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Ohio Funeral Service — Requirements & Free Practice

US-OH · License preparation

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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.

Courtesy Card Permit

Special permit for nonresident funeral directors licensed in a state bordering Ohio who do not hold an Ohio funeral director's license.

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

Initial courtesy card permit
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board condition
The Board page asks for proof of home-jurisdiction requirements substantially equal to R.C. 4717.05. Home-jurisdiction examination evidence is a condition, not an Ohio examination leaf.
Eligibility
Nonresident funeral director holding a license in a bordering jurisdiction and no Ohio funeral-director license.
Fee
Pay Board initial fee; comply with Ohio laws.
Scope
May sign/file specified death certificates and disposition permits and conduct ceremonies, interments and entombments; may not arrange services, contract or advertise services, be employed/contracted by an Ohio funeral home, embalm, or arrange disinterment.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial courtesy card renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fee
Pay biennial permit renewal fee; R.C. 4717.09(C) exempts courtesy-card holders from Ohio continuing education.
Standing
Maintain qualifying nonresident funeral-director licensure; comply with Ohio law and permit limitations.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Crematory Facility License

License to operate a crematory facility, issued to the crematory operator actually in charge and ultimately responsible, for the facility’s physical address.

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

Initial facility licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Compliance
Submit application, fee and proof of compliance with Board rules, building codes and all federal/state/local premises-safety requirements; ownership agents/partners disclosed.
Inspection
Board approval of premises and occupancy/inspection requirements under O.A.C. 4717-7-02, 4717-7-04 or 4717-7-05, as applicable.
License held
Applicant holds Ohio crematory operator permit and is actually in charge and ultimately responsible.
Location
License issued for the facility’s physical address.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility licence following majority ownership change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Surrender existing licence within thirty days; qualified responsible professional applies for a new facility licence within thirty days; requirements and Board review under R.C. 4717.06 and 4717.11(D).
Trigger
A change gives a new person or group majority ownership.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a lapsed facility licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fee
Pay statutory lapse fees for the existing lapsed facility licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility licence following relocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Surrender existing licence within thirty days; qualified responsible professional applies for a new facility licence within thirty days; requirements and Board review under R.C. 4717.06 and 4717.11(D).
Trigger
Facility location changes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial facility renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continued compliance
Maintain licensed responsible professional, facility compliance, licence display and inspection access.
Deadline
Renew by December 31 of every even-numbered year, file application and pay fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility licence after change of responsible professional
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Surrender existing licence within thirty days; qualified responsible professional applies for a new facility licence within thirty days; requirements and Board review under R.C. 4717.06 and 4717.11(D).
Trigger
The professional actually in charge and ultimately responsible changes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Crematory Operator Permit

Individual permit for crematory operators issued by the Ohio Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors.

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

Recognition of government certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board coursework
R.C. 4717.051(D) makes recognition subject to Chapter 4796 rather than ordinary certification-program training. The Board general permit page describes certification and two-hour Ohio laws coursework; it identifies no distinct Ohio crematory law examination.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The government certification must have required education, training or experience or examination under R.C. 4796.03(D).
Qualification
Hold government certification in the same profession from the uniformed services or a jurisdiction that does not license it; good standing; held one year and practiced at least one of preceding five years unless waived.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military service renewal after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Absence
Own or spouse’s qualifying armed-forces service caused non-renewal; present honorable discharge/release evidence within six months.
Fee
Usual cost without penalty or re-examination, subject to statutory physical/mental disqualification.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regular licence issued instead of military temporary licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background
Comply with R.C. 4776.01-.04 criminal-check requirements where the professional licence requires them.
Disqualification
Loss/expiration of supporting licence, loss of good standing, six months following marital dissolution for spouse-based permit, and specified disqualifying offenses govern denial/revocation.
Military duty
Adequate proof that applicant or spouse is on military duty in Ohio.
Outside license
Valid licence/certificate for the same trade or profession issued by another jurisdiction and good standing there.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and applicant training.
Timing
Issue within statutory thirty-day period or fourteen days after receiving criminal-check results; pending outside licensing investigation may postpone issuance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of an out of state occupational license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board coursework
R.C. 4717.051(D) makes recognition subject to Chapter 4796 rather than ordinary certification-program training. The Board general permit page describes certification and two-hour Ohio laws coursework; it identifies no distinct Ohio crematory law examination.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The supporting license must have required minimum education, training or experience or an examination under R.C. 4796.03(D); an examination of another state is an applicant condition.
Qualification
Hold a substantially similar license, in good standing in all licensing jurisdictions; held at least one year immediately before application and active practice at least one of the preceding five years, unless Board waives those periods.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of private certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board coursework
R.C. 4717.051(D) makes recognition subject to Chapter 4796 rather than ordinary certification-program training. The Board general permit page describes certification and two-hour Ohio laws coursework; it identifies no distinct Ohio crematory law examination.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Hold private certification for two immediately preceding years and practice at least two of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification; Board may waive those periods; good standing with the certifier.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a lapsed operator permit
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fee
Pay the lapse fee established in R.C. 4717.07; 4717.08(B) specifies this reinstatement without an examination.
Lapse
Hold an existing lapsed crematory operator permit.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal through approved refresher coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Course
Board-approved refresher course of at least four hours; certificate valid five years.
Fee
Apply and pay biennial renewal fee.
Ohio laws course
Two hours of Ohio crematory laws/rules completed within twenty-four months; may be included in the refresher.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of work experience
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board coursework
R.C. 4717.051(D) makes recognition subject to Chapter 4796 rather than ordinary certification-program training. The Board general permit page describes certification and two-hour Ohio laws coursework; it identifies no distinct Ohio crematory law examination.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Practice at least three of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification, or in the uniformed services; Board may waive the period.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Embalmer License

Ohio individual license for practice as an embalmer.

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

Recognition of government certification
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Board exam statement
Take and pass with a score of 75% or higher, any required national board exams, and the Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations Exam (Ohio LRR)
Board legacy requirements
R.C. 4717.10(A) now mandates Chapter 4796 recognition. The Board reciprocal page also asks for two references, an apprenticeship, current licensure verification, a bachelor degree unless licensed elsewhere ten years, and, for embalmers, twelve months of mortuary instruction. O.A.C. 4717-4-02 states: (C) The applicant for a reciprocal embalmer's license shall provide proof of earning a seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and sit for the Ohio laws and rules examination. (D) Upon earning a passing score of seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and the Ohio laws and rules examination, the applicant shall submit to the board an application for embalmer's license, along with the applicable fee.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The government certification must have required education, training or experience or examination under R.C. 4796.03(D).
Qualification
Hold government certification in the same profession from the uniformed services or a jurisdiction that does not license it; good standing; held one year and practiced at least one of preceding five years unless waived.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.
Initial licensure by examination
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit verified application, termination documents and applicable fees; Board approval at its meeting.
Apprenticeship
Board certification before a one-year supervised embalmer apprenticeship; R.C. 4717.05(A)(5) requires fifteen bodies, while O.A.C. 4717-5-01(B)(1) and Board training require twenty-five arterial embalming cases and the task list.
Background
Provide BCI/FBI criminal records checks sent directly to the Board; the Board says they remain valid twelve months.
Education
Bachelor degree and at least twelve months of approved mortuary-science instruction; provide official transcripts and the completion certificate.
Exam eligibility
An approved Board-member interview can authorize testing during the apprenticeship; passing does not discharge remaining apprenticeship duties.
Military credit
Under R.C. 5903.03, equivalent military specialty training and honorable service satisfy education and experience requirements.
Military service renewal after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Absence
Non-renewal resulted from own armed-forces service or spouse’s service causing absence from Ohio.
Discharge
Submit satisfactory proof of honorable discharge or release within six months; usual renewal cost, no penalty or re-examination, and not otherwise disqualified because of mental or physical disability.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regular licence issued instead of military temporary licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background
Comply with R.C. 4776.01-.04 criminal-check requirements where the professional licence requires them.
Disqualification
Loss/expiration of supporting licence, loss of good standing, six months following marital dissolution for spouse-based permit, and specified disqualifying offenses govern denial/revocation.
Military duty
Adequate proof that applicant or spouse is on military duty in Ohio.
Outside license
Valid licence/certificate for the same trade or profession issued by another jurisdiction and good standing there.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and applicant training.
Timing
Issue within statutory thirty-day period or fourteen days after receiving criminal-check results; pending outside licensing investigation may postpone issuance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of an out of state occupational license
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Board exam statement
Take and pass with a score of 75% or higher, any required national board exams, and the Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations Exam (Ohio LRR)
Board legacy requirements
R.C. 4717.10(A) now mandates Chapter 4796 recognition. The Board reciprocal page also asks for two references, an apprenticeship, current licensure verification, a bachelor degree unless licensed elsewhere ten years, and, for embalmers, twelve months of mortuary instruction. O.A.C. 4717-4-02 states: (C) The applicant for a reciprocal embalmer's license shall provide proof of earning a seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and sit for the Ohio laws and rules examination. (D) Upon earning a passing score of seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and the Ohio laws and rules examination, the applicant shall submit to the board an application for embalmer's license, along with the applicable fee.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The supporting license must have required minimum education, training or experience or an examination under R.C. 4796.03(D); an examination of another state is an applicant condition.
Qualification
Hold a substantially similar license, in good standing in all licensing jurisdictions; held at least one year immediately before application and active practice at least one of the preceding five years, unless Board waives those periods.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.
Recognition of private certification
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Board exam statement
Take and pass with a score of 75% or higher, any required national board exams, and the Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations Exam (Ohio LRR)
Board legacy requirements
R.C. 4717.10(A) now mandates Chapter 4796 recognition. The Board reciprocal page also asks for two references, an apprenticeship, current licensure verification, a bachelor degree unless licensed elsewhere ten years, and, for embalmers, twelve months of mortuary instruction. O.A.C. 4717-4-02 states: (C) The applicant for a reciprocal embalmer's license shall provide proof of earning a seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and sit for the Ohio laws and rules examination. (D) Upon earning a passing score of seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and the Ohio laws and rules examination, the applicant shall submit to the board an application for embalmer's license, along with the applicable fee.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Hold private certification for two immediately preceding years and practice at least two of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification; Board may waive those periods; good standing with the certifier.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.
Reactivation after inactive status
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Application
File the Board form, supply requested information, take and pass Ohio laws examination for each license reactivated, and pay reactivation fee.
Inactive period
Inactive status for at least two years; no licensed practice during inactivity.
Reinstatement after lapse exceeding 180 days
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Fee
Pay statutory lapsed-license fee and pass Ohio laws examination for each license.
Lapse
License lapsed more than 180 days after expiration.
Reinstatement after lapse of no more than 180 days
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fee
Pay renewal fee and the applicable lapse charges.
Lapse
Lapse does not exceed 180 days; R.C. 4717.08(C) adds the examination only above that threshold.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return to practice following continuing education exemption
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Alternatives
Provide equivalent out-of-state practice and continuing education for each exempt year, complete the continuing education required over the exemption period, or successfully complete Ohio laws license examination within one year after application. The examination may be excused through the non-examination alternatives.
Application
Written Board application before returning to practice.
Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
R.C. 4717.09(A), effective December 31, 2024, requires at least twelve hours every two years. O.A.C. 4717-9-01 states eighteen hours, six face-to-face, including ethics, preneed and laws/rules topics; this higher Board-rule demand is shown as an applicant condition. A dual license holder satisfies the requirement once.
Course tests
Online continuing education may require course tests under O.A.C. 4717-9-04; these unnamed course assessments are applicant conditions.
Deadline
Renew by December 31 of every even-numbered year; apply and pay renewal fee.
Military extension
An applicant with documented active duty may extend the reporting period by months served under R.C. 5903.12 and have relevant military education, training or service considered under 5903.121.
Waivers
First compliance-period exemption; inactive status, non-practice, fifty years of licensure where not actually in charge, disability and undue-hardship exemptions/waivers are governed by R.C. 4717.09(F)-(G) and O.A.C. 4717-9-02.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of work experience
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Board exam statement
Take and pass with a score of 75% or higher, any required national board exams, and the Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations Exam (Ohio LRR)
Board legacy requirements
R.C. 4717.10(A) now mandates Chapter 4796 recognition. The Board reciprocal page also asks for two references, an apprenticeship, current licensure verification, a bachelor degree unless licensed elsewhere ten years, and, for embalmers, twelve months of mortuary instruction. O.A.C. 4717-4-02 states: (C) The applicant for a reciprocal embalmer's license shall provide proof of earning a seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and sit for the Ohio laws and rules examination. (D) Upon earning a passing score of seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and the Ohio laws and rules examination, the applicant shall submit to the board an application for embalmer's license, along with the applicable fee.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Practice at least three of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification, or in the uniformed services; Board may waive the period.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.

Certified Embalmer Apprenticeship

Board certification of an embalmer apprenticeship, documented by an apprentice card and wall display.

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

Recognition of government certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The government certification must have required education, training or experience or examination under R.C. 4796.03(D).
Qualification
Hold government certification in the same profession from the uniformed services or a jurisdiction that does not license it; good standing; held one year and practiced at least one of preceding five years unless waived.
Scope
This is recognition of an apprentice card/training authority under R.C. 4717.05(F), not recognition of a full professional license. The full-license examinations occur at the later ordinary-license route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial apprentice certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background
BCI/FBI checks sent directly to Board; application, fee, master certificate and Board certification before training.
Education
Provide college transcripts and Board-required education; R.C. 4717.05(I) also permits a person enrolled at an authorized degree-conferring institution to apply. Mortuary education applies to embalmer training.
Training
Training, supervision, case counts, quarterly reports, tasks and interviews follow O.A.C. 4717-5-01. Examinations there govern the later full-license application, not issuance of the apprentice card.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of an out of state occupational license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The supporting license must have required minimum education, training or experience or an examination under R.C. 4796.03(D); an examination of another state is an applicant condition.
Qualification
Hold a substantially similar license, in good standing in all licensing jurisdictions; held at least one year immediately before application and active practice at least one of the preceding five years, unless Board waives those periods.
Scope
This is recognition of an apprentice card/training authority under R.C. 4717.05(F), not recognition of a full professional license. The full-license examinations occur at the later ordinary-license route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of private certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Hold private certification for two immediately preceding years and practice at least two of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification; Board may waive those periods; good standing with the certifier.
Scope
This is recognition of an apprentice card/training authority under R.C. 4717.05(F), not recognition of a full professional license. The full-license examinations occur at the later ordinary-license route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recertification following interrupted apprenticeship
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Leave
Terminate during disability, maternity, military or other approved leave, notify Board within ten days, and recertify using required forms after leave. Interrupted apprenticeship requires immediate notice and return of card; five years of inactivity forfeits credit under O.A.C. 4717-5-01(L).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of work experience
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Practice at least three of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification, or in the uniformed services; Board may waive the period.
Scope
This is recognition of an apprentice card/training authority under R.C. 4717.05(F), not recognition of a full professional license. The full-license examinations occur at the later ordinary-license route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Embalming Facility License

License to operate an embalming facility at its physical address, issued to a licensed embalmer actually in charge of and ultimately responsible for the facility.

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

Initial facility licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Compliance
Submit application, fee and proof of compliance with Board rules, building codes and all federal/state/local premises-safety requirements; ownership agents/partners disclosed.
Inspection
Board approval of premises and occupancy/inspection requirements under O.A.C. 4717-7-02, 4717-7-04 or 4717-7-05, as applicable.
License held
Applicant holds Ohio embalmer license and is actually in charge and ultimately responsible.
Location
License issued for the facility’s physical address.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility licence following majority ownership change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Surrender existing licence within thirty days; qualified responsible professional applies for a new facility licence within thirty days; requirements and Board review under R.C. 4717.06 and 4717.11(D).
Trigger
A change gives a new person or group majority ownership.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a lapsed facility licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fee
Pay statutory lapse fees for the existing lapsed facility licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility licence following relocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Surrender existing licence within thirty days; qualified responsible professional applies for a new facility licence within thirty days; requirements and Board review under R.C. 4717.06 and 4717.11(D).
Trigger
Facility location changes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial facility renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continued compliance
Maintain licensed responsible professional, facility compliance, licence display and inspection access.
Deadline
Renew by December 31 of every even-numbered year, file application and pay fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility licence after change of responsible professional
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Surrender existing licence within thirty days; qualified responsible professional applies for a new facility licence within thirty days; requirements and Board review under R.C. 4717.06 and 4717.11(D).
Trigger
The professional actually in charge and ultimately responsible changes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Funeral Director License

Individual funeral director license administered by the Ohio Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors.

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

Recognition of government certification
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Board exam statement
Take and pass with a score of 75% or higher, any required national board exams, and the Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations Exam (Ohio LRR)
Board legacy requirements
R.C. 4717.10(A) now mandates Chapter 4796 recognition. The Board reciprocal page also asks for two references, an apprenticeship, current licensure verification, a bachelor degree unless licensed elsewhere ten years, and, for embalmers, twelve months of mortuary instruction. O.A.C. 4717-4-05 states: (C) The applicant for a reciprocal funeral director's license shall provide proof of earning a seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and sit for the Ohio laws and rules examination. (D) Upon earning a passing score of seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and the Ohio laws and rules examination, the applicant shall submit to the board an application for funeral director's license, along with the applicable fee.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The government certification must have required education, training or experience or examination under R.C. 4796.03(D).
Qualification
Hold government certification in the same profession from the uniformed services or a jurisdiction that does not license it; good standing; held one year and practiced at least one of preceding five years unless waived.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.
Initial issuance with apprenticeship in lieu of mortuary science training
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Board certification before apprenticeship; submit termination documents, verified application and applicable fees; Board approval at its meeting.
Apprenticeship
Two-year funeral-director apprenticeship and participation in at least fifty funerals under R.C. 4717.05(D); O.A.C. 4717-5-01(G)(2) requires completion within forty-eight months and the task list.
Background
Provide current BCI/FBI checks sent directly to the Board; the Board says validity is twelve months.
Education
Bachelor degree; provide official college transcript.
Exam eligibility
A successful approved Board-member interview permits testing during apprenticeship; passing does not discharge remaining duties.
Military credit
Equivalent military specialty training and honorable service satisfy educational and experience requirements under R.C. 5903.03.
Initial issuance with mortuary science training
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Board certification before apprenticeship; submit termination documents, verified application and applicable fees; Board approval at its meeting.
Apprenticeship
R.C. 4717.05(C)(3) requires one year after mortuary training and participation in at least twenty-five funerals. Dual apprenticeship requires completion of both training task lists. The Board describes its Funeral Director Only apprenticeship as a twenty-four-month term; applicants should consult the Board about the training route.
Background
Provide current BCI/FBI checks sent directly to the Board; the Board says validity is twelve months.
Education
Bachelor degree; provide official college transcript.
Exam eligibility
A successful approved Board-member interview permits testing during apprenticeship; passing does not discharge remaining duties.
Military credit
Equivalent military specialty training and honorable service satisfy educational and experience requirements under R.C. 5903.03.
Mortuary training
At least twelve months of approved mortuary-science training.
Military service renewal after expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Absence
Non-renewal resulted from own armed-forces service or spouse’s service causing absence from Ohio.
Discharge
Submit satisfactory proof of honorable discharge or release within six months; usual renewal cost, no penalty or re-examination, and not otherwise disqualified because of mental or physical disability.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Regular licence issued instead of military temporary licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background
Comply with R.C. 4776.01-.04 criminal-check requirements where the professional licence requires them.
Disqualification
Loss/expiration of supporting licence, loss of good standing, six months following marital dissolution for spouse-based permit, and specified disqualifying offenses govern denial/revocation.
Military duty
Adequate proof that applicant or spouse is on military duty in Ohio.
Outside license
Valid licence/certificate for the same trade or profession issued by another jurisdiction and good standing there.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and applicant training.
Timing
Issue within statutory thirty-day period or fourteen days after receiving criminal-check results; pending outside licensing investigation may postpone issuance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of an out of state occupational license
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Board exam statement
Take and pass with a score of 75% or higher, any required national board exams, and the Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations Exam (Ohio LRR)
Board legacy requirements
R.C. 4717.10(A) now mandates Chapter 4796 recognition. The Board reciprocal page also asks for two references, an apprenticeship, current licensure verification, a bachelor degree unless licensed elsewhere ten years, and, for embalmers, twelve months of mortuary instruction. O.A.C. 4717-4-05 states: (C) The applicant for a reciprocal funeral director's license shall provide proof of earning a seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and sit for the Ohio laws and rules examination. (D) Upon earning a passing score of seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and the Ohio laws and rules examination, the applicant shall submit to the board an application for funeral director's license, along with the applicable fee.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The supporting license must have required minimum education, training or experience or an examination under R.C. 4796.03(D); an examination of another state is an applicant condition.
Qualification
Hold a substantially similar license, in good standing in all licensing jurisdictions; held at least one year immediately before application and active practice at least one of the preceding five years, unless Board waives those periods.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.
Recognition of private certification
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Board exam statement
Take and pass with a score of 75% or higher, any required national board exams, and the Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations Exam (Ohio LRR)
Board legacy requirements
R.C. 4717.10(A) now mandates Chapter 4796 recognition. The Board reciprocal page also asks for two references, an apprenticeship, current licensure verification, a bachelor degree unless licensed elsewhere ten years, and, for embalmers, twelve months of mortuary instruction. O.A.C. 4717-4-05 states: (C) The applicant for a reciprocal funeral director's license shall provide proof of earning a seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and sit for the Ohio laws and rules examination. (D) Upon earning a passing score of seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and the Ohio laws and rules examination, the applicant shall submit to the board an application for funeral director's license, along with the applicable fee.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Hold private certification for two immediately preceding years and practice at least two of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification; Board may waive those periods; good standing with the certifier.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.
Reactivation after inactive status
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Application
File the Board form, supply requested information, take and pass Ohio laws examination for each license reactivated, and pay reactivation fee.
Inactive period
Inactive status for at least two years; no licensed practice during inactivity.
Reinstatement after lapse exceeding 180 days
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Fee
Pay statutory lapsed-license fee and pass Ohio laws examination for each license.
Lapse
License lapsed more than 180 days after expiration.
Reinstatement after lapse of no more than 180 days
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fee
Pay renewal fee and the applicable lapse charges.
Lapse
Lapse does not exceed 180 days; R.C. 4717.08(C) adds the examination only above that threshold.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return to practice following continuing education exemption
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Alternatives
Provide equivalent out-of-state practice and continuing education for each exempt year, complete the continuing education required over the exemption period, or successfully complete Ohio laws license examination within one year after application. The examination may be excused through the non-examination alternatives.
Application
Written Board application before returning to practice.
Biennial renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
R.C. 4717.09(A), effective December 31, 2024, requires at least twelve hours every two years. O.A.C. 4717-9-01 states eighteen hours, six face-to-face, including ethics, preneed and laws/rules topics; this higher Board-rule demand is shown as an applicant condition. A dual license holder satisfies the requirement once.
Course tests
Online continuing education may require course tests under O.A.C. 4717-9-04; these unnamed course assessments are applicant conditions.
Deadline
Renew by December 31 of every even-numbered year; apply and pay renewal fee.
Military extension
An applicant with documented active duty may extend the reporting period by months served under R.C. 5903.12 and have relevant military education, training or service considered under 5903.121.
Waivers
First compliance-period exemption; inactive status, non-practice, fifty years of licensure where not actually in charge, disability and undue-hardship exemptions/waivers are governed by R.C. 4717.09(F)-(G) and O.A.C. 4717-9-02.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of work experience
Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)
Board exam statement
Take and pass with a score of 75% or higher, any required national board exams, and the Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations Exam (Ohio LRR)
Board legacy requirements
R.C. 4717.10(A) now mandates Chapter 4796 recognition. The Board reciprocal page also asks for two references, an apprenticeship, current licensure verification, a bachelor degree unless licensed elsewhere ten years, and, for embalmers, twelve months of mortuary instruction. O.A.C. 4717-4-05 states: (C) The applicant for a reciprocal funeral director's license shall provide proof of earning a seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and sit for the Ohio laws and rules examination. (D) Upon earning a passing score of seventy-five per cent or higher on each section of a nationally-recognized comprehensive examination and the Ohio laws and rules examination, the applicant shall submit to the board an application for funeral director's license, along with the applicable fee.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Practice at least three of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification, or in the uniformed services; Board may waive the period.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and the applicant’s training under R.C. 4796.21.

Certified Funeral Director Apprenticeship

Board certification for a funeral director apprenticeship, documented by an apprentice card and wall display.

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

Recognition of government certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The government certification must have required education, training or experience or examination under R.C. 4796.03(D).
Qualification
Hold government certification in the same profession from the uniformed services or a jurisdiction that does not license it; good standing; held one year and practiced at least one of preceding five years unless waived.
Scope
This is recognition of an apprentice card/training authority under R.C. 4717.05(F), not recognition of a full professional license. The full-license examinations occur at the later ordinary-license route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial apprentice certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background
BCI/FBI checks sent directly to Board; application, fee, master certificate and Board certification before training.
Education
Provide college transcripts and Board-required education; R.C. 4717.05(I) also permits a person enrolled at an authorized degree-conferring institution to apply. Mortuary education applies to embalmer training.
Training
Training, supervision, case counts, quarterly reports, tasks and interviews follow O.A.C. 4717-5-01. Examinations there govern the later full-license application, not issuance of the apprentice card.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of an out of state occupational license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Prior qualification
The supporting license must have required minimum education, training or experience or an examination under R.C. 4796.03(D); an examination of another state is an applicant condition.
Qualification
Hold a substantially similar license, in good standing in all licensing jurisdictions; held at least one year immediately before application and active practice at least one of the preceding five years, unless Board waives those periods.
Scope
This is recognition of an apprentice card/training authority under R.C. 4717.05(F), not recognition of a full professional license. The full-license examinations occur at the later ordinary-license route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of private certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Hold private certification for two immediately preceding years and practice at least two of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification; Board may waive those periods; good standing with the certifier.
Scope
This is recognition of an apprentice card/training authority under R.C. 4717.05(F), not recognition of a full professional license. The full-license examinations occur at the later ordinary-license route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recertification following interrupted apprenticeship
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Leave
Terminate during disability, maternity, military or other approved leave, notify Board within ten days, and recertify using required forms after leave. Interrupted apprenticeship requires immediate notice and return of card; five years of inactivity forfeits credit under O.A.C. 4717-5-01(L).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Recognition of work experience
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Conduct
No surrender or revocation for negligent or intentional misconduct, no applicable disqualifying criminal offense, and applicable licensing fees under R.C. 4796.03(E)-(G).
Criminal check
Criminal records check is required by R.C. 4796.08(B) and 4717.061.
Individual capacity
Apply in an individual capacity and hold the supporting credential, or perform the supporting work, in that capacity under R.C. 4796.26.
Pending proceedings
Pending relevant complaints, investigations and criminal proceedings must be resolved to the Board’s satisfaction under R.C. 4796.20(B).
Qualification
Practice at least three of preceding five years in a jurisdiction without occupational licensing or government certification, or in the uniformed services; Board may waive the period.
Scope
This is recognition of an apprentice card/training authority under R.C. 4717.05(F), not recognition of a full professional license. The full-license examinations occur at the later ordinary-license route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Funeral Home License

License to operate a funeral home, issued to the licensed funeral director actually in charge and ultimately responsible, for the facility’s physical address.

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

Initial facility licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Compliance
Submit application, fee and proof of compliance with Board rules, building codes and all federal/state/local premises-safety requirements; ownership agents/partners disclosed.
Inspection
Board approval of premises and occupancy/inspection requirements under O.A.C. 4717-7-02, 4717-7-04 or 4717-7-05, as applicable.
License held
Applicant holds Ohio funeral-director license and is actually in charge and ultimately responsible.
Location
License issued for the facility’s physical address.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility licence following majority ownership change
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Surrender existing licence within thirty days; qualified responsible professional applies for a new facility licence within thirty days; requirements and Board review under R.C. 4717.06 and 4717.11(D).
Trigger
A change gives a new person or group majority ownership.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a lapsed facility licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Fee
Pay statutory lapse fees for the existing lapsed facility licence.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility licence following relocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Surrender existing licence within thirty days; qualified responsible professional applies for a new facility licence within thirty days; requirements and Board review under R.C. 4717.06 and 4717.11(D).
Trigger
Facility location changes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial facility renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continued compliance
Maintain licensed responsible professional, facility compliance, licence display and inspection access.
Deadline
Renew by December 31 of every even-numbered year, file application and pay fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New facility licence after change of responsible professional
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Surrender existing licence within thirty days; qualified responsible professional applies for a new facility licence within thirty days; requirements and Board review under R.C. 4717.06 and 4717.11(D).
Trigger
The professional actually in charge and ultimately responsible changes.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Crematory Operator License

Temporary authorization for an individual licensed and in good standing in another jurisdiction whose own or spouse's military duty is in Ohio, subject to applicable criminal-records checks.

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

Temporary issuance for military member or spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background
Comply with R.C. 4776.01-.04 criminal-check requirements where the professional licence requires them.
Disqualification
Loss/expiration of supporting licence, loss of good standing, six months following marital dissolution for spouse-based permit, and specified disqualifying offenses govern denial/revocation.
Duration
Temporary licence cannot be valid for more than six years.
Fee
All fees associated with temporary issuance are waived.
Military duty
Adequate proof that applicant or spouse is on military duty in Ohio.
Outside license
Valid licence/certificate for the same trade or profession issued by another jurisdiction and good standing there.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and applicant training.
Timing
Issue within statutory thirty-day period or fourteen days after receiving criminal-check results; pending outside licensing investigation may postpone issuance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of military temporary licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
Temporary licence never valid longer than six years; continue to satisfy military and outside-licence eligibility.
Professional renewal
R.C. 4743.041(J) applies professional-licence provisions. For embalmers/funeral directors applicable continuing education or exemptions apply; crematory-operator certification/refresher and Ohio laws coursework apply as applicant conditions.
Standing
Board verifies standing of supporting outside licence at renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Embalmer License

Temporary licensing for qualifying individuals holding a valid professional license in another jurisdiction and in good standing, whose own or spouse's military duty is in Ohio, subject to applicable criminal-record checks.

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

Temporary issuance for military member or spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background
Comply with R.C. 4776.01-.04 criminal-check requirements where the professional licence requires them.
Disqualification
Loss/expiration of supporting licence, loss of good standing, six months following marital dissolution for spouse-based permit, and specified disqualifying offenses govern denial/revocation.
Duration
Temporary licence cannot be valid for more than six years.
Fee
All fees associated with temporary issuance are waived.
Military duty
Adequate proof that applicant or spouse is on military duty in Ohio.
Outside license
Valid licence/certificate for the same trade or profession issued by another jurisdiction and good standing there.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and applicant training.
Timing
Issue within statutory thirty-day period or fourteen days after receiving criminal-check results; pending outside licensing investigation may postpone issuance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of military temporary licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
Temporary licence never valid longer than six years; continue to satisfy military and outside-licence eligibility.
Professional renewal
R.C. 4743.041(J) applies professional-licence provisions. For embalmers/funeral directors applicable continuing education or exemptions apply; crematory-operator certification/refresher and Ohio laws coursework apply as applicant conditions.
Standing
Board verifies standing of supporting outside licence at renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Funeral Director License

Temporary licensure for qualifying out-of-jurisdiction license holders in good standing whose own or spouse's military duty is in Ohio, subject to applicable criminal-records checks.

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

Temporary issuance for military member or spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background
Comply with R.C. 4776.01-.04 criminal-check requirements where the professional licence requires them.
Disqualification
Loss/expiration of supporting licence, loss of good standing, six months following marital dissolution for spouse-based permit, and specified disqualifying offenses govern denial/revocation.
Duration
Temporary licence cannot be valid for more than six years.
Fee
All fees associated with temporary issuance are waived.
Military duty
Adequate proof that applicant or spouse is on military duty in Ohio.
Outside license
Valid licence/certificate for the same trade or profession issued by another jurisdiction and good standing there.
Scope
Practice only within Ohio scope and applicant training.
Timing
Issue within statutory thirty-day period or fourteen days after receiving criminal-check results; pending outside licensing investigation may postpone issuance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of military temporary licence
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
Temporary licence never valid longer than six years; continue to satisfy military and outside-licence eligibility.
Professional renewal
R.C. 4743.041(J) applies professional-licence provisions. For embalmers/funeral directors applicable continuing education or exemptions apply; crematory-operator certification/refresher and Ohio laws coursework apply as applicant conditions.
Standing
Board verifies standing of supporting outside licence at renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Ohio Laws, Rules and Regulations (LRR)

Provider
The Conference; Pearson VUE
Format
Computer-based
Exam questions
50
Time limit
1 hour
Passing score
75%
Examination outline
  • Ohio laws governing embalming and funeral directing
  • Ohio laws governing transportation of dead human bodies
  • Ohio health laws, rules and regulations governing preparation and transportation of dead human bodies
  • Ohio laws governing sales tax as related to funeral directing
  • Ohio laws governing funds provided by the bureau of workers' compensation for final disposition of dead human bodies when the cause of death is work-related
  • Federal laws governing burial of veterans
  • Ohio laws governing funeral processions
  • Ohio laws, rules and regulations governing pre-need funeral contracts
  • Federal trade commission funeral rules
  • Occupational, safety, and health administration (OSHA) regulations
  • Environmental protection agency (EPA) regulations
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