weekly, with at least 12 bodies under direct supervision; no previous apprenticeship or application counted.
Fees
New application and current apprenticeship/application fees.
Lower ranked oral statement
The undated Board-linked Examination Process sheet, item 10, states: 10. The Board will continue to conduct oral embalmer examinations at board meetings and the board office, upon eligibility and scheduling availability. Current RSMo 333.041.2 and 20 CSR 2120-2.010 enumerate the current examinations without this oral assessment. The linked sheet also names the discontinued Missouri Arts exam; it is not treated as a current controlling exam requirement.
Military training
Military education, training or service may satisfy appropriate educational or training requirements after Board review under 20 CSR 2120-2.200.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.010(10) exempts an applicant who passed Missouri Law for another license within this Board; retain the current exam leaf.
Prior scores
Successful NBE-Sciences and Missouri Law results are accepted under 20 CSR 2120-2.010(20); because both exams are current, prior passage does not remove the leaves.
Professional education
Graduate from a Board-approved ABFSE-accredited funeral-service education program and submit official transcripts.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Placement of an existing license on disabled status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Certificate
The form says a disabled certificate is issued if regulatory requirements are met; this is a status change of the existing license.
Existing license
Existing Missouri embalmer license; signed notarized Board disability affidavit.
Practice
Licensee certifies that the profession will not be practiced while disabled.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Placement on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
License status
Hold a current unexpired license or registration, apply for inactive status and refrain from practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Renewal while inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
License status
Renew inactive status using the completed form and fee before expiration; no practice while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Initial license by education and apprenticeship

All of the following:

Application
Board application and applicable fees; background checks as required.
Application period
Complete licensing within five years after graduation; otherwise file a new application and pay new fees.
Apprenticeship
At least six months, 780 hours averaging 30 hours weekly, and 25 personally performed embalmings under a Missouri-licensed embalmer. The first 12 require direct supervision. The supervisor inspects all bodies.
Completion evidence
Affidavit of Practical Work signed by apprentice and supervisor, final application and fee; Board may review records when supervisor cannot attest.
Direct supervision
The licensed embalmer is physically present with the apprentice and body at the beginning and available within one hour for the remainder.
Lower ranked oral statement
The undated Board-linked Examination Process sheet, item 10, states: 10. The Board will continue to conduct oral embalmer examinations at board meetings and the board office, upon eligibility and scheduling availability. Current RSMo 333.041.2 and 20 CSR 2120-2.010 enumerate the current examinations without this oral assessment. The linked sheet also names the discontinued Missouri Arts exam; it is not treated as a current controlling exam requirement.
Military training
Military education, training or service may satisfy appropriate educational or training requirements after Board review under 20 CSR 2120-2.200.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.010(10) exempts an applicant who passed Missouri Law for another license within this Board; retain the current exam leaf.
Professional education
Graduate from a Board-approved ABFSE-accredited funeral-service education program and submit official transcripts.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Transition
Existing twelve-month apprentices may request a six-month transition in writing; completed time and cases count.
Reapplication after revocation: Initial license by education and apprenticeship

All of the following:

Application
Board application and applicable fees; background checks as required.
Application period
Complete licensing within five years after graduation; otherwise file a new application and pay new fees.
Apprenticeship
At least six months, 780 hours averaging 30 hours weekly, and 25 personally performed embalmings under a Missouri-licensed embalmer. The first 12 require direct supervision. The supervisor inspects all bodies.
Completion evidence
Affidavit of Practical Work signed by apprentice and supervisor, final application and fee; Board may review records when supervisor cannot attest.
Direct supervision
The licensed embalmer is physically present with the apprentice and body at the beginning and available within one hour for the remainder.
Lower ranked oral statement
The undated Board-linked Examination Process sheet, item 10, states: 10. The Board will continue to conduct oral embalmer examinations at board meetings and the board office, upon eligibility and scheduling availability. Current RSMo 333.041.2 and 20 CSR 2120-2.010 enumerate the current examinations without this oral assessment. The linked sheet also names the discontinued Missouri Arts exam; it is not treated as a current controlling exam requirement.
Military training
Military education, training or service may satisfy appropriate educational or training requirements after Board review under 20 CSR 2120-2.200.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.010(10) exempts an applicant who passed Missouri Law for another license within this Board; retain the current exam leaf.
Professional education
Graduate from a Board-approved ABFSE-accredited funeral-service education program and submit official transcripts.
Revocation
Wait three years after revocation; Board discretion and all first-time licensing or registration requirements apply under RSMo 333.330.5.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Transition
Existing twelve-month apprentices may request a six-month transition in writing; completed time and cases count.
Active duty military renewal or reinstatement protection
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Existing disciplinary obligations are stayed and resume under the rule; military status does not erase them.
License held
Current active Board license at activation.
Notice
Signed dated notice with license and activation information and evidence of active-duty service; comply with the applicable 180-day or special 60-day filing provision.
Renewal
Qualifying renewals and reinstatements are without additional renewal acts and fees as the rule specifies, and reinstatement is retroactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Return from inactive to active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
License status
Complete the renewal form and pay the renewal fee under 20 CSR 2120-2.021(4).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Licensure by reciprocity with substantially equivalent qualifications

All of the following:

Endorsement
Certificate of state endorsement with grades, disciplinary and pending-complaint information and recommendation; official supporting materials and fees.
License held
Valid, unrevoked and unexpired same-profession license; reciprocity grants only a like license.
Lower ranked oral statement
The undated Board-linked Examination Process sheet, item 10, states: 10. The Board will continue to conduct oral embalmer examinations at board meetings and the board office, upon eligibility and scheduling availability. Current RSMo 333.041.2 and 20 CSR 2120-2.010 enumerate the current examinations without this oral assessment. The linked sheet also names the discontinued Missouri Arts exam; it is not treated as a current controlling exam requirement.
Prior missouri law
An applicant already issued a Missouri embalmer or funeral-director license for which Missouri Law was required is excused from sitting the exam for the second license.
Qualifications
Educational and professional qualifications and originating licensing requirements must be substantially equivalent to Missouri requirements at original licensure.
Timing
Board rule requires complete reciprocity materials at least 30 days before the planned Missouri Law test. Current application instructions require completing the licensing process within 24 months.
Licensure by reciprocity from a jurisdiction with lesser requirements

All of the following:

Active experience
Five consecutive years of active experience as a licensed embalmer under RSMo 333.051.
Board review
The Board determines sufficiency, may reject on lawful grounds, and requires proof of proficiency; any unidentified additional testing is an applicant condition.
Endorsement
Certificate of state endorsement with grades, disciplinary and pending-complaint information and recommendation; official supporting materials and fees.
License held
Valid, unrevoked and unexpired same-profession license; reciprocity grants only a like license.
Lower ranked oral statement
The undated Board-linked Examination Process sheet, item 10, states: 10. The Board will continue to conduct oral embalmer examinations at board meetings and the board office, upon eligibility and scheduling availability. Current RSMo 333.041.2 and 20 CSR 2120-2.010 enumerate the current examinations without this oral assessment. The linked sheet also names the discontinued Missouri Arts exam; it is not treated as a current controlling exam requirement.
Prior missouri law
An applicant already issued a Missouri embalmer or funeral-director license for which Missouri Law was required is excused from sitting the exam for the second license.
Timing
Board rule requires complete reciprocity materials at least 30 days before the planned Missouri Law test. Current application instructions require completing the licensing process within 24 months.
Licensure recognition under RSMo 324.009
Missouri Law Examination (practice unavailable)
Compact
A license held solely through an interstate compact is ineligible; recognition grants a Missouri-only license.
Eligibility
Good standing, valid license on receipt, no unresolved investigation, complaint or discipline, and no disqualifying criminal record; statutory denial and resolved-discipline provisions apply.
Endorsement and application
Board endorsement, application, fees and background check; same-profession license only.
Examinations waived
RSMo 324.009.3(1) waives educational, experience and non-law examination requirements; Board rule 20 CSR 2120-2.040(3)(B) exercises the statutory permission to require Missouri Law.
License held
Current same-occupation, same-practice-level license held for at least one year; proof of licensure and originating minimum education, experience and clinical supervision where applicable.
Prior missouri law
Prior qualifying Missouri Law completion excuses a retake under the Board rule.
Expedited recognition for a military or law enforcement spouse under RSMo 324.009.3(2)
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board stated law demand
20 CSR 2120-2.040(3) also states: (3) Applicants eligible to apply for a reciprocal license as an embalmer or funeral director pursuant to section 324.009, RSMo, shall provide— (A) A certificate of state endorsement from the examining board of the state or territory in which the applicant holds his/her license showing the grade rating upon which his/her license was granted, a statement whether the reciprocity applicant has ever been subject to discipline or if there are any complaints pending against the reciprocity applicant, and a recommendation for licensure in Missouri; (B) The reciprocity applicant will be required to successfully complete the Missouri Law examination. If an applicant by reciprocity has received either an embalmer or funeral director license from the board for which the Missouri Law examination was required, that applicant will be exempt from taking the Missouri Law examination; (C) A completed application for licensure for reciprocity provided by the board; and (D) Payment of applicable fees including the fee charged by the Missouri State Highway Patrol for a criminal history background check, as required by the board. The higher-ranked spouse-specific statute controls this route; the Board-stated Missouri Law demand is preserved here for the applicant.
Compact
Compact-derived licenses are ineligible and recognition is valid only in Missouri.
Exam waiver
RSMo 324.009.3(2) directs waiver of any examination, educational or experience requirement and contains no state-law-exam exception.
Fees and background
Applicable fees and permitted fingerprint/background requirements remain; other statutory eligibility and denial provisions remain.
License held
Valid current same-profession, same-practice-level license held for at least one year; satisfy RSMo 324.009 eligibility conditions.
Spouse eligibility
Qualifying resident or nonresident military or law-enforcement spouse as defined in RSMo 324.009.1; statutory 30-day recognition applies.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-08-28.

Reinstatement within two years after renewal lapse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Proper renewal forms and applicable delinquent/renewal fees; licenses remaining unrenewed for two years become void.
Time limit
Within two years of the renewal date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Biennial license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Renewal
Completed renewal materials and applicable fees; nonreceipt of notice does not excuse renewal. Funeral directors report preneed seller affiliations if acting as agents.
Renewal date
June 1 biennially for individual licenses; January 1 biennially for establishments.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Retirement status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affidavit
File Board retirement affidavit; no active practice or holding out. Retain only the wall certificate and surrender other indicia of licensure.
Age
Over 65 and retired from practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Return to practice after retirement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Return
Renew registration with the Board under RSMo 333.081.1; complete required renewal and applicable fee before practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Embalmer Apprentice Registration

Supervised apprentice registration leading to an embalmer license; NBE-Sciences passing evidence is submitted and Missouri Law is completed before apprenticeship completion.

Licensing authority: Missouri State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors · Application information

Embalmer apprenticeship registration and supervised completion

All of the following:

Education
Official transcripts documenting graduation from the accredited program.
Law timing
Eligible for Missouri Law upon apprentice registration; complete it before the apprenticeship ends, unless prior Board passage excuses a retake.
Nbe evidence
Submit official passing NBE-Sciences evidence; a currently offered examination remains a leaf even when passed before applying.
Practice limit
Registration authorizes only registered locations and supervised apprenticeship practice.
Registration
Application, fees, criminal background check and approved Missouri-licensed embalmer supervisors and establishments.
Training
At least six months, 780 hours and 25 bodies, with direct supervision of the first 12 and required supervisor attestation.

Funeral Director License

License to practice funeral directing; education, apprenticeship, reciprocity and subsequent license-status routes are distinguished.

Licensing authority: Missouri State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors · Application information

Initial license through the 24 month apprenticeship pathway

All of the following:

Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Apprenticeship
Within 24 months, complete 12 months and at least 780 hours, averaging 15 hours weekly, and arrange and conduct 10 funeral services in a Function C establishment under a Missouri-licensed funeral director.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Completion evidence
Affidavit of Practical Work and Attestation for Licensure; Board may review records when a supervisor cannot or will not attest.
Discontinued exam prior evidence
RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) and (b)a(ii) allow the Board to accept a passing Missouri Arts score from an administration before the exam ended on January 1, 2023. This discontinued examination is prior evidence, not a leaf.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Provisional license
Obtain the provisional license/apprentice registration before supervised practice.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Supervision
Supervisor physically present at arrangement conferences and first five funerals; otherwise available within one hour under RSMo 333.042.6(1).
Reapplication after revocation: Initial license through the 24 month apprenticeship pathway

All of the following:

Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Apprenticeship
Within 24 months, complete 12 months and at least 780 hours, averaging 15 hours weekly, and arrange and conduct 10 funeral services in a Function C establishment under a Missouri-licensed funeral director.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Completion evidence
Affidavit of Practical Work and Attestation for Licensure; Board may review records when a supervisor cannot or will not attest.
Discontinued exam prior evidence
RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) and (b)a(ii) allow the Board to accept a passing Missouri Arts score from an administration before the exam ended on January 1, 2023. This discontinued examination is prior evidence, not a leaf.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Provisional license
Obtain the provisional license/apprentice registration before supervised practice.
Revocation
Wait three years after revocation; Board discretion and all first-time licensing or registration requirements apply under RSMo 333.330.5.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Supervision
Supervisor physically present at arrangement conferences and first five funerals; otherwise available within one hour under RSMo 333.042.6(1).
New license after void status: Initial license through the 24 month apprenticeship pathway

All of the following:

Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Apprenticeship
Within 24 months, complete 12 months and at least 780 hours, averaging 15 hours weekly, and arrange and conduct 10 funeral services in a Function C establishment under a Missouri-licensed funeral director.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Completion evidence
Affidavit of Practical Work and Attestation for Licensure; Board may review records when a supervisor cannot or will not attest.
Discontinued exam prior evidence
RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) and (b)a(ii) allow the Board to accept a passing Missouri Arts score from an administration before the exam ended on January 1, 2023. This discontinued examination is prior evidence, not a leaf.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Provisional license
Obtain the provisional license/apprentice registration before supervised practice.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Supervision
Supervisor physically present at arrangement conferences and first five funerals; otherwise available within one hour under RSMo 333.042.6(1).
Void license
New application and fees; no old apprenticeship or application counts. Successful NBE-Arts passage and Missouri Law completed for another Board license are accepted as the rule states.
Initial license through the 36 month apprenticeship pathway
Missouri Law Examination (practice unavailable)
Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Apprenticeship
Within 36 months, complete 18 months and at least 1170 hours, averaging 15 hours weekly, and arrange and conduct 25 funeral services in a Function C establishment under a Missouri-licensed funeral director.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Completion evidence
Affidavit of Practical Work and Attestation for Licensure.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Provisional license
Obtain the provisional license/apprentice registration before supervised practice.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Supervision
Supervisor physically present at arrangement conferences and first five funerals; otherwise available within one hour under RSMo 333.042.6(1).
Transition
Existing 24-month-pathway apprentices may request the 36-month pathway in writing; prior time and cases count under 20 CSR 2120-2.060(6).
Reapplication after revocation: Initial license through the 36 month apprenticeship pathway
Missouri Law Examination (practice unavailable)
Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Apprenticeship
Within 36 months, complete 18 months and at least 1170 hours, averaging 15 hours weekly, and arrange and conduct 25 funeral services in a Function C establishment under a Missouri-licensed funeral director.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Completion evidence
Affidavit of Practical Work and Attestation for Licensure.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Provisional license
Obtain the provisional license/apprentice registration before supervised practice.
Revocation
Wait three years after revocation; Board discretion and all first-time licensing or registration requirements apply under RSMo 333.330.5.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Supervision
Supervisor physically present at arrangement conferences and first five funerals; otherwise available within one hour under RSMo 333.042.6(1).
Transition
Existing 24-month-pathway apprentices may request the 36-month pathway in writing; prior time and cases count under 20 CSR 2120-2.060(6).
New license after void status: Initial license through the 36 month apprenticeship pathway
Missouri Law Examination (practice unavailable)
Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Apprenticeship
Within 36 months, complete 18 months and at least 1170 hours, averaging 15 hours weekly, and arrange and conduct 25 funeral services in a Function C establishment under a Missouri-licensed funeral director.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Completion evidence
Affidavit of Practical Work and Attestation for Licensure.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Provisional license
Obtain the provisional license/apprentice registration before supervised practice.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Supervision
Supervisor physically present at arrangement conferences and first five funerals; otherwise available within one hour under RSMo 333.042.6(1).
Transition
Existing 24-month-pathway apprentices may request the 36-month pathway in writing; prior time and cases count under 20 CSR 2120-2.060(6).
Void license
New application and fees; no old apprenticeship or application counts. Successful NBE-Arts passage and Missouri Law completed for another Board license are accepted as the rule states.
Initial license by funeral service education

All of the following:

Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Discontinued exam prior evidence
RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) and (b)a(ii) allow the Board to accept a passing Missouri Arts score from an administration before the exam ended on January 1, 2023. This discontinued examination is prior evidence, not a leaf.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Professional education
Complete a Board-approved ABFSE-accredited funeral-service education program and provide official transcripts.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Reapplication after revocation: Initial license by funeral service education

All of the following:

Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Discontinued exam prior evidence
RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) and (b)a(ii) allow the Board to accept a passing Missouri Arts score from an administration before the exam ended on January 1, 2023. This discontinued examination is prior evidence, not a leaf.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Professional education
Complete a Board-approved ABFSE-accredited funeral-service education program and provide official transcripts.
Revocation
Wait three years after revocation; Board discretion and all first-time licensing or registration requirements apply under RSMo 333.330.5.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
New license after void status: Initial license by funeral service education

All of the following:

Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Discontinued exam prior evidence
RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) and (b)a(ii) allow the Board to accept a passing Missouri Arts score from an administration before the exam ended on January 1, 2023. This discontinued examination is prior evidence, not a leaf.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Professional education
Complete a Board-approved ABFSE-accredited funeral-service education program and provide official transcripts.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Void license
New application and fees; no old apprenticeship or application counts. Successful NBE-Arts passage and Missouri Law completed for another Board license are accepted as the rule states.
Initial funeral director license for a Missouri licensed embalmer

All of the following:

Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Board alternative
20 CSR 2120-2.060(2)(A) states: (2) Education Applicants. (A) Provide official transcripts and documentation demonstrating the applicant is a graduate of an institute of mortuary science accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education or any successor organization, or other organization approved by the board, and successful completion of the National Board Examination–Arts and the Missouri Law examination or proof of being a licensed Missouri embalmer. (B) Applicants shall also submit documents listed in section (4). The statutory examination requirements in RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) are retained; proof of the embalmer license is the Board-stated alternative condition.
Discontinued exam prior evidence
RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) and (b)a(ii) allow the Board to accept a passing Missouri Arts score from an administration before the exam ended on January 1, 2023. This discontinued examination is prior evidence, not a leaf.
License held
Current Missouri embalmer license.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Reapplication after revocation: Initial funeral director license for a Missouri licensed embalmer

All of the following:

Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Board alternative
20 CSR 2120-2.060(2)(A) states: (2) Education Applicants. (A) Provide official transcripts and documentation demonstrating the applicant is a graduate of an institute of mortuary science accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education or any successor organization, or other organization approved by the board, and successful completion of the National Board Examination–Arts and the Missouri Law examination or proof of being a licensed Missouri embalmer. (B) Applicants shall also submit documents listed in section (4). The statutory examination requirements in RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) are retained; proof of the embalmer license is the Board-stated alternative condition.
Discontinued exam prior evidence
RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) and (b)a(ii) allow the Board to accept a passing Missouri Arts score from an administration before the exam ended on January 1, 2023. This discontinued examination is prior evidence, not a leaf.
License held
Current Missouri embalmer license.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Revocation
Wait three years after revocation; Board discretion and all first-time licensing or registration requirements apply under RSMo 333.330.5.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
New license after void status: Initial funeral director license for a Missouri licensed embalmer

All of the following:

Application
Completed Board application and fees; truthful sworn representations and requested supporting information.
Background check
Missouri State Highway Patrol background check; apprentice applicants submit checks at registration and final licensure.
Board alternative
20 CSR 2120-2.060(2)(A) states: (2) Education Applicants. (A) Provide official transcripts and documentation demonstrating the applicant is a graduate of an institute of mortuary science accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education or any successor organization, or other organization approved by the board, and successful completion of the National Board Examination–Arts and the Missouri Law examination or proof of being a licensed Missouri embalmer. (B) Applicants shall also submit documents listed in section (4). The statutory examination requirements in RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) are retained; proof of the embalmer license is the Board-stated alternative condition.
Discontinued exam prior evidence
RSMo 333.042.1(3)(a) and (b)a(ii) allow the Board to accept a passing Missouri Arts score from an administration before the exam ended on January 1, 2023. This discontinued examination is prior evidence, not a leaf.
License held
Current Missouri embalmer license.
Military training
20 CSR 2120-2.200 permits military education, training or service evidence toward educational or training requirements after Board review.
Minimum age
At least 18 years old.
Prior missouri law
20 CSR 2120-2.060(11) excuses sitting again after passing Missouri Law for another Missouri license within this Board; the current exam remains a leaf.
Secondary education
High school diploma, general equivalency diploma or Board-approved equivalent.
Void license
New application and fees; no old apprenticeship or application counts. Successful NBE-Arts passage and Missouri Law completed for another Board license are accepted as the rule states.
Placement of an existing license on disabled status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Certificate
The form says a disabled certificate is issued if regulatory requirements are met; this is a status change of the existing license.
Existing license
Existing Missouri funeral director license; signed notarized Board disability affidavit.
Practice
Licensee certifies that the profession will not be practiced while disabled.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Placement on inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
License status
Hold a current unexpired license or registration, apply for inactive status and refrain from practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Renewal while inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
License status
Renew inactive status using the completed form and fee before expiration; no practice while inactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Active duty military renewal or reinstatement protection
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Existing disciplinary obligations are stayed and resume under the rule; military status does not erase them.
License held
Current active Board license at activation.
Notice
Signed dated notice with license and activation information and evidence of active-duty service; comply with the applicable 180-day or special 60-day filing provision.
Renewal
Qualifying renewals and reinstatements are without additional renewal acts and fees as the rule specifies, and reinstatement is retroactive.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Return from inactive to active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
License status
Complete the renewal form and pay the renewal fee under 20 CSR 2120-2.021(4).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Licensure by reciprocity with substantially equivalent qualifications

All of the following:

Endorsement
Certificate of state endorsement with grades, disciplinary and pending-complaint information and recommendation; official supporting materials and fees.
License held
Valid, unrevoked and unexpired same-profession license; reciprocity grants only a like license.
Prior missouri law
An applicant already issued a Missouri embalmer or funeral-director license for which Missouri Law was required is excused from sitting the exam for the second license.
Qualifications
Educational and professional qualifications and originating licensing requirements must be substantially equivalent to Missouri requirements at original licensure.
Timing
Board rule requires complete reciprocity materials at least 30 days before the planned Missouri Law test. Current application instructions require completing the licensing process within 24 months.
Licensure by reciprocity from a jurisdiction with lesser requirements

All of the following:

Active experience
Five consecutive years of active experience as a licensed funeral director under RSMo 333.051.
Board review
The Board determines sufficiency, may reject on lawful grounds, and requires proof of proficiency; any unidentified additional testing is an applicant condition.
Endorsement
Certificate of state endorsement with grades, disciplinary and pending-complaint information and recommendation; official supporting materials and fees.
License held
Valid, unrevoked and unexpired same-profession license; reciprocity grants only a like license.
Prior missouri law
An applicant already issued a Missouri embalmer or funeral-director license for which Missouri Law was required is excused from sitting the exam for the second license.
Timing
Board rule requires complete reciprocity materials at least 30 days before the planned Missouri Law test. Current application instructions require completing the licensing process within 24 months.
Licensure recognition under RSMo 324.009
Missouri Law Examination (practice unavailable)
Compact
A license held solely through an interstate compact is ineligible; recognition grants a Missouri-only license.
Eligibility
Good standing, valid license on receipt, no unresolved investigation, complaint or discipline, and no disqualifying criminal record; statutory denial and resolved-discipline provisions apply.
Endorsement and application
Board endorsement, application, fees and background check; same-profession license only.
Examinations waived
RSMo 324.009.3(1) waives educational, experience and non-law examination requirements; Board rule 20 CSR 2120-2.040(3)(B) exercises the statutory permission to require Missouri Law.
License held
Current same-occupation, same-practice-level license held for at least one year; proof of licensure and originating minimum education, experience and clinical supervision where applicable.
Prior missouri law
Prior qualifying Missouri Law completion excuses a retake under the Board rule.
Expedited recognition for a military or law enforcement spouse under RSMo 324.009.3(2)
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board stated law demand
20 CSR 2120-2.040(3) also states: (3) Applicants eligible to apply for a reciprocal license as an embalmer or funeral director pursuant to section 324.009, RSMo, shall provide— (A) A certificate of state endorsement from the examining board of the state or territory in which the applicant holds his/her license showing the grade rating upon which his/her license was granted, a statement whether the reciprocity applicant has ever been subject to discipline or if there are any complaints pending against the reciprocity applicant, and a recommendation for licensure in Missouri; (B) The reciprocity applicant will be required to successfully complete the Missouri Law examination. If an applicant by reciprocity has received either an embalmer or funeral director license from the board for which the Missouri Law examination was required, that applicant will be exempt from taking the Missouri Law examination; (C) A completed application for licensure for reciprocity provided by the board; and (D) Payment of applicable fees including the fee charged by the Missouri State Highway Patrol for a criminal history background check, as required by the board. The higher-ranked spouse-specific statute controls this route; the Board-stated Missouri Law demand is preserved here for the applicant.
Compact
Compact-derived licenses are ineligible and recognition is valid only in Missouri.
Exam waiver
RSMo 324.009.3(2) directs waiver of any examination, educational or experience requirement and contains no state-law-exam exception.
Fees and background
Applicable fees and permitted fingerprint/background requirements remain; other statutory eligibility and denial provisions remain.
License held
Valid current same-profession, same-practice-level license held for at least one year; satisfy RSMo 324.009 eligibility conditions.
Spouse eligibility
Qualifying resident or nonresident military or law-enforcement spouse as defined in RSMo 324.009.1; statutory 30-day recognition applies.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-08-28.

Reinstatement within two years after renewal lapse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Requirements
Proper renewal forms and applicable delinquent/renewal fees; licenses remaining unrenewed for two years become void.
Time limit
Within two years of the renewal date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Biennial license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Renewal
Completed renewal materials and applicable fees; nonreceipt of notice does not excuse renewal. Funeral directors report preneed seller affiliations if acting as agents.
Renewal date
June 1 biennially for individual licenses; January 1 biennially for establishments.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Retirement status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affidavit
File Board retirement affidavit; no active practice or holding out. Retain only the wall certificate and surrender other indicia of licensure.
Age
Over 65 and retired from practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Return to practice after retirement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Return
Renew registration with the Board under RSMo 333.081.1; complete required renewal and applicable fee before practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-30.

Funeral Director Provisional License

Statutory provisional license implemented as a funeral director apprentice registration; examinations may be completed during its effective period.

Licensing authority: Missouri State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors · Application information

Provisional license and apprentice registration, 24 month pathway

All of the following:

Completion
Meet the 24-month pathway conditions for full licensure; registration becomes void when apprenticeship is complete.
Exam timing
Examinations are the currently offered examinations the pathway involves; they may be sat during the provisional period and are not prerequisites to issuing the registration.
Prior missouri law
Retaking is excused after qualifying Missouri Board passage.
Registration
Register, pay fees, provide age and high-school evidence, background check, supervisors and Function C establishments. Registration authorizes supervised practice.
Registration limit
No more than two apprenticeship periods without Board approval for good cause.
Supervision
Missouri-licensed funeral director, registered locations and timely notification of changes.
Provisional license and apprentice registration, 36 month pathway
Missouri Law Examination (practice unavailable)
Completion
Meet the 36-month pathway conditions for full licensure; registration becomes void when apprenticeship is complete.
Exam timing
Examinations are the currently offered examinations the pathway involves; they may be sat during the provisional period and are not prerequisites to issuing the registration.
Prior missouri law
Retaking is excused after qualifying Missouri Board passage.
Registration
Register, pay fees, provide age and high-school evidence, background check, supervisors and Function C establishments. Registration authorizes supervised practice.
Registration limit
No more than two apprenticeship periods without Board approval for good cause.
Supervision
Missouri-licensed funeral director, registered locations and timely notification of changes.

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

Missouri Law Examination

Examination outline
  • RSMo Chapter 333 — Embalmers and Funeral Directors
  • RSMo Chapter 436 — Special Purpose Contracts
  • RSMo Chapter 193 — Vital Statistics
  • RSMo Chapter 194 — Death, Disposition of Dead Bodies
  • 20 CSR 2120-1 — Organization and Description of Board
  • 20 CSR 2120-2 — General Rules
  • 20 CSR 2120-3 — Preneed
  • 16 CFR Part 453 — Funeral Industry Practices
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