Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in New Mexico, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- 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 • Private Investigations Advisory Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$44,870 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 44,870, Private Investigators in New Mexico earn 14% below the national median of $52,370. New Mexico ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$44,870Hourly estimate
$21.5714% below national median
Difference: -$7,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#42 of 50 statesfor Private Investigator median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Oregon | 77,320 |
| #2 | Maryland | 74,360 |
| #3 | Illinois | 73,070 |
| #4 | Minnesota | 72,070 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 68,290 |
Nearby States Comparison
Private Investigator licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $44,870 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $49,720 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $40,470 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $48,070 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $64,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $51,130 | 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 | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Colorado | 54 | 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 | 54 | 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 • Private Investigations Advisory Board
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,070 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,420 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $104,600 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $77,710 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator 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 Private Investigators in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in New Mexico?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in New Mexico is 44,870. Salaries range from $36,020 (10th percentile) to $67,250 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in New Mexico earn 14% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 44,870.
How many Private Investigators work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 190 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator 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 Private Investigators in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department / Boards and Commissions Division / Private Investigations Advisory Board. Review agency details at https://www.rld.nm.gov/boards-and-commissions/individual-boards-and-commissions/private-investigations/.