Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in New Mexico, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Barber in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department • Boards and Commissions Division • New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$38,960 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in New Mexico
With a median salary of 38,960, Barbers in New Mexico earn 0% above the national median of $38,960. New Mexico ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$38,960Hourly estimate
$18.730% above national median
Difference: +$0
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#26 of 50 statesfor Barber median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Iowa | 78,480 |
| #2 | Washington | 70,750 |
| #3 | North Carolina | 64,290 |
| #4 | Colorado | 56,690 |
| #5 | Louisiana | 49,850 |
Nearby States Comparison
Barber licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $38,960 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $56,690 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $31,450 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $36,400 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $32,840 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $25,290 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Colorado | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department • Boards and Commissions Division • New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
2550 Cerrillos Road, Second Floor, P.O. Box 25101, Santa Fe, NM, 87505
Phone: 5054764854
Related Careers in New Mexico
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $28,150 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $36,000 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $47,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $42,840 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in New Mexico?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Barbers in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Barber licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Barber salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Barbers in New Mexico is 38,960.
How does the Barber salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Barbers in New Mexico earn 0% above the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 38,960.
Can I transfer my Barber license to New Mexico from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Barbers in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department / Boards and Commissions Division / New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. Review agency details at https://www.rld.nm.gov/boards-and-commissions/individual-boards-and-commissions/barbers-and-cosmetologists-overview/.