Learning how to become a funeral director in New York starts with understanding the licensing system built around education, testing, and supervised training.
New York’s licensing pathway is thorough and highly organized, making it especially attractive to students who prefer a clearly defined route into a profession built on public confidence and responsibility.
In This Article:
You will learn the process New York follows to license funeral directors, including:
- Education standards
- Required exam
- Residency training
- Final steps to state approval
Becoming a Funeral Director In New York
Choosing to become a licensed funeral director in New York means entering a profession shaped by defined standards and long-standing oversight. The state’s approach blends academic preparation with practical experience to prepare professionals for the realities of serving families in difficult moments.
New York funeral service licensing follows a logical progression that rewards preparation and commitment. This article serves as a roadmap for becoming a funeral director in New York, outlining each requirement in the order most students complete them.
Understand New York’s Funeral Director Requirements
New York regulates funeral services through the New York State Department of Health’s New York Bureau of Funeral Directing, which oversees education approval, examinations, residency training, and license issuance.
New York funeral director requirements revolve around three core components that outline what candidates must learn and demonstrate:
- Formal education in funeral service or mortuary science
- Successful completion of required licensing examinations
- A registered, supervised residency in a funeral home
Applicants must satisfy state criteria for examination eligibility and residency approval before submitting a license application. Planning ahead around these benchmarks helps students move through the process without delays.
Complete An Accredited Funeral Service Education Program
NY funeral director education begins with completing a college-level funeral service program accepted by the state of New York. The state requires at least 60 semester credits of coursework or an associate degree in funeral service from an approved institution.
Students pursuing a New York mortuary science degree study a mix of scientific and professional subjects.
Typical Coursework for a New York Mortuary Science Degree:
- Embalming
- Restorative art
- Anatomy
- Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Funeral directing
- Ethics
- Grief counseling
- Merchandising
- Accounting
- Business law
Practical Experience:
- Practicum in preparation room protocols
- Hands-on training in professional conduct and funeral service operations
Many students choose programs accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education because accreditation aligns academic content with national licensure expectations.
The American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service Education (AAMI) is listed by ABFSE as an accredited program serving New York students and the surrounding region.
Graduates finish their programs with classroom learning that connects directly to the practical duties they will handle in a funeral home setting.
Pass The National Board Exam & New York State Exams
After graduation, candidates must pass licensing examinations. New York applicants have to take funeral director exams, including the National Board Examination and a separate New York law-focused exam.
The National Board Examination is divided into two separate sections, each designed to evaluate a different dimension of a candidate’s knowledge and readiness:
- Arts
- Sciences
Each section is scored independently and reflects entry-level professional knowledge, and topics range from funeral arranging and counseling to embalming theory and restorative practices. Programs aligned with ABFSE standards, such as the AAMI funeral director program, teach the same subject framework used by the exam.
New York accepts National Board Examination certification for the primary licensing exam; however, the state still requires a separate exam focused on New York laws and regulations. Passing both assessments is required before residency completion and licensure.
Complete The New York Residency Program
New York funeral internship requirements include a one-year registered residency under a licensed funeral director. This residency functions as a full-time, supervised training period in an approved funeral firm.
During residency, trainees develop practical abilities that cannot be learned fully in the classroom. Often, trainees gain direct experience in the following areas:
- Assisting with arrangement conferences and family communication
- Participating in preparation room procedures under supervision
- Coordinating services with cemeteries and crematories
- Learning recordkeeping, permits, and compliance practices
Employers frequently view residency performance as a strong indicator of readiness for independent practice.
Apply For Your New York Funeral Director License
Once candidates finish their academic coursework, pass the required examinations, and complete their residency training, they gather and submit all supporting documents to the New York State Department of Health for review.
New York funeral service licensing applications require proof of graduation, exam results, and residency verification.
Applicants may need to provide supporting records for identity or background review, depending on their individual circumstances. Once licensed, funeral directors must follow state registration and renewal schedules.
Continuing education is commonly required to maintain active status, including coursework related to New York law.
Begin Your Funeral Service Education With AAMI
For students researching how to become a funeral director in New York, selecting the right school shapes every later step. AAMI offers an accredited associate degree in funeral service designed to align with New York’s licensure structure while supporting flexible learning needs.
Students benefit from a reputation built on academic standards, professional preparation, and consistent student support. Graduates from AAMI enter the field with education that matches state expectations and employer needs.
Learn more about starting your professional path through the AAMI funeral director program by visiting AAMI.edu and taking the first step toward a rewarding licensed career in New York funeral service.