Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Education
School Counselor Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for school counselor in New Mexico, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for School Counselor in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: No exam 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 Medical Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$76,490 median (17% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#6 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 76,490, School Counselors in New Mexico earn 17% above the national median of $65,140. New Mexico ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$76,490Hourly estimate
$36.7717% above national median
Difference: +$11,350
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSchool Counselor Salary Ranking
#6 of 50 statesfor School Counselor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 94,320 |
| #2 | Washington | 83,930 |
| #3 | Alaska | 80,020 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | 78,840 |
| #5 | New Jersey | 77,940 |
Nearby States Comparison
School Counselor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $76,490 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $63,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $51,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $65,660 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $57,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $62,500 | 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 Medical Board
2055 South Pacheco Street, Suite 400, Santa Fe, NM, 87505
Phone: 5054767220
Related Careers in New Mexico
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $65,510 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Librarian | $60,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $77,070 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $77,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a School Counselor 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 School Counselors in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for School Counselors.
What education do you need to become a School Counselor in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for School Counselor licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical School Counselor salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for School Counselors in New Mexico is 76,490. Salaries range from $46,270 (10th percentile) to $114,070 (90th percentile).
How does the School Counselor salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
School Counselors in New Mexico earn 17% above the national median of $65,140, with a state median of 76,490.
How many School Counselors work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 1,760 School Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my School Counselor 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 School Counselors in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Medical Board. Review agency details at https://www.nmmb.state.nm.us/.