2026 data New Jersey board official source

New Jersey Funeral Director / Embalmer License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Manages funeral services. Licensed in all 50 states.

What the New Jersey data shows for Funeral Director / Embalmers

New Jersey sets the entry bar for funeral director / embalmers at 1,500 training hours and a passing score on a state-approved exam. A background check is a standard part of the process. The credential is administered under New Jersey's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Budget $75 to get started on a 2-year cycle. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in New Jersey, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

New Jersey evaluates out-of-state credentials case-by-case rather than through a published reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in New Jersey

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 New Jersey licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Funeral Director / Embalmer in New Jersey?
New Jersey requires 1500 education/training hours, passing an exam, and an initial fee of $75. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Funeral Director / Embalmer in New Jersey?
Certification as a funeral director / embalmer in New Jersey means clearing the state's checklist: 1500 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The New Jersey licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Funeral Director / Embalmer license to New Jersey from another state?
New Jersey doesn't publish a standing reciprocity policy for funeral director / embalmers; each out-of-state application is reviewed on its own merits. Some professions fall under interstate compacts that ease portability regardless. The New Jersey licensing board can confirm what applies to your case.
Does New Jersey require a background check for Funeral Director / Embalmer licensing?
Background screening is part of the funeral director / embalmer licensing process in New Jersey. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.

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