Certifications & licenses in New Mexico
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 27 professional credentials in NM. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about New Mexico
Licensing landscape in New Mexico
A cosmetology license in New Mexico requires the completion of a 1,600-hour course of instruction from a licensed school.
New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
To become a licensed massage therapist, a minimum of 650 hours of massage therapy training is required as of 2024.
New Mexico Massage Therapy Board
EMT licensure requires passing the National Registry (NREMT) exam and paying a $65 fee to the EMS Bureau as of 2024.
New Mexico EMS Bureau
Journeyman electricians must complete 16 hours of continuing education every 3 years to renew their license.
New Mexico Construction Industries Division
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in New Mexico
A $75K salary in a high-cost state has roughly the purchasing power of a $81K salary in New Mexico.
Regional comparison: New Mexico vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs NM |
|---|---|---|
| NM | $36,960 | — |
| AZ | $37,970 | +2.7% vs NM |
| CO | $39,520 | +6.9% vs NM |
| OK | $31,450 | -14.9% vs NM |
| TX | $34,270 | -7.3% vs NM |
| UT | $37,630 | +1.8% vs NM |
| State | Required training hours | vs NM |
|---|---|---|
| NM | 650 hours | — |
| AZ | 700 hours | +50 hours |
| CO | 650 hours | 0 hours |
| OK | 500 hours | -150 hours |
| TX | 500 hours | -150 hours |
| UT | 600 hours | -50 hours |
Healthcare in New Mexico
13 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $37,030 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $38,840 |
| EMT | Required | $36,850 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $60,760 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $39,000 |
| Medical Coder | No | $50,340 |
| Paramedic | Required | $36,850 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $44,970 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $38,480 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $74,060 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $66,460 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $52,780 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $96,410 |
Trades in New Mexico
8 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $48,360 |
| Electrician | Required | $56,890 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $55,020 |
| Plumber | Required | $59,660 |
| Welder | No | $52,460 |
| Barber | Required | — |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $28,150 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $47,660 |
Professional in New Mexico
6 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $77,420 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $56,620 |
| Personal Trainer | No | $45,760 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $46,990 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $79,790 |