What Is a Crematory Operator?
A crematory operator is a person certified by the WV Board of Funeral Service Examiners to operate a crematory — the facility where cremation takes place. In West Virginia, it's illegal to perform cremations without this certification. Every crematory in the state must have a certified crematory operator in charge at all times.
This is a separate certification from a funeral director or embalmer license. You don't need a mortuary science degree to become a crematory operator, but you do need to complete a Board-approved training course and pass the application process.
With about half of West Virginia families now choosing cremation — up from roughly 30% a decade ago — qualified crematory operators are in strong demand across the state.
Certification Requirements
Under WV Code §30-6-11 and WV CSR 6-02-5, you must meet the following requirements:
Unlike funeral director or embalmer licensing, there is no degree requirement and no apprenticeship. The path to certification is shorter and more accessible.
How to Get Certified — Step by Step
The WV Board approves specific crematory operator certification courses. You must complete one of these approved programs before applying. See the section below for approved options.
The training covers cremation equipment operation, safety procedures, legal requirements, handling of remains, documentation, and environmental regulations. Most courses can be completed in 1 to 2 days.
At the end of the course, you'll receive a certificate of completion. Keep this — you must submit it with your application.
Download the Crematory Operator Application from the Board's website at wvfuneralboard.wv.gov. Submit the completed application along with your training certificate and the application fee.
179 Summers Street, Suite 319
Charleston, WV 25301
Phone: (304) 558-0302
Email: wvfuneralboard@wv.gov
Once approved, the Board issues your crematory operator certificate. Your certification must be renewed biennially (every two years) on or before July 1.
Approved Training Programs
The Board approves crematory operator training programs on a biennial basis. Training providers must demonstrate educational qualifications, adequate resources, and quality program content.
Nationally recognized programs that are commonly accepted include:
| Program | Provider | Format | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cremation Certification Program | National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) | Online + in-person options | 1–2 days |
| Crematory Operations Certification | Cremation Association of North America (CANA) | Online + in-person | 1–2 days |
| State-specific training | Various Board-approved providers | Varies | Varies |
Important: Before enrolling in any program, contact the WV Board at (304) 558-0302 to confirm that the specific course is currently approved. The Board reviews and approves training programs biennially, and approved providers can change.
Crematory Facility Licensing
Separate from operator certification, every crematory facility in West Virginia must be independently licensed. Under WV Code §30-6-20, a crematory license requires:
Each crematory license is valid for one specific street address only. If a crematory moves locations, a new license is required.
Crematory licenses must be renewed biennially on or before July 1. A crematory cannot operate more than 30 days without a certified operator in charge — if the operator leaves, the facility must notify the Board within 30 days and appoint a replacement.
Operator-in-Charge Requirements
Every licensed crematory in West Virginia must designate a certified crematory operator in charge. This person accepts responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the crematory and must:
- Hold a current, active crematory operator certification
- Be employed by or directly associated with the crematory
- Ensure all cremations are performed in compliance with WV law
- Maintain proper documentation for every cremation
- Ensure cremation authorization forms are obtained before any cremation proceeds
If an operator-in-charge leaves or is terminated, the crematory must notify the Board within 30 days and submit a new application naming the replacement operator. The crematory cannot legally operate for more than 30 days without a certified operator in charge.
For funeral establishments that include a crematory, the licensee-in-charge of the funeral home must also hold a crematory operator certificate (per WV Code §30-6-19).
Continuing Education
Crematory operators in West Virginia must complete continuing education under specific conditions:
New equipment training: When a crematory installs new cremation equipment, the operator must complete training on that specific equipment before using it. This training must be conducted by someone with comprehensive knowledge of the equipment.
Regulatory changes: When the Board determines that industry regulations have changed significantly, it may require additional training. Operators are given 9 months from the date of notification to complete the required training.
Record keeping: Operators must maintain records of all continuing education completed. These records may be reviewed during Board inspections.
Unlike funeral directors and embalmers, crematory operators do not have a set number of CE hours required per renewal cycle. CE is triggered by equipment changes or regulatory updates.
Renewal Process
Crematory operator certificates must be renewed every two years (biennially) on or before July 1.
To renew:
- Download the Crematory Operator Renewal Form from the Board's website at wvfuneralboard.wv.gov
- Complete the form and include documentation of any required continuing education
- Submit with the renewal fee before the deadline
Important: If your certification has expired, you may need to retake and pass an approved crematory operator training course before the Board will reinstate your certification. Contact the Board directly to determine your reinstatement requirements.
Alkaline Hydrolysis (Water Cremation)
In 2022, West Virginia passed HB 4647, which legalized alkaline hydrolysis — also known as water cremation, aquamation, or resomation. This is an alternative to traditional flame cremation that uses water and an alkaline solution to reduce the body.
Under the new law, operators who wish to perform alkaline hydrolysis must obtain separate certification. The Board is developing rules for alkaline hydrolysis operator certification, which will follow a similar process to traditional crematory operator certification.
If you're interested in alkaline hydrolysis certification, contact the Board at (304) 558-0302 for the latest information on requirements and approved training programs.