Colorado mandates licensure for mortuary science professionals by 2027

In a significant move to regulate the funeral and mortuary science professions in Colorado, the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) has opened the application process for new licenses that will be required for practitioners, including funeral directors, embalmers, cremationists, and natural reductionists. While the official licensure requirement will not take effect until January 1, 2027, individuals can apply for either full or provisional licenses starting now.

This initiative follows the passage of Senate Bill 20-173, which emerged from a sunrise review by the Colorado Office of Policy, Research and Regulatory Reform. The review highlighted the need for regulation in these professions, leading to the establishment of licensing requirements aimed at ensuring public safety and professional standards.

To obtain a license, applicants must undergo background checks and complete continuing education requirements. Provisional licenses serve as a transitional option for those currently working in the field, allowing them to gain licensure through a combination of experience and endorsements from qualified professionals. Full licenses can be achieved after completing the provisional process or meeting the full licensure criteria.

All practitioners must secure either a provisional or full license by the 2027 deadline, with provisional licenses valid for three years from issuance. The transition from provisional to full licensure must be completed by January 1, 2031. Full licenses will remain valid until November 30, 2027.

DORA has also released two comprehensive guides: the Consumer Guide to Death Care in Colorado and the Funeral and Mortuary Services Licensing Guide. These resources outline the new regulations and application processes, available at dpo.colorado.gov/funeralcrematory.

Continuing education will play a crucial role in maintaining licensure, with the first requirements set to begin in November 2027. Licensees will need to complete six hours of continuing education, covering legal, ethical, and public health topics relevant to their practice. Importantly, licensees are responsible for keeping detailed records of their continuing education for at least four years.

As Colorado prepares for these changes, the new licensing framework aims to enhance the professionalism and accountability of those who provide essential end-of-life services, ensuring that practitioners are well-equipped to meet the needs of the community.