Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Healthcare
Social Worker Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for social worker 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 Social Worker in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite)
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience 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 Social Work Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$68,950 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 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 68,950, Social Workers in New Mexico earn 1% below the national median of $69,480. New Mexico ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$68,950Hourly estimate
$33.151% below national median
Difference: -$530
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSocial Worker Salary Ranking
#29 of 50 statesfor Social Worker median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | 109,220 |
| #2 | Hawaii | 108,780 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | 106,910 |
| #4 | New Hampshire | 104,770 |
| #5 | Oklahoma | 100,150 |
Nearby States Comparison
Social Worker licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $68,950 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $63,320 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $100,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $89,520 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $60,330 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $63,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 | 56 | Medium | 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 | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Utah | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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 Social Work Examiners
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 Social Worker 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 Social Workers in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Social Workers.
What education do you need to become a Social Worker in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for Social Worker licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Social Worker salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Social Workers in New Mexico is 68,950. Salaries range from $56,600 (10th percentile) to $106,430 (90th percentile).
How does the Social Worker salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Social Workers in New Mexico earn 1% below the national median of $69,480, with a state median of 68,950.
How many Social Workers work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 550 Social Workers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Social Worker 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 Social Workers in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department / Boards and Commissions Division / New Mexico Board of Social Work Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.rld.nm.gov/boards-and-commissions/individual-boards-and-commissions/social-work/.