When Reinstatement Is Needed
Your WV funeral license or certification requires reinstatement if:
- Your license expired because you missed the biennial renewal deadline (July 1)
- Your license was suspended by the Board and the suspension period has ended
- Your license lapsed due to non-payment of renewal fees
- You voluntarily placed your license on inactive status and now want to return to active practice
- Your crematory operator certification expired and you need to recertify
Reinstatement is not automatic. You must apply to the Board and meet current requirements before you can legally practice again. Practicing with an expired or lapsed license is illegal under WV Code §30-6-16.
Reinstatement vs. New Application
The reinstatement process depends on how long your license has been expired:
| Situation | Likely Path | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Expired less than 1 year | Reinstatement | Pay renewal fee + late fee, complete any outstanding CE |
| Expired 1 to 3 years | Reinstatement with conditions | May require additional CE, updated documentation, Board review |
| Expired more than 3 years | Board determination | May require re-examination, additional training, or a new application |
| Revoked license | Board review | Must petition the Board, demonstrate rehabilitation, may require full re-application |
| Crematory operator (expired) | Retake training | Must complete an approved crematory operator certification course before reinstatement |
"Each case is different. The Board evaluates reinstatement applications individually based on how long the license has been lapsed, the reason it lapsed, and whether requirements have changed since it was last active. Always contact the Board at (304) 558-0302 before starting the process."
Reinstatement Requirements
While specific requirements vary by case, most reinstatements require:
For crematory operators specifically: if your certification has expired, you must retake and pass a Board-approved crematory operator certification course before reinstatement.
Step-by-Step Process
Contact the Board
Call (304) 558-0302 or email wvfuneralboard@wv.gov before submitting anything. Explain your situation — when your license expired, why it lapsed, and your intent to reinstate. The Board will tell you exactly what's required for your specific case.
Complete outstanding CE requirements
If you're behind on continuing education, complete the required hours through a Board-approved provider before applying for reinstatement. Your hours must be reported through CE Broker.
Download and complete the reinstatement form
Get the correct form for your license type from the Board's website at wvfuneralboard.wv.gov (see table below).
Gather supporting documentation
This may include proof of CE completion, license verification from other states, updated background information, or other documents the Board requests.
Submit application and fees
179 Summers Street, Suite 319
Charleston, WV 25301
Phone: (304) 558-0302
Email: wvfuneralboard@wv.gov
Wait for Board review
The Board will review your application and may request additional information. Processing times vary — follow up with the Board if you haven't heard back within 30 days.
Receive your reinstated license
Once approved, the Board will issue your reinstated license or certificate. You can then legally resume practice in West Virginia.
Reinstatement Forms by License Type
| License Type | Reinstatement Form |
|---|---|
| Funeral Service Licensee / Funeral Director | Funeral Service / Director Licensee Reinstatement Form |
| Crematory Operator | Crematory Operator Reinstatement Form |
| Courtesy Card | Courtesy Card Reinstatement Form |
| Main Funeral Establishment | Main Facility Reinstatement Form |
| Branch Funeral Establishment | Branch Facility Reinstatement Form |
| Crematory Facility | Crematory Reinstatement Form |
All forms are available at wvfuneralboard.wv.gov. See our forms page for a complete list.
Reactivating an Inactive License
If you voluntarily placed your license on inactive status (rather than letting it expire), the reactivation process is typically simpler than full reinstatement.
Under WV Code §30-6-14(d), a licensee who does not wish to continue active practice can notify the Board and pay a fee to be listed as inactive. While inactive, you cannot practice funeral directing, embalming, or cremation in West Virginia.
To reactivate:
- Contact the Board at (304) 558-0302
- Complete any CE requirements that accrued during your inactive period
- Submit a reactivation request and pay the applicable fee
- The Board will update your status to active
"Going inactive is a better option than letting your license expire. It's easier to reactivate an inactive license than to reinstate an expired one, and it avoids late fees."
Returning From Emeritus Status
Licensed funeral directors and embalmers who obtained emeritus status (age 65+ with 10+ years experience) can return to active practice using the Retiree Return to Work Form.
Emeritus licensees are exempt from CE requirements, but if you want to return to active practice, you may need to demonstrate current competency. Contact the Board to discuss specific requirements for returning from emeritus status.