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West Virginia Funeral Service — Requirements & Free Practice

US-WV · License preparation

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Alkaline Hydrolysis Operator Certificate

Certificate for alkaline hydrolysis operators; applicants must attend a Board-approved operator course before registering.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Training
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 18; submit government-issued identification.
Curriculum
Course covers industry terminology, principles of operation, environmental quality, equipment procedures, handling bodies/packaging remains and exposure control.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Training
Attend a Board-approved crematory or alkaline-hydrolysis operator certification course and submit its completion certificate. Training is an applicant condition, not a separately identified Board licensing examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Status
Previously inactive operator certificate.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Notice
Notify the Board of return to active practice.
Training
Complete the applicable continuing education requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Meet §30-6-12 good-character, disciplinary-history, reciprocity, fee and other Board requirements.
Prior Certification
Hold a valid, equivalent out-of-state certificate; demonstrate substantially equivalent education and examinations if the original jurisdiction used examinations. Such other-state assessments are applicant conditions.
Training
Submit Board-approved operator course completion as required by 6CSR2 §5.1.3.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Personally appear before the Board or its committee, explain lapse and obtain reinstatement approval.
Fees
Pay reinstatement, late and renewal fees.
Lapse
Certificate erased after more than 90 days past due.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Certificate
Hold the operator certificate.
Renewal
Apply by July 1 of the biennial renewal period and pay renewal fee.
Training
Complete and document additional operator training when new equipment or changed industry regulation triggers Board requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany that member on an official permanent change of station to a West Virginia military installation.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Establish residence in West Virginia.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive Alkaline Hydrolysis Operator Certificate

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit written reinstatement application.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications and comply with the individual Board order while remaining inactive until reactivated.
Existing Authorization
Previously held inactive alkaline hydrolysis operator certification.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Certificate
Hold an alkaline hydrolysis operator certificate.
Fees
Pay applicable inactive-status fees.
Practice
Notify the Board that active operation is discontinued.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Appear before the Board or its committee, provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and obtain reinstatement approval.
Existing Status
Inactive operator certificate lapsed and was erased from the register after more than 90 days past due.
Fees
Pay applicable reinstatement, late and renewal fees.
Practice
Remain inactive until satisfying the separate active-practice reactivation conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Status
Maintain inactive operator certification and submit biennial renewal.
Fees
Pay applicable renewal fees.
Practice
Do not operate until reactivated.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Apprentice Funeral Director Registration

Board registration for an apprentice funeral director pursuing the funeral director license only.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Apprenticeship
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 18 and submit birth certificate.
Application
Submit Board application, photograph, supervising preceptor information and fees.
Apprenticeship Duration
One year under controlling §30-6-17(c). The Board funeral-director apprentice instructions state two years; this conflicting administrative demand is an applicant condition.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Fee Waiver
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Supervision
Register for supervised apprenticeship; future professional-license exams belong to the later professional-license route, not the initial apprentice registration.
Work Eligibility
United States citizenship or employment eligibility; criminal-history eligibility under §30-6-17 and §30-1-24.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and demonstrate competency to work as an apprentice.
Elapsed Time
after one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late or reinstatement fee and current renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and demonstrate competency to work as an apprentice.
Elapsed Time
within one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late or reinstatement fee and current renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
Complete the funeral director apprenticeship under §30-6-17(c), which limits the apprenticeship to one year; the Board materials state two years, as recorded on the issuance route.
Existing Registration
Hold the apprentice registration and maintain approved supervised apprenticeship.
Fees
Pay applicable registration renewal fees; fifth-year renewal is annual under §17.11.1.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany that member on an official permanent change of station to a West Virginia military installation.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Establish residence in West Virginia.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Apprentice Funeral Service Licensee Registration

Registration to be an apprentice funeral service licensee.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Apprenticeship
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 18 and submit birth certificate.
Application
Submit Board application, photograph, supervising preceptor information and fees.
Apprenticeship Duration
One year under controlling §30-6-17(c). The Board funeral-director apprentice instructions state two years; this conflicting administrative demand is an applicant condition.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Fee Waiver
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Supervision
Register for supervised apprenticeship; future professional-license exams belong to the later professional-license route, not the initial apprentice registration.
Work Eligibility
United States citizenship or employment eligibility; criminal-history eligibility under §30-6-17 and §30-1-24.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and demonstrate competency to work as an apprentice.
Elapsed Time
after one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late or reinstatement fee and current renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and demonstrate competency to work as an apprentice.
Elapsed Time
within one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late or reinstatement fee and current renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
Funeral service apprentice ordinarily has five years to finish, with a Board-authorized extension for good cause under 6CSR1 §4.2.
Existing Registration
Hold the apprentice registration and maintain approved supervised apprenticeship.
Fees
Pay applicable registration renewal fees; fifth-year renewal is annual under §17.11.1.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany that member on an official permanent change of station to a West Virginia military installation.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Establish residence in West Virginia.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Branch Funeral Establishment

License to operate a branch funeral establishment affiliated with a licensed main funeral establishment.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional Requirements
Complete other Board requirements; staff credentials are applicant/facility conditions.
Application
Apply before opening and notify the Board at least 30 days before proposed opening for inspection.
Facility Form
Branch Funeral Establishment License
Fees
Pay applicable licensing and inspection fees.
Inspection
Pass the Board inspection and satisfy facility/equipment/public-health requirements.
Location
Separate license for each specific street address.
Management
Employ the qualified licensee in charge required by §30-6-19. From July 1, 2026, the statute allows up to two years to complete the listed credentials. The preneed license is required if the establishment offers or sells preneed contracts.
Mortuary Restriction
Follow the provisions applicable to this facility form.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
The Board determines at its meeting that all establishment requirements have been met.
Existing Authorization
Hold the corresponding probationary establishment license.
Fees
Pay applicable permanent-license fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Explain lapse satisfactorily, pass inspection and meet all licensing requirements.
Elapsed Time
after one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late/reinstatement, renewal and inspection fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Explain lapse satisfactorily, pass inspection and meet all licensing requirements.
Elapsed Time
within one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late/reinstatement, renewal and inspection fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing License
Hold the location-specific establishment license.
Renewal
Renew biennially by July 1 and pay fees.
Staff
Maintain qualified licensee in charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Crematory Operator Certificate

Certificate for crematory operators requiring a Board-authorized class on cremation and operating a crematory, applicable fees, and other Board-prescribed requirements.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Training
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 18; submit government-issued identification.
Curriculum
Course covers industry terminology, principles of operation, environmental quality, equipment procedures, handling bodies/packaging remains and exposure control.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Training
Attend a Board-approved crematory or alkaline-hydrolysis operator certification course and submit its completion certificate. Training is an applicant condition, not a separately identified Board licensing examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Status
Previously inactive operator certificate.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Notice
Notify the Board of return to active practice.
Training
Complete the applicable continuing education requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discipline
Meet §30-6-12 good-character, disciplinary-history, reciprocity, fee and other Board requirements.
Prior Certification
Hold a valid, equivalent out-of-state certificate; demonstrate substantially equivalent education and examinations if the original jurisdiction used examinations. Such other-state assessments are applicant conditions.
Training
Submit Board-approved operator course completion as required by 6CSR2 §5.1.3.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Personally appear before the Board or its committee, explain lapse and obtain reinstatement approval.
Fees
Pay reinstatement, late and renewal fees.
Lapse
Certificate erased after more than 90 days past due.
Older Certificate Training
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"Expired pre-July 2003 operators: training","name":"Crematory Operators Qualifications","quote":"Any Crematory operator, licensed prior to July 1, 2003, whose license expires, must take\nand pass an approved Certified Crematory Operator course prior to their license being\nrenewed or reinstated.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"4bd8ea56bb648fee8a15d51e083b411f632ca81409efcb73514b57631bea7f1a"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/61/download?inline","version":"Board implementing instructions retrieved September 30, 2026 UTC"}],"value":"For operators originally licensed before July 1, 2003 whose certificate expires, the Board requires completion of an approved Certified Crematory Operator course before renewal or reinstatement."}

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Certificate
Hold the operator certificate.
Renewal
Apply by July 1 of the biennial renewal period and pay renewal fee.
Training
Complete and document additional operator training when new equipment or changed industry regulation triggers Board requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany that member on an official permanent change of station to a West Virginia military installation.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Establish residence in West Virginia.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive Crematory Operator Certificate

Inactive status for a certified crematory operator requires Board notification and a fee; return to active practice requires notification and completion of continuing education requirements.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Certificate
Hold a crematory operator certificate.
Fees
Pay inactive-status fee.
Practice
Notify the Board that active practice is discontinued.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Appear before the Board or its committee, provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and obtain reinstatement approval.
Existing Status
Inactive operator certificate lapsed and was erased from the register after more than 90 days past due.
Fees
Pay applicable reinstatement, late and renewal fees.
Practice
Remain inactive until satisfying the separate active-practice reactivation conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Status
Maintain inactive certificate and apply for biennial renewal.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Practice
Do not operate until reactivated.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conditional Funeral Director / Embalmer Return-to-Work License

Conditional return-to-work license requiring a written request and return-to-work form; no continuing education is required.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Temporary
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit written request and Return-to-Work form and pay the $50 inactive-license fee.
Continuing Education
No continuing education is required for this conditional license.
Duration
Return to work for no more than six consecutive months, such as covering maternity leave or illness.
Prior License
Previously licensed in West Virginia for at least five years.
Standing
Good standing with no pending disciplinary action.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Courtesy Card

A biennial courtesy card available to licensed funeral directors and licensed embalmers in states bordering West Virginia.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Courtesy
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit Board form and pay fees.
Prior License
Be licensed as both funeral director and embalmer in the jurisdiction of residence; submit verification.
Privileges
Periodically conduct funerals, prepare death certificates and bury remains for an out-of-state funeral establishment; comply with West Virginia law.
Residence
Reside in a jurisdiction bordering West Virginia.
Restrictions
No West Virginia business, office or agency; no employment or contracting as a professional licensee for a West Virginia establishment; no embalming or disinterment in West Virginia.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and demonstrate competency to work as a courtesy card holder.
Elapsed Time
after one year
Fees
Pay the corresponding late or reinstatement fee and current renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and demonstrate competency to work as a courtesy card holder.
Elapsed Time
within one year
Fees
Pay the corresponding late or reinstatement fee and current renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Courtesy card holders are exempt under 6CSR1 §19.4.
Renewal
Renew biennially, verify qualifying licensure/residency and pay fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Crematory License

Required license for crematories in West Virginia, with Board approval and compliance with local building codes and applicable environmental standards.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Notify the Board at least 30 days before opening.
Facility
Satisfy Board approval, local building codes and environmental standards and pass inspection.
Fees
Pay applicable fees and complete other Board requirements.
Location
Separate authorization for each location.
Management
Have a certified operator in charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
The Board determines at its meeting that all applicable facility requirements have been met.
Existing Authorization
Hold the corresponding probationary facility authorization.
Fees
Pay applicable permanent-authorization fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Appear before the Board, provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and pass inspection.
Fees
Pay applicable renewal, reinstatement, late and inspection fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Renewal
Renew biennially by July 1 and pay fees; maintain qualified operator in charge and facility compliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Embalmer License

License to practice embalming issued by the West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners under §30-6-8.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Examination
Additional Board Requirements
Any other examination not resolved by the official sources to an identifiable currently offered examination is an applicant condition under §30-6-8(g)(3), not an invented examination.
Age
At least 18 years old.
Apprenticeship
Complete the one-year funeral service apprenticeship; assist in at least 35 embalmings under direct supervision and 35 funerals under general supervision. Submit case reports and preceptor evaluations. College and mortuary school may precede, accompany or follow apprenticeship.
Criminal History
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Education
An associate degree or at least 60 semester/90 quarter hours toward a baccalaureate degree with a declared major, plus an ABFSE-accredited mortuary science program of at least 12 months; alternatively a bachelor degree in mortuary science from an accredited institution. Submit official transcripts.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Law Score
Pass WV LRR with at least 75%; submit eligibility and score documentation.
National Score
Pass both Arts and Sciences sections at 75%; the Conference examination must be passed before taking the state law examination.
Professional Character
Good moral character under §30-6-10, subject to §30-1-24 for criminal convictions.
Secondary Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Work Eligibility
United States citizenship or eligibility for employment in the United States.
Examination
Additional Board Requirements
Any other examination not resolved by the official sources to an identifiable currently offered examination is an applicant condition under §30-6-8(g)(3), not an invented examination.
Age
At least 18 years old.
Apprenticeship
Complete the one-year funeral service apprenticeship; assist in at least 35 embalmings under direct supervision and 35 funerals under general supervision. Submit case reports and preceptor evaluations. College and mortuary school may precede, accompany or follow apprenticeship.
Criminal History
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-24(b)(1): rational nexus criminal review","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-24","quote":"(1) Boards subject to the requirements of this section may not disqualify an applicant from initial licensure to engage in a profession or occupation because of a prior criminal conviction that remains unreversed unless that conviction is for a crime that bears a rational nexus to the profession or occupation requiring licensure. In determining whether","sourceFile":{"sha256":"8b295733f81a3c5bf94c3a5a5d1795e51110e4986a007a7fa582db1315436383"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-24/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR6 effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Initial licensing criminal-history review follows the rational-nexus standard in §30-1-24 and 6CSR6; disqualification and reapplication are applicant conditions."}
Education
An associate degree or at least 60 semester/90 quarter hours toward a baccalaureate degree with a declared major, plus an ABFSE-accredited mortuary science program of at least 12 months; alternatively a bachelor degree in mortuary science from an accredited institution. Submit official transcripts.
Embalming Experience
Submit the 35-body embalming requirement under §6-1-5.7.3.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Law Score
Pass WV LRR with at least 75%; submit eligibility and score documentation.
National Score
Pass both Arts and Sciences sections at 75%; the Conference examination must be passed before taking the state law examination.
Prior Law Score
The WV LRR required for the held funeral director license remains a currently offered examination leaf; the rule does not expressly require a second sitting for the upgrade.
Prior License
Already hold a West Virginia funeral director license.
Professional Character
Good moral character under §30-6-10, subject to §30-1-24 for criminal convictions.
Secondary Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Upgrade Education
Graduate from an ABFSE-accredited mortuary school.
Work Eligibility
United States citizenship or eligibility for employment in the United States.
Reactivation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Complete and document all continuing education waived during inactive status.
Existing Status
Currently hold the inactive form of this license.
Fees
Pay applicable reactivation fees.
Notice
Notify the Board of intention to resume active practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity
Additional Board Requirements
Any other examination not resolved by the official sources to an identifiable currently offered examination is an applicant condition under §30-6-8(g)(3), not an invented examination.
Age
At least 18 years old.
Apprenticeship
Equivalent apprenticeship may have been served outside West Virginia; submit verification.
Criminal History
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-24(b)(1): rational nexus criminal review","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-24","quote":"(1) Boards subject to the requirements of this section may not disqualify an applicant from initial licensure to engage in a profession or occupation because of a prior criminal conviction that remains unreversed unless that conviction is for a crime that bears a rational nexus to the profession or occupation requiring licensure. In determining whether","sourceFile":{"sha256":"8b295733f81a3c5bf94c3a5a5d1795e51110e4986a007a7fa582db1315436383"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-24/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR6 effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Initial licensing criminal-history review follows the rational-nexus standard in §30-1-24 and 6CSR6; disqualification and reapplication are applicant conditions."}
Education
An associate degree or at least 60 semester/90 quarter hours toward a baccalaureate degree with a declared major, plus an ABFSE-accredited mortuary science program of at least 12 months; alternatively a bachelor degree in mortuary science from an accredited institution. Submit official transcripts.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Law Score
Pass WV LRR with at least 75%; submit eligibility and score documentation.
National Score
Pass both Arts and Sciences sections at 75%; the Conference examination must be passed before taking the state law examination.
Prior License
Hold a valid out-of-state embalming and funeral-directing license or equivalent, in good standing; educational and examination requirements must be substantially equivalent.
Professional Character
Good moral character under §30-6-10, subject to §30-1-24 for criminal convictions.
Reciprocity
The prior licensing jurisdiction provides reciprocal rights; no pending investigation or charges, no revoked license, and no previous failed West Virginia licensing examination; pay application fee and satisfy other Board requirements.
Secondary Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Work Eligibility
United States citizenship or eligibility for employment in the United States.
Reinstatement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons for failing to renew and demonstrate qualifications.
Elapsed Time
License lapsed more than one year ago.
Fees
Pay reinstatement, renewal and examination fees.
Law Score
Pass the Conference-administered WV LRR examination.
Pending Investigation
The Board may deny reinstatement pending resolution of an investigation.
Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Appear before the Board or its authorized committee; provide satisfactory reasons for failing to renew.
Continuing Education
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.1: continuing education requirement","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.1. Licensed Funeral directors and funeral service licensees shall attend approved continuing\neducation programs as a prerequisite to license renewal. A funeral director licensee and a funeral service\nlicensee shall obtain four hours every two years of general funeral service education, in which one of\nthese hours must be in ethics, and two hours every two years of occupational safety or health-related\ntraining. It is the responsibility of the licensee to finance his or her costs of continuing education.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.2: media learning and unnamed testing","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.2. Licensees may get two hours of required continuing education credits through audio or\nvideo media. However, these programs shall be approved in advance, as established in subsection 19.1.\nof this rule. The Board may require the licensee to demonstrate new knowledge of material learned by\nexamination or other means of testing.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"}],"value":"Four hours of general funeral service continuing education every two years, including one ethics hour, plus two hours of occupational safety or health training. The Board may test learning from approved audio/video education; no separate currently identified licensing examination is named for ordinary renewal."}
Elapsed Time
License lapsed no more than one year ago.
Fees
Pay late and current renewal fees.
Pending Investigation
The Board may deny reinstatement pending resolution of an investigation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.1: continuing education requirement","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.1. Licensed Funeral directors and funeral service licensees shall attend approved continuing\neducation programs as a prerequisite to license renewal. A funeral director licensee and a funeral service\nlicensee shall obtain four hours every two years of general funeral service education, in which one of\nthese hours must be in ethics, and two hours every two years of occupational safety or health-related\ntraining. It is the responsibility of the licensee to finance his or her costs of continuing education.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.2: media learning and unnamed testing","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.2. Licensees may get two hours of required continuing education credits through audio or\nvideo media. However, these programs shall be approved in advance, as established in subsection 19.1.\nof this rule. The Board may require the licensee to demonstrate new knowledge of material learned by\nexamination or other means of testing.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"}],"value":"Four hours of general funeral service continuing education every two years, including one ethics hour, plus two hours of occupational safety or health training. The Board may test learning from approved audio/video education; no separate currently identified licensing examination is named for ordinary renewal."}
Deadline
Apply and pay the biennial renewal fee by July 1; late fees apply.
Existing License
Hold the license being renewed.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany that member on an official permanent change of station to a West Virginia military installation.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.
Endorsement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Establish residence in West Virginia.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

Embalmer License Emeritus

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 65 years old.
Existing License
Hold the corresponding active professional license.
Experience
At least ten years of licensed professional experience.
Fees
Pay applicable fee.
Practice Privileges
Retains the rights and privileges of the previously held license; exempt from continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Board Review
Provide satisfactory explanation and qualifications.
Continuing Education
Emeritus status exempts continuing education, not the identified reinstatement examination.
Elapsed Time
Lapsed more than one year.
Fees
Pay applicable reinstatement, renewal and examination fees.
Law Score
The reinstatement provision for funeral directors and funeral service licensees requires the WV LRR examination after one year.
Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Emeritus continuing education exemption remains in §30-6-14(d).
Elapsed Time
Lapsed no more than one year; provide satisfactory explanation to the Board.
Fees
Pay applicable late and renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Exempt from continuing education.
Existing License
Hold the corresponding emeritus license.
Fees
Submit renewal and applicable fees.
Renewal Interval
The Board may not require renewal more frequently than once every four years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive Embalmer License

Inactive status for licensed practitioners who cease active practice; return requires notifying the board and completing continuing education requirements.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Education is temporarily waived and must be made up before resuming active practice.
Existing License
Hold the corresponding professional license.
Fees
Pay inactive-status fees.
Practice
Certify no active practice and agree not to resume before satisfying reactivation criteria.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Board Review
Satisfy the professional-license reinstatement provision; remain inactive until separate activation criteria are met.
Elapsed Time
Inactive professional license lapsed more than one year.
Fees
Pay applicable reinstatement, renewal and examination fees.
Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons and remain inactive.
Elapsed Time
Inactive license lapsed no more than one year.
Fees
Pay applicable late and renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Status
Hold inactive status and remain out of active practice.
Renewal
Renew inactive status biennially and pay applicable fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Funeral Director License

License to practice funeral directing.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Examination
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Apprenticeship
Under controlling §30-6-9 and §30-6-17(c), complete a one-year apprenticeship under a licensee in charge or active licensed funeral director; document at least 35 disposition arrangements and 35 funeral or memorial services in the Board-approved competency log.
Board Apprenticeship Statement
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-5.1: Board two-year statement","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"5.1. The apprenticeship program for a Funeral Director license is of two year duration and consists of\nfull-time employment under the general supervision of a licensee in charge or an active funeral director,\nlicensed by this state and actively practicing within this state.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"Funeral Director Only, item 2: two-year statement","name":"Funeral Director Only Qualifications","quote":"2. Documentation of serving a two (2) year apprenticeship under the supervision of a licensed\nfuneral director. During the apprenticeship, you must assist, under general supervision, in the\narranging of thirty five (35) services and conduct not less than thirty five (35) disposition\nservices.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"98e74ad8540c8843c1cd63e0f17526a5f07947f1d3be4a5439d88d76ed727a78"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/63/download?inline","version":"Board implementing instructions retrieved September 30, 2026 UTC"}],"value":"The pinned April 3, 2026 6CSR1 §5.1 and the Board Funeral Director Only instructions state a two-year apprenticeship. The statute controls the one-year legal requirement; the longer Board demand is recorded for applicants."}
Criminal History
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-24(b)(1): rational nexus criminal review","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-24","quote":"(1) Boards subject to the requirements of this section may not disqualify an applicant from initial licensure to engage in a profession or occupation because of a prior criminal conviction that remains unreversed unless that conviction is for a crime that bears a rational nexus to the profession or occupation requiring licensure. In determining whether","sourceFile":{"sha256":"8b295733f81a3c5bf94c3a5a5d1795e51110e4986a007a7fa582db1315436383"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-24/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR6 effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Initial licensing criminal-history review follows the rational-nexus standard in §30-1-24 and 6CSR6; disqualification and reapplication are applicant conditions."}
Education
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Law Score
Pass WV LRR with an average score of at least 75%.
Reactivation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Complete and document all continuing education waived during inactive status.
Existing Status
Currently hold the inactive form of this license.
Fees
Pay applicable reactivation fees.
Notice
Notify the Board of intention to resume active practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Criminal History
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-24(b)(1): rational nexus criminal review","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-24","quote":"(1) Boards subject to the requirements of this section may not disqualify an applicant from initial licensure to engage in a profession or occupation because of a prior criminal conviction that remains unreversed unless that conviction is for a crime that bears a rational nexus to the profession or occupation requiring licensure. In determining whether","sourceFile":{"sha256":"8b295733f81a3c5bf94c3a5a5d1795e51110e4986a007a7fa582db1315436383"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-24/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR6 effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Initial licensing criminal-history review follows the rational-nexus standard in §30-1-24 and 6CSR6; disqualification and reapplication are applicant conditions."}
Education
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution; submit official transcript.
Experience
The Board instructions require at least two years of active funeral-director licensure, or a one-year apprenticeship followed by one year of active licensure; submit apprenticeship verification.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Law Score
Take and pass the WV LRR examination with at least 75%.
Prior License
Verify licensure in good standing from every licensing jurisdiction.
Reinstatement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons for failing to renew and demonstrate qualifications.
Elapsed Time
License lapsed more than one year ago.
Fees
Pay reinstatement, renewal and examination fees.
Law Score
Pass the Conference-administered WV LRR examination.
Pending Investigation
The Board may deny reinstatement pending resolution of an investigation.
Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Appear before the Board or its authorized committee; provide satisfactory reasons for failing to renew.
Continuing Education
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.1: continuing education requirement","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.1. Licensed Funeral directors and funeral service licensees shall attend approved continuing\neducation programs as a prerequisite to license renewal. A funeral director licensee and a funeral service\nlicensee shall obtain four hours every two years of general funeral service education, in which one of\nthese hours must be in ethics, and two hours every two years of occupational safety or health-related\ntraining. It is the responsibility of the licensee to finance his or her costs of continuing education.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.2: media learning and unnamed testing","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.2. Licensees may get two hours of required continuing education credits through audio or\nvideo media. However, these programs shall be approved in advance, as established in subsection 19.1.\nof this rule. The Board may require the licensee to demonstrate new knowledge of material learned by\nexamination or other means of testing.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"}],"value":"Four hours of general funeral service continuing education every two years, including one ethics hour, plus two hours of occupational safety or health training. The Board may test learning from approved audio/video education; no separate currently identified licensing examination is named for ordinary renewal."}
Elapsed Time
License lapsed no more than one year ago.
Fees
Pay late and current renewal fees.
Pending Investigation
The Board may deny reinstatement pending resolution of an investigation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.1: continuing education requirement","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.1. Licensed Funeral directors and funeral service licensees shall attend approved continuing\neducation programs as a prerequisite to license renewal. A funeral director licensee and a funeral service\nlicensee shall obtain four hours every two years of general funeral service education, in which one of\nthese hours must be in ethics, and two hours every two years of occupational safety or health-related\ntraining. It is the responsibility of the licensee to finance his or her costs of continuing education.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.2: media learning and unnamed testing","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.2. Licensees may get two hours of required continuing education credits through audio or\nvideo media. However, these programs shall be approved in advance, as established in subsection 19.1.\nof this rule. The Board may require the licensee to demonstrate new knowledge of material learned by\nexamination or other means of testing.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"}],"value":"Four hours of general funeral service continuing education every two years, including one ethics hour, plus two hours of occupational safety or health training. The Board may test learning from approved audio/video education; no separate currently identified licensing examination is named for ordinary renewal."}
Deadline
Apply and pay the biennial renewal fee by July 1; late fees apply.
Existing License
Hold the license being renewed.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany that member on an official permanent change of station to a West Virginia military installation.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.
Endorsement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Establish residence in West Virginia.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

funeral director emeritus

Emeritus funeral director license retaining prior license rights and privileges and exempt from continuing education.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 65 years old.
Existing License
Hold the corresponding active professional license.
Experience
At least ten years of licensed professional experience.
Fees
Pay applicable fee.
Practice Privileges
Retains the rights and privileges of the previously held license; exempt from continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Board Review
Provide satisfactory explanation and qualifications.
Continuing Education
Emeritus status exempts continuing education, not the identified reinstatement examination.
Elapsed Time
Lapsed more than one year.
Fees
Pay applicable reinstatement, renewal and examination fees.
Law Score
The reinstatement provision for funeral directors and funeral service licensees requires the WV LRR examination after one year.
Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Emeritus continuing education exemption remains in §30-6-14(d).
Elapsed Time
Lapsed no more than one year; provide satisfactory explanation to the Board.
Fees
Pay applicable late and renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Exempt from continuing education.
Existing License
Hold the corresponding emeritus license.
Fees
Submit renewal and applicable fees.
Renewal Interval
The Board may not require renewal more frequently than once every four years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive Funeral Director License

Inactive status for an existing funeral director license, temporarily waiving continuing education while prohibiting practice until activation requirements are met and requiring biennial renewal.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Education is temporarily waived and must be made up before resuming active practice.
Existing License
Hold the corresponding professional license.
Fees
Pay inactive-status fees.
Practice
Certify no active practice and agree not to resume before satisfying reactivation criteria.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Board Review
Satisfy the professional-license reinstatement provision; remain inactive until separate activation criteria are met.
Elapsed Time
Inactive professional license lapsed more than one year.
Fees
Pay applicable reinstatement, renewal and examination fees.
Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons and remain inactive.
Elapsed Time
Inactive license lapsed no more than one year.
Fees
Pay applicable late and renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Status
Hold inactive status and remain out of active practice.
Renewal
Renew inactive status biennially and pay applicable fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Funeral Service License

License to practice embalming and funeral directing.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Examination
Additional Board Requirements
Any other examination not resolved by the official sources to an identifiable currently offered examination is an applicant condition under §30-6-8(g)(3), not an invented examination.
Age
At least 18 years old.
Apprenticeship
Complete the one-year funeral service apprenticeship; assist in at least 35 embalmings under direct supervision and 35 funerals under general supervision. Submit case reports and preceptor evaluations. College and mortuary school may precede, accompany or follow apprenticeship.
Criminal History
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Education
An associate degree or at least 60 semester/90 quarter hours toward a baccalaureate degree with a declared major, plus an ABFSE-accredited mortuary science program of at least 12 months; alternatively a bachelor degree in mortuary science from an accredited institution. Submit official transcripts.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Law Score
Pass WV LRR with at least 75%; submit eligibility and score documentation.
National Score
Pass both Arts and Sciences sections at 75%; the Conference examination must be passed before taking the state law examination.
Professional Character
Good moral character under §30-6-10, subject to §30-1-24 for criminal convictions.
Secondary Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Work Eligibility
United States citizenship or eligibility for employment in the United States.
Examination
Additional Board Requirements
Any other examination not resolved by the official sources to an identifiable currently offered examination is an applicant condition under §30-6-8(g)(3), not an invented examination.
Age
At least 18 years old.
Apprenticeship
Complete the one-year funeral service apprenticeship; assist in at least 35 embalmings under direct supervision and 35 funerals under general supervision. Submit case reports and preceptor evaluations. College and mortuary school may precede, accompany or follow apprenticeship.
Criminal History
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-24(b)(1): rational nexus criminal review","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-24","quote":"(1) Boards subject to the requirements of this section may not disqualify an applicant from initial licensure to engage in a profession or occupation because of a prior criminal conviction that remains unreversed unless that conviction is for a crime that bears a rational nexus to the profession or occupation requiring licensure. In determining whether","sourceFile":{"sha256":"8b295733f81a3c5bf94c3a5a5d1795e51110e4986a007a7fa582db1315436383"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-24/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR6 effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Initial licensing criminal-history review follows the rational-nexus standard in §30-1-24 and 6CSR6; disqualification and reapplication are applicant conditions."}
Education
An associate degree or at least 60 semester/90 quarter hours toward a baccalaureate degree with a declared major, plus an ABFSE-accredited mortuary science program of at least 12 months; alternatively a bachelor degree in mortuary science from an accredited institution. Submit official transcripts.
Embalming Experience
Submit the 35-body embalming requirement under §6-1-5.7.3.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Law Score
Pass WV LRR with at least 75%; submit eligibility and score documentation.
National Score
Pass both Arts and Sciences sections at 75%; the Conference examination must be passed before taking the state law examination.
Prior Law Score
The WV LRR required for the held funeral director license remains a currently offered examination leaf; the rule does not expressly require a second sitting for the upgrade.
Prior License
Already hold a West Virginia funeral director license.
Professional Character
Good moral character under §30-6-10, subject to §30-1-24 for criminal convictions.
Secondary Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Upgrade Education
Graduate from an ABFSE-accredited mortuary school.
Work Eligibility
United States citizenship or eligibility for employment in the United States.
Reactivation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Complete and document all continuing education waived during inactive status.
Existing Status
Currently hold the inactive form of this license.
Fees
Pay applicable reactivation fees.
Notice
Notify the Board of intention to resume active practice.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity
Additional Board Requirements
Any other examination not resolved by the official sources to an identifiable currently offered examination is an applicant condition under §30-6-8(g)(3), not an invented examination.
Age
At least 18 years old.
Apprenticeship
Equivalent apprenticeship may have been served outside West Virginia; submit verification.
Criminal History
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-24(b)(1): rational nexus criminal review","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-24","quote":"(1) Boards subject to the requirements of this section may not disqualify an applicant from initial licensure to engage in a profession or occupation because of a prior criminal conviction that remains unreversed unless that conviction is for a crime that bears a rational nexus to the profession or occupation requiring licensure. In determining whether","sourceFile":{"sha256":"8b295733f81a3c5bf94c3a5a5d1795e51110e4986a007a7fa582db1315436383"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-24/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR6 effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Initial licensing criminal-history review follows the rational-nexus standard in §30-1-24 and 6CSR6; disqualification and reapplication are applicant conditions."}
Education
An associate degree or at least 60 semester/90 quarter hours toward a baccalaureate degree with a declared major, plus an ABFSE-accredited mortuary science program of at least 12 months; alternatively a bachelor degree in mortuary science from an accredited institution. Submit official transcripts.
Fee Waiver
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"statute","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§30-1-23(b): initial fee waiver","name":"West Virginia Code §30-1-23","quote":"(b) Each board or licensing authority referred to in this chapter shall waive all initial occupational licensing fees for the following classes of individuals:\n\n(1) Low-income individuals; and\n\n(2) Military families.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"65411339153e1b31f3c6287d7acc2876edf3810ae7e0da74a94e65af3d88d3ed"},"url":"https://code.wvlegislature.gov/30-1-23/","version":"Current official code; implementing 6CSR5 effective April 30, 2020"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-5-3.1: fee waiver implementation","name":"6CSR5: Application for Waiver of Initial Licensing Fees for Certain Individuals","quote":"3.1. The Board may issue a license to an applicant who meets the requirements of W. Va. Code\n §30-6-10 et seq. and the rules promulgated by the Board, and the Board shall waive the initial licensure fee if the\n applicant qualifies as a “low-income individual” or as a member of one or more “military families” as defined in this\n rule.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"3572a9aa25db05003f6250448c9678c0f991ccdc0ef22f199700ea826554c8d1"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/16/download?inline","version":"Effective April 30, 2020"}],"value":"Submit the Board waiver form and supporting eligibility documents; the Board processes a complete application within 30 days."}
Fees
Submit the application and pay applicable fees; eligible low-income individuals and military families may seek the statutory initial licensing fee waiver.
Law Score
Pass WV LRR with at least 75%; submit eligibility and score documentation.
National Score
Pass both Arts and Sciences sections at 75%; the Conference examination must be passed before taking the state law examination.
Prior License
Hold a valid out-of-state embalming and funeral-directing license or equivalent, in good standing; educational and examination requirements must be substantially equivalent.
Professional Character
Good moral character under §30-6-10, subject to §30-1-24 for criminal convictions.
Reciprocity
The prior licensing jurisdiction provides reciprocal rights; no pending investigation or charges, no revoked license, and no previous failed West Virginia licensing examination; pay application fee and satisfy other Board requirements.
Secondary Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Work Eligibility
United States citizenship or eligibility for employment in the United States.
Reinstatement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons for failing to renew and demonstrate qualifications.
Elapsed Time
License lapsed more than one year ago.
Fees
Pay reinstatement, renewal and examination fees.
Law Score
Pass the Conference-administered WV LRR examination.
Pending Investigation
The Board may deny reinstatement pending resolution of an investigation.
Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Appear before the Board or its authorized committee; provide satisfactory reasons for failing to renew.
Continuing Education
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.1: continuing education requirement","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.1. Licensed Funeral directors and funeral service licensees shall attend approved continuing\neducation programs as a prerequisite to license renewal. A funeral director licensee and a funeral service\nlicensee shall obtain four hours every two years of general funeral service education, in which one of\nthese hours must be in ethics, and two hours every two years of occupational safety or health-related\ntraining. It is the responsibility of the licensee to finance his or her costs of continuing education.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.2: media learning and unnamed testing","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.2. Licensees may get two hours of required continuing education credits through audio or\nvideo media. However, these programs shall be approved in advance, as established in subsection 19.1.\nof this rule. The Board may require the licensee to demonstrate new knowledge of material learned by\nexamination or other means of testing.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"}],"value":"Four hours of general funeral service continuing education every two years, including one ethics hour, plus two hours of occupational safety or health training. The Board may test learning from approved audio/video education; no separate currently identified licensing examination is named for ordinary renewal."}
Elapsed Time
License lapsed no more than one year ago.
Fees
Pay late and current renewal fees.
Pending Investigation
The Board may deny reinstatement pending resolution of an investigation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
{"sources":[{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.1: continuing education requirement","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.1. Licensed Funeral directors and funeral service licensees shall attend approved continuing\neducation programs as a prerequisite to license renewal. A funeral director licensee and a funeral service\nlicensee shall obtain four hours every two years of general funeral service education, in which one of\nthese hours must be in ethics, and two hours every two years of occupational safety or health-related\ntraining. It is the responsibility of the licensee to finance his or her costs of continuing education.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"},{"carrierClass":"implementation","checkedAt":"2026-09-30","locator":"§6-1-19.3.2: media learning and unnamed testing","name":"6CSR1: Funeral Director, Embalmer, Apprentice, Courtesy Card Holders and Funeral Establishment Requirements","quote":"19.3.2. Licensees may get two hours of required continuing education credits through audio or\nvideo media. However, these programs shall be approved in advance, as established in subsection 19.1.\nof this rule. The Board may require the licensee to demonstrate new knowledge of material learned by\nexamination or other means of testing.","sourceFile":{"sha256":"78aebcc7c6b8a97816bbd2ee994812e3eec109b9cc369472192074f2d85157b0"},"url":"https://wvfuneralboard.wv.gov/media/213/download?inline=","version":"Effective April 3, 2026"}],"value":"Four hours of general funeral service continuing education every two years, including one ethics hour, plus two hours of occupational safety or health training. The Board may test learning from approved audio/video education; no separate currently identified licensing examination is named for ordinary renewal."}
Deadline
Apply and pay the biennial renewal fee by July 1; late fees apply.
Existing License
Hold the license being renewed.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Be married to an active-duty United States armed-forces member and accompany that member on an official permanent change of station to a West Virginia military installation.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.
Endorsement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Criminal History
No disqualifying criminal history as determined by the Board.
Discipline
No revocation or surrender while under investigation; other discipline must be corrected and fully resolved before the Board acts.
Eligibility
Establish residence in West Virginia.
Fees
Pay applicable fees.
Law Examination Discretion
Section 30-1-27(d) permits the Board to require its examination specific to West Virginia law; it does not impose the national examinations required on the ordinary examination route.
Practice Level
The Board determines the matching discipline and practice level.
Prior Examinations
Have previously passed examinations required for the prior-state license, if that state required them; §30-1-27(b)(5) names no particular national examination.
Prior License
Currently licensed, registered or certified in the same discipline and at the same practice level in at least one other state; good standing in all licensing jurisdictions.
Prior Qualifications
The original state had minimum education and, if applicable, work-experience and clinical-supervision requirements, and verifies they were met.

funeral service licensee emeritus

Emeritus license retaining the rights and privileges of the previously held license, with exemption from all continuing education requirements.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 65 years old.
Existing License
Hold the corresponding active professional license.
Experience
At least ten years of licensed professional experience.
Fees
Pay applicable fee.
Practice Privileges
Retains the rights and privileges of the previously held license; exempt from continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Board Review
Provide satisfactory explanation and qualifications.
Continuing Education
Emeritus status exempts continuing education, not the identified reinstatement examination.
Elapsed Time
Lapsed more than one year.
Fees
Pay applicable reinstatement, renewal and examination fees.
Law Score
The reinstatement provision for funeral directors and funeral service licensees requires the WV LRR examination after one year.
Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Emeritus continuing education exemption remains in §30-6-14(d).
Elapsed Time
Lapsed no more than one year; provide satisfactory explanation to the Board.
Fees
Pay applicable late and renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Exempt from continuing education.
Existing License
Hold the corresponding emeritus license.
Fees
Submit renewal and applicable fees.
Renewal Interval
The Board may not require renewal more frequently than once every four years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive Funeral Service License

Inactive status for funeral service licensees, with temporarily waived continuing education, biennial renewal, and no licensed practice until activation requirements are met.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Inactive
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
Education is temporarily waived and must be made up before resuming active practice.
Existing License
Hold the corresponding professional license.
Fees
Pay inactive-status fees.
Practice
Certify no active practice and agree not to resume before satisfying reactivation criteria.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination
Board Review
Satisfy the professional-license reinstatement provision; remain inactive until separate activation criteria are met.
Elapsed Time
Inactive professional license lapsed more than one year.
Fees
Pay applicable reinstatement, renewal and examination fees.
Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Provide satisfactory reasons and remain inactive.
Elapsed Time
Inactive license lapsed no more than one year.
Fees
Pay applicable late and renewal fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing Status
Hold inactive status and remain out of active practice.
Renewal
Renew inactive status biennially and pay applicable fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

certification for alkaline hydrolysis of human remains

A Board certificate is required to hydrolyze human remains; except as otherwise provided by the article, crematory licensing requirements and fees apply.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Notify the Board at least 30 days before opening.
Facility
Satisfy Board approval, local building codes and environmental standards and pass inspection.
Fees
Pay applicable fees and complete other Board requirements.
Location
Separate authorization for each location.
Management
Have a certified operator in charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
The Board determines at its meeting that all applicable facility requirements have been met.
Existing Authorization
Hold the corresponding probationary facility authorization.
Fees
Pay applicable permanent-authorization fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Appear before the Board, provide satisfactory reasons for lapse and pass inspection.
Fees
Pay applicable renewal, reinstatement, late and inspection fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Renewal
Renew biennially by July 1 and pay fees; maintain qualified operator in charge and facility compliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Main Funeral Establishment License

License to operate a primary funeral establishment.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional Requirements
Complete other Board requirements; staff credentials are applicant/facility conditions.
Application
Apply before opening and notify the Board at least 30 days before proposed opening for inspection.
Facility Form
Main Funeral Establishment License
Fees
Pay applicable licensing and inspection fees.
Inspection
Pass the Board inspection and satisfy facility/equipment/public-health requirements.
Location
Separate license for each specific street address.
Management
Employ the qualified licensee in charge required by §30-6-19. From July 1, 2026, the statute allows up to two years to complete the listed credentials. The preneed license is required if the establishment offers or sells preneed contracts.
Mortuary Restriction
Follow the provisions applicable to this facility form.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
The Board determines at its meeting that all establishment requirements have been met.
Existing Authorization
Hold the corresponding probationary establishment license.
Fees
Pay applicable permanent-license fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Explain lapse satisfactorily, pass inspection and meet all licensing requirements.
Elapsed Time
after one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late/reinstatement, renewal and inspection fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Explain lapse satisfactorily, pass inspection and meet all licensing requirements.
Elapsed Time
within one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late/reinstatement, renewal and inspection fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing License
Hold the location-specific establishment license.
Renewal
Renew biennially by July 1 and pay fees.
Staff
Maintain qualified licensee in charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Mortuary Service License

License for a funeral establishment devoted strictly to preparing and embalming dead human bodies; public funeral services are prohibited.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Restoration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a written application for reinstatement under §30-6-26.
Board Review
Demonstrate qualifications to resume practice and satisfy the Board procedures and individual disciplinary order. Case-specific Board discretion and proof of qualifications are applicant conditions, not an invented examination.
Existing Authorization
Previously held this license, certificate or registration, which the Board suspended, revoked or refused to renew.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Facility
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional Requirements
Complete other Board requirements; staff credentials are applicant/facility conditions.
Application
Apply before opening and notify the Board at least 30 days before proposed opening for inspection.
Facility Form
Mortuary Service License
Fees
Pay applicable licensing and inspection fees.
Inspection
Pass the Board inspection and satisfy facility/equipment/public-health requirements.
Location
Separate license for each specific street address.
Management
Employ the qualified licensee in charge required by §30-6-19. From July 1, 2026, the statute allows up to two years to complete the listed credentials. The preneed license is required if the establishment offers or sells preneed contracts.
Mortuary Restriction
Mortuary/trade-service establishments prepare and embalm bodies and may not offer public funeral services.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
The Board determines at its meeting that all establishment requirements have been met.
Existing Authorization
Hold the corresponding probationary establishment license.
Fees
Pay applicable permanent-license fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Explain lapse satisfactorily, pass inspection and meet all licensing requirements.
Elapsed Time
after one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late/reinstatement, renewal and inspection fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Explain lapse satisfactorily, pass inspection and meet all licensing requirements.
Elapsed Time
within one year
Fees
Pay corresponding late/reinstatement, renewal and inspection fees.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing License
Hold the location-specific establishment license.
Renewal
Renew biennially by July 1 and pay fees.
Staff
Maintain qualified licensee in charge.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

certificate of authority

Certificate required to sell, make available or be a provider of a preneed funeral contract.

Licensing authority: Office of the West Virginia Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division · Application information

Preneed
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the Division application and fee, owner information, experience, financial ability/stability/integrity, proposed contracts and existing contract/fund information.
Approval
Division must be satisfied the applicant can negotiate and, if a provider, fulfill the contracts; investigation must not warrant denial.
Separate Seller License
Individuals selling contracts must obtain the separate License to Sell for their location.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit sworn renewal application, applicable fee, and required contract/fund reporting.
Renewal
Annual certificate renewal; controlling §47-14-3(f) expires the certificate June 30 following issuance. The older rule §4.4 specifies December 31; the statute controls.
Reporting
The statute requires a biennial report of outstanding contracts; the older 142CSR8 refers to annual reporting.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Probationary Crematory License

A ninety-day probationary license for a crematory meeting all applicable requirements, pending consideration at the next scheduled board meeting, with no probationary-license fee.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Probationary
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
90-day probationary crematory license pending next Board meeting.
Eligibility
Meet all crematory licensing requirements, including inspection and qualified operator in charge.
Fees
No separate fee for the probationary license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Probationary Funeral Establishment License

A 90-day probationary license for a funeral establishment meeting statutory and rule requirements, pending consideration at the next scheduled Board meeting.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Probationary
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Additional Requirements
Complete other Board requirements; staff credentials are applicant/facility conditions.
Application
Apply before opening and notify the Board at least 30 days before proposed opening for inspection.
Duration
90-day probationary facility license pending Board review at the next scheduled meeting.
Eligibility
Meet all establishment licensing requirements; this is a facility authorization, not a professional examination.
Fees
Pay applicable licensing and inspection fees.
Inspection
Pass the Board inspection and satisfy facility/equipment/public-health requirements.
Location
Separate license for each specific street address.
Management
Employ the qualified licensee in charge required by §30-6-19. From July 1, 2026, the statute allows up to two years to complete the listed credentials. The preneed license is required if the establishment offers or sells preneed contracts.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Provisional Licensee-in-Charge Authority

Discretionary authority for an eligible licensee to serve as licensee in charge for up to 90 days following a vacancy, while credentials are obtained or a new licensee in charge is designated.

Licensing authority: West Virginia Board of Funeral Service Examiners · Application information

Provisional
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Discretion
Grant is discretionary; existing professional and operator/preneed credentials are applicant conditions.
Duration
Up to 90 days while required credentials are obtained or a new licensee in charge is designated.
Eligibility
Board-approved eligible licensee.
Trigger
Vacancy of the licensee-in-charge position.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

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

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

west virginia laws, rules and regulations (wv lrr) examination

Provider
The International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards
Format
Multiple-choice written examination
Passing score
75%
Examination outline
  • State laws governing the conduct and responsibilities of embalmers and funeral directors and funeral establishments
  • State laws governing the pre-need sale of funeral services and merchandise
  • The Rules of the Board
  • State laws governing sales tax
  • The Federal Occupational Safety and Health Act
  • The Americans with Disabilities Act
  • The Federal Trade Commission, Funeral Industry Practices Rule
Examination sources