Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Healthcare
Optometrist Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for optometrist in New Mexico, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department • Boards and Commissions Division • New Mexico Board of Optometry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$154,630 median (15% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet New Mexico eligibility requirements for Optometrist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.).
- 6. Submit the application to New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department~Boards and Commissions Division~New Mexico Board of Optometry and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in New Mexico
With a median salary of $154,630, Optometrists in New Mexico earn 15% above the national median of $134,830. New Mexico ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,189Median annual salary
$154,630Hourly estimate
$74.3415% above national median
Difference: +$19,800
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationOptometrist Salary Ranking
#7 of 50 statesfor Optometrist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $165,830 |
| #2 | New York | $163,040 |
| #3 | Maryland | $157,830 |
| #4 | Washington | $157,650 |
| #5 | New Jersey | $156,000 |
Nearby States Comparison
Optometrist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $154,630 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Colorado | $137,370 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $98,890 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Texas | $128,360 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $134,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Utah | $124,830 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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
Official website verified
New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department • Boards and Commissions Division • New Mexico Board of Optometry
2550 Cerrillos Road, Second Floor, P.O. Box 25101, Santa Fe, NM, 87505
Phone: 5054764622
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Optometrist in New Mexico?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Optometrists in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Optometrists.
What education do you need to become a Optometrist in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for Optometrist licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Optometrist salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Optometrists in New Mexico is $154,630. Salaries range from $94,310 (10th percentile) to $185,820 (90th percentile).
How does the Optometrist salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Optometrists in New Mexico earn 15% above the national median of $134,830, with a state median of $154,630.
How many Optometrists work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 140 Optometrists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Optometrist 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 Optometrists in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department / Boards and Commissions Division / New Mexico Board of Optometry. Review agency details at https://www.rld.nm.gov/boards-and-commissions/individual-boards-and-commissions/optometry/.
How often do you renew a Optometrist license in New Mexico?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.