Who is considered a licensee in Iowa funeral law?

In Iowa funeral law, a licensee is specifically defined as any person who is licensed to practice as a funeral director. This means that individuals must have met the educational and examination requirements set forth by the state to earn their license. The gravity of holding a license is significant as it signifies that the individual has the necessary training and qualifications to conduct funeral services legally and ethically.

A person who has completed mortuary school does not automatically qualify as a licensee unless they have also obtained the necessary state license. Experience alone, such as having a minimum of five years in the industry, does not equate to being a licensed funeral director; licensing requires both education and successful completion of examinations. Additionally, individuals who work under a licensed funeral director are not considered licensees themselves unless they hold their own license. This distinction is crucial in ensuring that only qualified individuals provide professional funeral services. Thus, the correct identification of a licensee in Iowa involves explicitly holding a valid license to practice as a funeral director.