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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Optometrist 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: Work 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 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 (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 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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $137,370 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $98,890 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $128,360 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $134,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $124,830 | 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 Optometry
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 Optometrist 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 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/.