Embalmer Apprentice

Exam

No exam

Education

None

Experience

None

Background check

Specific type of conviction prohibited

Apprentice Embalmers learn the practice of embalming under the instruction and direct supervision of a licensed embalmer. They help prepare bodies for burial as a sanitary and preservative measure according to State law. They help treat bodies with antiseptic and disinfectant chemicals prior to viewing and burial. They aide the embalmer in the removing of blood from the circulatory system and help him replace the blood with embalming fluid. Apprentice embalmers apply cosmetics to give the body a natural appearance and, if necessary, restore disfigured or maimed bodies by using clay, cotton, or wax. They also help dress and place bodies in caskets. Apprentice embalmers may assist funeral directors with funeral arrangements or maintain records. Requirements: 1) Must be at least 18 years of age. 2) Must have graduated from high school or equivalent. 3) Must serve one year in an Arkansas licensed establishment under an embalmer licensed by the Board and must assist in the embalming of at least 50 bodies during the apprenticeship. 4) Must enroll in mortuary school within a year of starting apprenticeship. 4a. Failure to do so will result in the termination of the apprenticeship for a period of ninety (90) days, or upon the enrollment in mortuary school, whichever period is shorter. 5) May serve apprenticeship before, during, or after attending an accredited college of mortuary science. 6) Must pass both parts of the National Conference Exam with 75 or better and the Arkansas Laws Rules and Regulations Exam with 75 or better to become a licensed embalmer. 7) Any person who is registered as an apprentice embalmer and/or funeral director in the State of Arkansas is required to complete this apprenticeship within three (3) years of the date of registration. If not completed within three (3) years, the apprentice may re-register for a second three (3) years. In cases where the apprenticeship is not completed in three (3) years, the apprentice will be notified that he or she has ninety (90) calendar days to re-register. If the apprentice fails to re-register within ninety (90) calendar days from the date of notification, then upon any delinquent re-registration, the apprentice must start the apprenticeship from the beginning, to include case reports. If the apprenticeship is not completed within six (6) years of the date of original registration, he or she shall not be eligible to register as an apprentice for ninety (90) calendar days. After this ninety (90) day period, a person may register as an apprentice and begin the process from the beginning, including case reports. Examination required. Embalmer Apprenticeship application: $50.00