A developmental process, independent of morphogenetic (shape) change, that is required for the hindbrain to attain its fully functional state. The hindbrain is the region consisting of the medulla, pons and cerebellum. Areas of the hindbrain control motor and autonomic functions. [ GOC:cls GOC:dph GOC:jid http://purl.obolibrary.org/obo/go/references/0000021 GOC:dgh http://openisbn.com/search.php?q=0838580343&isbn=1/ ]