Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Personal Care
Cosmetologist Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for cosmetologist 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 Cosmetologist 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
$28,150 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 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 28,150, Cosmetologists in New Mexico earn 20% below the national median of $35,250. New Mexico ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$28,150Hourly estimate
$13.5320% below national median
Difference: -$7,100
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCosmetologist Salary Ranking
#48 of 50 statesfor Cosmetologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 58,920 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 52,000 |
| #3 | Vermont | 49,640 |
| #4 | South Dakota | 49,050 |
| #5 | Maine | 48,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Cosmetologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $28,150 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $43,680 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $30,680 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $28,370 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $35,220 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $34,960 | 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 | 50 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | 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 Cosmetologist 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 Cosmetologists in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Cosmetologists.
What education do you need to become a Cosmetologist in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Cosmetologist licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Cosmetologist salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Cosmetologists in New Mexico is 28,150. Salaries range from $25,950 (10th percentile) to $62,400 (90th percentile).
How does the Cosmetologist salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Cosmetologists in New Mexico earn 20% below the national median of $35,250, with a state median of 28,150.
How many Cosmetologists work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 1,380 Cosmetologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Cosmetologist 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 Cosmetologists 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/.