Licensed Practical Nurse in New Mexico
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NM. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, New Mexico.
Jobs (NM)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a licensed practical nurse in New Mexico
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New Mexico, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The licensing body is the New Mexico Board of Nursing. A criminal background check is required for all applicants. New Mexico is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows LPNs with a multistate license from another compact state to practice in New Mexico, though a New Mexico multistate license is necessary if the state becomes their primary residence.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for New Mexico. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist New Mexico requirements
| Licensing body | New Mexico Board of Nursing |
| State license | Required |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application fee | $150 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing education | 30.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | A criminal background check is required. New Mexico is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, allowing LPNs with a multistate license from another NLC state to practice in New Mexico. If New Mexico becomes the primary state of residence, a New Mexico multistate license must be obtained. There is no specified minimum age for LPN licensure, but for school LPNs, the minimum age is 18. |
Source: New Mexico Board of Nursing
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleNew Mexico license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk