Cosmetologist / New Mexico
2026 data New Mexico board official source

New Mexico Cosmetologist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Provides hair, skin, and nail care services. Required in all 50 states.

What the New Mexico data shows for Cosmetologists

To practice as a cosmetologist in New Mexico, the state licensing board requires 1,462 documented education or training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. The regulation sits under New Mexico's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

The initial price tag is $60, and renewal costs $30 every 2 years. Applications usually take around 3 weeks to process once complete. New Mexico doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

On reciprocity, cosmetologists should know: Varies by state — check with state board.

Licensing Requirements in New Mexico

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,462 hours
Exam Requirement
State Cosmetology Board Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$151
Renewal Fee
$75
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
16 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$60
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$30
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
Not required
Compare fees across all states for Cosmetologist →

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Cosmetologist All New Mexico licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New Mexico licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Cosmetologist in New Mexico? ▼
In New Mexico, the license path calls for 1462 education/training hours, a passing score on State Cosmetology Board Exam, and a $151 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Cosmetologist in New Mexico? ▼
To become a licensed cosmetologist in New Mexico, you must meet the state's requirements including 1462 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the New Mexico licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist license to New Mexico from another state? ▼
For cosmetologists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Varies by state — check with state board. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the New Mexico licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does New Mexico require a background check for Cosmetologist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the cosmetologist licensing process in New Mexico. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
How much does it cost to get a Cosmetologist license in New Mexico? ▼
The initial licensing fee in New Mexico is $60. The renewal fee is $30 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Cosmetologist license processing take in New Mexico? ▼
In New Mexico, license processing for cosmetologists typically takes approximately 3 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.