Licensure, Registration, and Renewal Requirements
Domain 2 tests eligibility, credentials, and the maintenance of each license. Kentucky licenses individuals (funeral director, embalmer) and establishments, and registers preneed sellers or agents and apprentices.
Initial credentials
- At least 18 years old, good moral character, and a high school diploma or GED.
- Completion of an accredited mortuary science program for the embalmer or funeral director track.
- A registered apprenticeship under a licensed sponsor, with the required hours actually documented.
- Passage of the Board-approved examination; reciprocity requires proof of equivalent licensure.
- An establishment license requires a licensed funeral director in charge and facility compliance.
Renewal and changes
- Renewal is periodic; fees and continuing education must be current. Practicing on a lapsed license is unlicensed practice.
- Report changes in name, address, ownership, and director in charge.
- Apprentices must be registered before hours count.
Worked example
An embalmer from another state has five years' experience. She cannot pay a fee and begin work. She files a reciprocity application, documents education and licensure, and obtains Kentucky credentials. Her employer's establishment license does not license her personally.
Traps
- Assuming the establishment license covers employees.
- Letting continuing education lapse while continuing to embalm.
- Counting apprenticeship hours before registration.
- Failing to report an ownership change.