Career roadmap
How to Become a Funeral Director
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a funeral director, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a funeral director: (1) earn a mortuary science degree, (2) complete an apprenticeship, (3) pass the National Board Exam, (4) get licensed, (5) advance. Most people need about 2–4 years including apprenticeship. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a funeral director
Earn a mortuary science degree
Choose an accredited program.
Complete an apprenticeship
Work under a licensed director.
Pass the National Board Exam
And any state exams.
Get licensed
Apply in your state.
Advance
Manage or own a funeral home.
Education and training requirements
Funeral directors typically complete an associate degree in mortuary science from an ABFSE-accredited program, an apprenticeship and the National Board Exam, then get a state license.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 2–4 years including apprenticeship |
Certifications and licenses
- State funeral director license: Required in every state.
- National Board Exam: International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards exam.
- Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP): Professional credential.
- Crematory operator certification: Training for crematory operations.
Skills to build now
Start with funeral planning, legal documentation, and mortuary science, and practice compassion and composure. Learning the funeral director vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Funeral Service Apprentice: Learn under a director.
- Licensed Funeral Director: Serve families.
- Funeral Home Manager: Run operations.
- Funeral Home Owner: Own a business.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Funeral Director training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a funeral director?
Often two to four years, including school and apprenticeship.
How long does it take to become a funeral director?
Most people need about 2–4 years including apprenticeship of training. Funeral directors typically complete an associate degree in mortuary science from an ABFSE-accredited program, an apprenticeship and the National Board Exam, then get a state license.
Do you need a degree to be a funeral director?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education, plus long-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for funeral directors?
Common credentials include State funeral director license, National Board Exam, Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP), and Crematory operator certification. Every state licenses funeral directors, typically requiring mortuary science education, an apprenticeship and exams.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 39-4031 (Morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.