How old must an applicant for a funeral license be?

An applicant for a funeral license must be at least 18 years old, as this age represents the legal threshold of adulthood in many jurisdictions, including Tennessee. This age requirement ensures that individuals entering this profession have reached an age where they can make informed decisions, understand the responsibilities involved in funeral service, and engage with clients and families in a professional manner.

Being 18 also aligns with the need for a certain level of maturity and understanding that is critical when dealing with sensitive situations surrounding death and bereavement. The other age options do not meet the standard for professionalism and responsibility that the funeral service profession requires. While being 16 might be suitable for basic employment in non-professional roles, greater age is requisite for the responsibilities of a licensed funeral service provider. Similarly, 21 or 25 as minimum ages would be excessively restrictive and not in alignment with the established standards for licensure in this field.