How to Get a Funeral Director License in Colorado
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Colorado is a competitive market driven by Denver's growth and the state's outdoor lifestyle appeal, making it an excellent place to start a career as a funeral director. Licensing in Colorado is overseen by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). The process requires 0 hours of pre-license education and costs between $500 and $500 in total. You'll need to pass the None — no state license required (administered by Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA)) with a score of at least 70%.
Colorado requires just 0 hours of pre-license education — one of the lowest requirements in the nation. The total cost is relatively affordable at $500 to $500, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring funeral directors complete the entire process in 4-8 weeks, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
Colorado Funeral Director License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 0 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 0 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — None — no state license required |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | No |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $0 |
| Exam Fee | $0 |
| Governing Body | Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Funeral Director License in Colorado
- 1
Complete a Mortuary Science Program
Graduate from an ABFSE-accredited mortuary science program. Programs take 1-4 years depending on the degree type.
Time: 1-4 years Cost: $350 - 2
Complete an Apprenticeship
Serve as an apprentice under a licensed funeral director. Most states require 1-2 years of supervised practice. Check the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) for specific requirements.
Time: 1-2 years - 3
Pass the National Board Examination
Register and pass the NBE (National Board Examination) through the ICFSEB. The exam covers arts, sciences, and embalming. The exam fee is $0.
Time: 2-4 weeks to schedule - 4
Apply for State Licensure
Submit your application to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). Include NBE results, education transcripts, apprenticeship documentation, and the application fee of $0.
Time: 4-8 weeks - 5
Begin Your Funeral Service Career
Once licensed, you can practice as a funeral director in Colorado. Many funeral directors work for established funeral homes before potentially acquiring or starting their own.
Time: Immediate once licensed
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The None — no state license required is administered by Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Online application available: Colorado accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 0 hours of continuing education every 0 year. .
How Colorado Compares
Colorado requires 0 hours of pre-license education for funeral directors. The average total cost in Colorado is around $500, compared to the national average of $22,750. Colorado's 0-year renewal cycle is shorter than the national average of 1.6 years.
How Much Does a Funeral Director License Cost in Colorado?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $0 |
| Exam Fee | $0 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $500 - $500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 0 years
- Continuing Education: 0 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $0
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With only 0 hours required, you can complete the education portion quickly — some providers offer accelerated programs that finish in 2-3 weeks. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Start your apprenticeship early: Many mortuary science programs allow you to work as an apprentice concurrently. This dual approach lets you apply classroom knowledge immediately and may reduce your total time to licensure.
- Develop strong communication and business skills: Modern funeral directors are equal parts grief counselor and small business operator. Skills in compassionate communication, event planning, and business management are as important as technical embalming skills.
- Budget approximately $500 for your Colorado license: This includes $0 in application fees, $0 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $0 in renewal fees every 0 year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a funeral director license in Colorado?
Most people complete the process in 2-4 weeks total. The pre-license education (0 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a funeral director license in Colorado?
The total cost ranges from $500 to $500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($0), and the exam fee ($0).
Can I get a Colorado funeral director license with a criminal record?
The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a funeral director in Colorado?
No. Colorado does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 0 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Colorado?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA)