Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Healthcare
Occupational Therapist Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for occupational therapist 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 Occupational Therapist in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- 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 Examiners for Occupational Therapy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$99,220 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 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 99,220, Occupational Therapists in New Mexico earn 1% above the national median of $98,340. New Mexico ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$99,220Hourly estimate
$47.701% above national median
Difference: +$880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOccupational Therapist Salary Ranking
#15 of 50 statesfor Occupational Therapist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 119,470 |
| #2 | Oregon | 106,840 |
| #3 | Nevada | 104,770 |
| #4 | Colorado | 103,970 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | 103,510 |
Nearby States Comparison
Occupational Therapist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $99,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $103,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $103,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $101,760 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $102,220 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $93,310 | 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 | 56 | Medium | 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 Examiners for Occupational Therapy
2550 Cerrillos Road, Second Floor, P.O. Box 25101, Santa Fe, NM, 87505
Phone: 5054764880
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 Occupational Therapist 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 Occupational Therapists in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Occupational Therapists.
What education do you need to become a Occupational Therapist in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for Occupational Therapist licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Occupational Therapist salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Occupational Therapists in New Mexico is 99,220. Salaries range from $67,450 (10th percentile) to $139,150 (90th percentile).
How does the Occupational Therapist salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Occupational Therapists in New Mexico earn 1% above the national median of $98,340, with a state median of 99,220.
How many Occupational Therapists work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 860 Occupational Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Occupational Therapist 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 Occupational Therapists in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department / Boards and Commissions Division / New Mexico Board of Examiners for Occupational Therapy. Review agency details at https://www.rld.nm.gov/boards-and-commissions/individual-boards-and-commissions/occupational-therapy/.