2026 data New Mexico board official source

New Mexico Marriage and Family Therapist License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Specializes in treating relationship and family issues.

What the New Mexico data shows for Marriage and Family Therapists

Becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist in New Mexico means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 3,270 training hours, a passing score on MFT National Examination, and 2 years of supervised work experience, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. New Mexico regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Masters or Doctoral Degree".

The initial price tag is $248, and renewal costs $210 every 2 years. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 36 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

On reciprocity, marriage and family therapists should know: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in New Mexico

Education / Training Hours
Masters or Doctoral Degree
3,270 hours
Exam Requirement
MFT National Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$248
Renewal Fee
$210
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
36 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years
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 Marriage and Family Therapist in New Mexico?
New Mexico requires 3270 education/training hours, passing an exam (MFT National Examination), and an initial fee of $248. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Marriage and Family Therapist in New Mexico?
New Mexico licenses marriage and family therapists who complete its requirements (3270 education hours, 2 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the New Mexico licensing board.
Can I transfer my Marriage and Family Therapist license to New Mexico from another state?
Marriage and Family Therapist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: MFT Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The New Mexico licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does New Mexico require a background check for Marriage and Family Therapist licensing?
New Mexico does require a background check before issuing a marriage and family therapist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist in New Mexico?
To stay licensed as a marriage and family therapist in New Mexico, plan on 36 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $210.

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