Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Personal Care
Nail Technician Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for nail technician 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 Nail Technician 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: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
New Mexico Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$42,840 median (24% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 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 42,840, Nail Technicians in New Mexico earn 24% above the national median of $34,660. New Mexico ranks #5 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
$42,840Hourly estimate
$20.6024% above national median
Difference: +$8,180
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationNail Technician Salary Ranking
#5 of 50 statesfor Nail Technician median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Kentucky | 60,950 |
| #2 | Maine | 49,430 |
| #3 | Washington | 47,840 |
| #4 | Alaska | 46,040 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 42,840 |
Nearby States Comparison
Nail Technician licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $42,840 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $37,800 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $29,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $36,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $34,820 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $38,390 | 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 Board of Nursing
6301 Indian School NE, Suite 710, Albuquerque, NM, 87110
Phone: 5058418340
Related Careers in New Mexico
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber | $38,960 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| 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 |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Nail Technician 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 Nail Technicians in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Nail Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Nail Technician in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Nail Technician licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Nail Technician salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Nail Technicians in New Mexico is 42,840. Salaries range from $28,690 (10th percentile) to $63,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Nail Technician salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Nail Technicians in New Mexico earn 24% above the national median of $34,660, with a state median of 42,840.
How many Nail Technicians work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 80 Nail Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Nail Technician 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 Nail Technicians in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.bon.nm.gov/.