The State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors was established as the State Board of Undertakers of Maryland in 1902 (Chapter 160, Acts of 1902). Renamed the State Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers in 1937, then the Board of Morticians in 1981. The Board received its present name in 2007 (Chapter 186 Acts of 2007).

The purpose of the State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors is to carry out the duties mandated under Title 7 of the Health Occupations Article. The primary purpose is the protection of the public's health and welfare through appropriate credentialing, examination, licensure, and discipline of morticians, funeral directors, surviving spouses, apprentices, and funeral establishments in Maryland. The Board also inspects and licenses funeral establishments upon proof of compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws.

The Board issues eleven (11) classifications of licenses and permits: Apprentice, Courtesy Card, Registered Crematory Operator, Funeral Director, Mortician, Surviving Spouse, Registered Transporter, Funeral Establishment, Crematory Permit, Mortuary Transport Company Permit, and Corporate License Renewals.

The Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors interacts cooperatively with other agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission, Office of the Attorney General, Division of Consumer Protection, MDH Office of the Secretary, Office of Cemetery Oversight of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, MDH Office of the Medical Examiner, and the State Anatomy Board where the Mortician's practical examination is administered.

The Board became self-funded in October of 1993. The revenue collected from licensing fees ensures the operating costs of the Board. The Board is comprised of 11 volunteer members.​