Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in New Mexico, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
New Mexico Board of Bar Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$112,500 median (26% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 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 112,500, Lawyers in New Mexico earn 26% below the national median of $151,160. New Mexico ranks #34 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
$112,500Hourly estimate
$54.0926% below national median
Difference: -$38,660
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#34 of 50 statesfor Lawyer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 197,790 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 179,050 |
| #3 | New York | 177,210 |
| #4 | Delaware | 172,710 |
| #5 | Colorado | 167,970 |
Nearby States Comparison
Lawyer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $112,500 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $167,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $98,870 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $133,570 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $133,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $125,710 | 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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
New Mexico Board of Bar Examiners
2440 Louisiana Blvd NE, Suite 280, Albuquerque, NM, 87110
Phone: 5052719706
Related Careers in New Mexico
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,070 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,420 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $104,600 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $77,710 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer 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 Lawyers in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in New Mexico is 112,500. Salaries range from $71,390 (10th percentile) to $219,410 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Lawyers in New Mexico earn 26% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 112,500.
How many Lawyers work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 3,130 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to New Mexico from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Lawyers in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Board of Bar Examiners. Review agency details at https://nmexam.org/.