Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Business
Funeral Director Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for funeral director in North Dakota, 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 Dakota
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND State Board of Funeral Service
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$76,720 median (54% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 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 Dakota
With a median salary of 76,720, Funeral Directors in North Dakota earn 54% above the national median of $49,800. North Dakota ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median annual salary
$76,720Hourly estimate
$36.8854% above national median
Difference: +$26,920
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFuneral Director Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Funeral Director median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Funeral Director licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $76,720 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $76,490 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $58,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $49,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 Dakota | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
ND State Board of Funeral Service
PO Box 161, Rugby, ND, 58368-0161
Phone: 7017766222
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,640 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $96,160 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $98,990 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Funeral Director in North Dakota?
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 Dakota?
North Dakota 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 Dakota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Funeral Director licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Funeral Director salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Funeral Directors in North Dakota is 76,720. Salaries range from $46,220 (10th percentile) to $117,060 (90th percentile).
How does the Funeral Director salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Funeral Directors in North Dakota earn 54% above the national median of $49,800, with a state median of 76,720.
How many Funeral Directors work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 100 Funeral Directors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Funeral Director license to North Dakota from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND State Board of Funeral Service. Review agency details at https://www.funeral.nd.gov/.