Embalmer

Embalming is the art and science of preserving human remains by treating them (in their modern form with chemicals) to forestall decomposition. The intention is to keep the deceased suitable for public visitation at a funeral, for religious reasons, or medical and scientific purposes, such as their use as anatomical specimens.

Requirements

Licensing Requirements

1. A color copy of an official photo identification issued by a governmental agency, such as a valid (permanent, current, unexpired, legible) driver’s license, U.S. passport, or federal, state, county, or city employee I.D. card showing the individual's date of birth and address.

2. Two (2) letters of recommendation by a licensed funeral director and/or embalmer, which attest to the good moral character and competence of the applicant. Such letters shall be signed and dated on printed stationery.

3. Certification of Completion of Apprenticeship form. This form can be found on the Forms and Downloads page.

a. The applicant for a funeral director license has completed not less than one (1) year of apprenticeship as a bona fide paid employee of an establishment working not less than thirty-two (32) hours per week in the presence of and under the direction and supervision of a licensed embalmer as evidenced by the applicant submitting quarterly reports of apprenticeship training within the allotted time throughout the duration of the apprenticeship.

Education and Examination Requirements

1. An official transcript evidencing an Associate of Arts degree by successful completion of a mortuary science program consisting of not less than sixty (60) semester hours, ninety (90) quarter hours or the equivalent, with a program accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education

2. National Board Exam (Science) passing score of 75.

3. Tennessee Laws, Rules & Regulations Exam passing score of 75.

Other Requirements

If you answered YES to the felony/misdemeanor question involving moral turpitude, you must attach a written statement explaining the circumstances of each incident. A copy of the official document(s) that demonstrate the resolution of the charge(s) or any final judgment(s) must also be included.
 

Application & Fees

Complete the “Initial Embalmer License” application online at core.tn.gov.  The fee for the initial application is $435.
 

Renewal Information

Renewals are done online through your CORE account. The renewal fee is $235.

You must submit with the license renewal application satisfactory proof of having completed a minimum of ten (10) hours of continuing education coursework during the licensing period. The Board must approve all coursework for credit to be awarded.

Note that if you have a Funeral Director/Embalmer license, only ten (10) hours of continuing education are necessary, and it will cover both licenses.

The grace period for your license is 90 days. You are charged a late fee of $200 if renewing within the grace period.