It’s no secret that the funeral industry — like so many U.S. industries — is facing a worker shortage. The good news is that colleges specializing in funeral service education have shown a steady increase in enrollment numbers.
As a result, getting your Illinois funeral director license is a wise investment. Here’s what you need to know about how to become a mortician — and why now is a smart time to do so.
Increasing and Evolving Enrollment Numbers
Currently, 58 accredited mortuary institutions and programs operate across America. Per the American Board of Funeral Service Education, enrollment increased by almost 25% in 2021 compared to 2020. Subsequent years’ rates have continued to climb.
This jump comes none too soon — more than 60% of funeral directors say they plan to retire within the next five years. Furthermore, more women are graduating from funeral service education programs in a traditionally male-dominated industry. In fact, women make up about 65% of recent graduate numbers.
[Related: Compassion Fatigue in Funeral Directors]
How To Become a Funeral Director in Illinois: Requirements
More than 20,000 people are members of the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA). In terms of how to become a funeral director, each state has its own requirements.
In Illinois, the Funeral Directors and Embalmers Licensing and Disciplinary Board oversees funeral director licensing and regulations. To be licensed in the state, you must meet these criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Complete one academic year (successfully) at a college or university.
- Complete a minimum one-year funeral direction and embalming course (successfully) at a state-approved institution.
- Study for at least one year under an Illinois licensed funeral director, working as an intern during your time there.
- Be well-versed in all approved measures to prevent the spread of disease.
- Be properly protected against communicable diseases via medical community-approved and adopted means.
- Pass an Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) exam.
Learn more about how to become a mortician in Illinois, see applications and explore licensing at the IDFPR.
[Related: The COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Impact on Funeral Home Directors]
What To Do When Licensing Problems Arise
However, issues can arise before, during and after your funeral director application process.
For example, the IDFPR may deny your license due to criminal history or sister-state discipline. You may encounter other problems throughout the application stage, such as receiving a notice that your application is incomplete.
Additionally, the Funeral Directors and Embalmers Licensing and Disciplinary Board sets rules and regulations that you must follow after you’re licensed. This is also the board that investigates any complaints you face as a funeral director.
When you run into any hurdles, work with attorneys who deeply understand IDFPR guidelines and funeral industry-specific legislation.
[Related: Issues Pertaining to the Funeral Industry]
Protect Your Illinois Funeral Director License With Williams & Nickl
At Williams & Nickl, we’re here for you if you need legal assistance with your Illinois funeral director license.
We’re thoroughly knowledgeable in IDFPR guidelines for morticians, embalmers and funeral directors. Attorney Ed Williams is the former chief of prosecutions for the IDFPR, so we know its procedures inside and out.
Call us at 312-335-9470 or contact us online today for a free one-hour consultation. We’ll review your situation and advise on your next steps.
See our testimonials to discover how we’ve helped applicants and licensees like you.
