Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Healthcare
Dentist Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist 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 Dentist 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
$171,730 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 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 171,730, Dentists in New Mexico earn 1% below the national median of $172,790. New Mexico ranks #27 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
$171,730Hourly estimate
$82.561% below national median
Difference: -$1,060
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
#27 of 50 statesfor Dentist median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $171,730 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $136,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $161,780 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $157,370 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $206,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $132,270 | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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 Dentist 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 Dentists in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Dentists.
What education do you need to become a Dentist in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dentist licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Dentist salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Dentists in New Mexico is 171,730.
How does the Dentist salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Dentists in New Mexico earn 1% below the national median of $172,790, with a state median of 171,730.
How many Dentists work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 660 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist 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 Dentists 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/.