SB173 Compliance Center
Everything you need to understand Colorado's new licensing requirements — and get compliant before the January 1, 2027 deadline.
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Signed into law on May 24, 2024, Senate Bill 173 establishes Colorado's first individual licensing requirements for funeral professionals in over 40 years. Beginning January 1, 2027, anyone practicing in the funeral profession in Colorado must hold a valid license in one of five categories.
Whether you're a seasoned funeral director or just entering the field, your license type and pathway depend on your role, education, and experience. CFDA is here to help you figure out exactly what applies to you.
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If you're currently practicing but don't yet meet the full requirements for licensure, a provisional license may be your path forward. To qualify, you must meet all of the following:
✓ 4,000+ hours of documented work experience (approximately two years of full-time work)
✓ One year of workplace training or apprenticeship
✓ Fingerprint-based criminal background check
✓ Oversight by a peer reviewer approved by DORA
Important: Provisional licenses expire after three years. During that time, you must actively work toward full licensure.
CFDA can help you understand your eligibility and navigate the documentation process.
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To renew your license under SB 173, you must complete 6 hours of continuing education annually:
1 hour covering public health requirements
5 hours of industry-relevant education
CFDA members receive access to approved CE courses that count directly toward your annual renewal requirements. We make it easy to track your credits and stay on schedule.
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Funeral Director Requires completion of an accredited mortuary science program, passage of the Arts examination, and one year of apprenticeship.
Mortuary Science Practitioner Requires completion of an accredited mortuary science program, passage of both the Arts and Science examinations, and one year of apprenticeship.
Embalmer Requires completion of an accredited mortuary science program, passage of the Science examination, and one year of apprenticeship.
Cremationist Requires certification from CANA, ICCFA, or NFDA.
Natural Reductionist Requires certification from CANA, ICCFA, or NFDA.
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May 2024 — SB 173 signed into law
January 2025 — Rules take effect
May 2025 — License applications open
January 1, 2027 — All practicing professionals must hold a valid license
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't get licensed by January 1, 2027?
Operating without a valid license after January 1, 2027 may result in enforcement action by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). Don't wait — contact CFDA to start your compliance process today.
How do I document my 4,000 hours of work experience?
CFDA's Compliance Toolkit includes a documentation guide to help you gather and organize your work history for the provisional license application.
Do I need a license if I only work part-time?
CFDA recommends checking DORA guidance on part-time applicability.
What CE courses does CFDA offer?
CFDA offers monthly Listen & Learn webinars and annual conference programming, most of which qualify for CE credit. Visit our Education & Events page for the current schedule.
I'm licensed in another state — does that count?
CFDA recommends checking DORA reciprocity provisions.
What is the application fee?
Fee to be confirmed with DORA — recommend linking to DORA's official fee schedule
