What must a funeral home ensure before hiring an intern?

Before hiring an intern, a funeral home must ensure that the candidate possesses a certificate of registration as a registered intern. This requirement is crucial because obtaining the certificate signifies that the individual has met the necessary educational and regulatory standards set forth by the state of Iowa for working in the funeral service industry. In Iowa, the certificate of registration is typically issued to individuals who have completed a mortuary science program and are in the process of completing their apprenticeship under a licensed funeral director.

Having this certification is essential because it not only reflects the intern's commitment to the profession but also ensures that they are legally allowed to engage in certain activities during their internship that are pertinent to their training and experience in the field. It also provides assurance to the funeral home that the intern is qualified to learn and perform duties in accordance with state regulations.

The other options, while they might be relevant in different contexts, do not hold the same weight in terms of regulatory requirements for employment as an intern in a funeral setting. Prior work experience, a driver's license, or being a graduate of mortuary science, while beneficial, are not specific legal requirements for the intern's position according to Iowa law.