Unlicensed Practice

Our funeral home was recently contacted by an out-of-state funeral group requesting our cremation services.  Upon further research, we are unable to determine the licensure status of that group or to locate a physical address of a funeral home. What steps can we take to ensure that we do not run afoul of the Virginia laws and regulations related to the practice of funeral services?  

In July 2023, the Board reaffirmed Guidance Document 65-4, which provides guidance to funeral licensees about the potential issues that may arise when dealing with individuals or entities who may not be licensed and/or who may not be licensed in the state in which arrangements are or will be made with the family to be served. 

Where a licensee is unable to verify licensure status of an individual or entity seeking to contract for funeral services with the Virginia establishment, or where a licensee has concerns about whether the individual or entity may be engaging in providing funeral services in Virginia without the requisite licensure or registration, the licensee may file a complaint with DHP’s Enforcement Division using its online complaint form.

To verify the licensure status of an individual or entity providing funeral services in Virginia, please visit the License Lookup page on the DHP website.