Respiratory Therapist / New Mexico
2026 data New Mexico board official source

New Mexico Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

PlainCredential home → About this data

Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the New Mexico data shows for Respiratory Therapists

To practice as a respiratory therapist in New Mexico, the state licensing board requires 2,270 documented education or training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice). A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under New Mexico's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $204, with renewal running $166 on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For respiratory therapists, the reciprocity picture is: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in New Mexico

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,270 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$204
Renewal Fee
$166
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Respiratory Therapist 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 Respiratory Therapist in New Mexico? ▼
New Mexico's requirements cover 2270 hours of education or training, the TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice) exam, and an initial fee of $204. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in New Mexico? ▼
Certification as a respiratory therapist in New Mexico means clearing the state's checklist: 2270 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The New Mexico licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to New Mexico from another state? ▼
Respiratory Therapist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Respiratory Therapy 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 Respiratory Therapist licensing? ▼
Yes, New Mexico requires a criminal background check as part of the respiratory therapist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Respiratory Therapist in New Mexico? ▼
To stay licensed as a respiratory therapist in New Mexico, plan on 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $166.

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.