Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Business
Funeral Director Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for funeral director in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Funeral Director in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board of Funeral Service
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$58,860 median (18% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of 58,860, Funeral Directors in North Carolina earn 18% above the national median of $49,800. North Carolina ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$58,860Hourly estimate
$28.3018% above national median
Difference: +$9,060
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFuneral Director Salary Ranking
#18 of 50 statesfor Funeral Director median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Delaware | 80,290 |
| #2 | North Dakota | 76,720 |
| #3 | Minnesota | 76,490 |
| #4 | Nebraska | 65,310 |
| #5 | Maine | 63,790 |
Nearby States Comparison
Funeral Director licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $58,860 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $60,360 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $44,670 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $49,100 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $40,160 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
NC Board of Funeral Service
1033 Wade Ave, Ste 108, Raleigh, NC, 27605
Phone: 9197339380
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $87,990 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $102,140 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Funeral Director in North Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Funeral Directors in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Funeral Directors.
What education do you need to become a Funeral Director in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Funeral Director licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Funeral Director salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Funeral Directors in North Carolina is 58,860. Salaries range from $27,500 (10th percentile) to $75,560 (90th percentile).
How does the Funeral Director salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Funeral Directors in North Carolina earn 18% above the national median of $49,800, with a state median of 58,860.
How many Funeral Directors work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 940 Funeral Directors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Funeral Director license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Funeral Directors in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Funeral Service. Review agency details at https://ncbfs.org/.