California Funeral Director Licensing & Regulations
Complete guide to California funeral director licensing requirements, Cemetery and Funeral Bureau regulations, continuing education, and death certificate filing procedures.
California Funeral Director Licensing Requirements
Licensing Authority
The Cemetery and Funeral Bureau, under the Department of Consumer Affairs, regulates funeral directors and embalmers in California.
Education Requirements
Associate's degree or 60 units from accredited college, plus successful completion of funeral service education program.
Death Certificate Filing
Death certificates must be filed within 8 days using California's Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS).
License Renewal Fees
Funeral director renewal: $380; Embalmer renewal: $190. Both licenses must be renewed according to state schedule.
California Funeral Service License Types
Funeral Director License
Associate's degree or 60 units, pass examinations on death determination and laws
Embalmer License
Complete approved embalming program, pass examination
Apprentice Embalmer
Work under licensed embalmer supervision, complete required training hours
California Death Certificate Filing Requirements
California requires death certificates to be filed within 8 days using the Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS).
Key Filing Information
California Regulatory Framework
Cemetery and Funeral Bureau
Primary regulatory authority under the Department of Consumer Affairs, responsible for licensing and oversight.
Examination Requirements
Must pass examinations on death determination, laws and regulations, and health ordinances.
Educational Standards
Associate's degree or 60 units plus completion of approved funeral service education program required.
Additional California Resources
Important links and resources for California funeral service professionals.
Regulatory Contacts
Key Requirements
California Funeral Regulations FAQ
What education is required to become a funeral director in California?
California requires either an Associate's degree or completion of at least 60 units from an accredited college, plus successful completion of a funeral service education program.
What examinations must be passed for California licensing?
Applicants must pass examinations on death determination, laws and regulations governing the practice of funeral directing, and health ordinances related to the practice.
How long do I have to file a death certificate in California?
Death certificates must be filed within 8 days using the Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS) in California.
What are the renewal fees for California funeral directors?
Funeral director license renewal costs $380, while embalmer license renewal costs $190 in California.