Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in New Mexico, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Hygienist in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department • Boards and Commissions Division • New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care and NM Dental Hygienist Committee
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$96,410 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 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 96,410, Dental Hygienists in New Mexico earn 2% above the national median of $94,260. New Mexico ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,189Median annual salary
$96,410Hourly estimate
$46.352% above national median
Difference: +$2,150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#18 of 50 statesfor Dental Hygienist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | 129,760 |
| #2 | Washington | 125,370 |
| #3 | California | 121,080 |
| #4 | Oregon | 118,280 |
| #5 | Colorado | 106,730 |
Nearby States Comparison
Dental Hygienist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $96,410 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $106,730 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $95,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $94,490 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $97,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $82,610 | 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 | 50 | 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required 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 Dental Health Care and NM Dental Hygienist Committee
2550 Cerrillos Road, Second Floor, P.O. Box 25101, Santa Fe, NM, 87505
Phone: 5054764622
Related Careers in New Mexico
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $77,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $46,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $38,840 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist 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 Dental Hygienists in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Dental Hygienists.
What education do you need to become a Dental Hygienist in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in New Mexico is 96,410. Salaries range from $80,020 (10th percentile) to $103,000 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in New Mexico earn 2% above the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 96,410.
How many Dental Hygienists work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 1,400 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to New Mexico from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Dental Hygienists in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department / Boards and Commissions Division / New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care and NM Dental Hygienist Committee. Review agency details at https://www.rld.nm.gov/boards-and-commissions/individual-boards-and-commissions/dental-health-care-overview/.