Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Trades
Plumber Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for plumber in New Mexico, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Plumber in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department • Construction Industries Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$59,660 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 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 59,660, Plumbers in New Mexico earn 5% below the national median of $62,970. New Mexico ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$59,660Hourly estimate
$28.685% below national median
Difference: -$3,310
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPlumber Salary Ranking
#36 of 50 statesfor Plumber median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Illinois | 96,200 |
| #2 | Oregon | 93,110 |
| #3 | Minnesota | 83,280 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 83,260 |
| #5 | Alaska | 83,090 |
Nearby States Comparison
Plumber licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $59,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $63,610 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $54,840 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $58,560 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $61,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $61,680 | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department • Construction Industries Division
2550 Cerrillos Road, Third Floor, P.O. Box 25101, Santa Fe, NM, 87505
Phone: 5054764500
Related Careers in New Mexico
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $52,010 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Electrician | $56,890 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $106,580 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $55,020 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Plumber 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 is the typical Plumber salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Plumbers in New Mexico is 59,660. Salaries range from $38,100 (10th percentile) to $84,090 (90th percentile).
How does the Plumber salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Plumbers in New Mexico earn 5% below the national median of $62,970, with a state median of 59,660.
How many Plumbers work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 2,900 Plumbers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Plumber 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 Plumbers in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department / Construction Industries Division. Review agency details at https://www.rld.nm.gov/construction-industries/find-a-bureau/bureaus/.