2026 data Illinois board official source

Illinois Funeral Director / Embalmer License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Manages funeral services. Licensed in all 50 states.

What the Illinois data shows for Funeral Director / Embalmers

Becoming a licensed funeral director / embalmer in Illinois means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 1,500 training hours, a passing score on a state-approved exam, plus a background history check. Illinois regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Budget $75 to get started on a 2-year cycle. Illinois doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

Illinois handles out-of-state credentials on a case-by-case basis instead of a standing reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,500 hours
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$75
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Illinois licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Funeral Director / Embalmer in Illinois?
Illinois's requirements cover 1500 hours of education or training, a state exam, and an initial fee of $75. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Funeral Director / Embalmer in Illinois?
Illinois licenses funeral director / embalmers who complete its requirements (1500 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Illinois licensing board.
Can I transfer my Funeral Director / Embalmer license to Illinois from another state?
Out-of-state funeral director / embalmer credentials get a case-by-case review in Illinois rather than automatic recognition. Interstate compacts exist for a number of professions and might still help. Confirm the details with the Illinois licensing board.
Does Illinois require a background check for Funeral Director / Embalmer licensing?
Yes, Illinois requires a criminal background check as part of the funeral director / embalmer licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites