Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Healthcare
Registered Nurse Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for registered nurse 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 Registered Nurse 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: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
New Mexico Board of Nursing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$88,260 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 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 88,260, Registered Nurses in New Mexico earn 6% below the national median of $93,600. New Mexico ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$88,260Hourly estimate
$42.436% below national median
Difference: -$5,340
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRegistered Nurse Salary Ranking
#20 of 50 statesfor Registered Nurse median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 140,330 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 136,320 |
| #3 | Oregon | 123,990 |
| #4 | Washington | 112,180 |
| #5 | Alaska | 110,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Registered Nurse licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $88,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $96,520 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $81,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $90,010 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $96,890 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $82,270 | 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 Board of Nursing
6301 Indian School NE, Suite 710, Albuquerque, NM, 87110
Phone: 5058418340
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 Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Registered Nurses.
What education do you need to become a Registered Nurse in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for Registered Nurse licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Registered Nurse salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Registered Nurses in New Mexico is 88,260. Salaries range from $70,630 (10th percentile) to $121,200 (90th percentile).
How does the Registered Nurse salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Registered Nurses in New Mexico earn 6% below the national median of $93,600, with a state median of 88,260.
How many Registered Nurses work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 17,510 Registered Nurses according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Board of Nursing. Review agency details at https://www.bon.nm.gov/.