Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NM Board of Trades
Welder Licensing in New Mexico
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for welder 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 Welder in New Mexico
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Preliminary/temporary license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
New Mexico State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers & Professional Surveyors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$52,460 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 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 52,460, Welders in New Mexico earn 3% above the national median of $51,000. New Mexico ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$52,460Hourly estimate
$25.223% above national median
Difference: +$1,460
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationWelder Salary Ranking
#26 of 50 statesfor Welder median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | 76,970 |
| #2 | Alaska | 75,140 |
| #3 | Wyoming | 66,070 |
| #4 | Connecticut | 64,520 |
| #5 | Washington | 61,730 |
Nearby States Comparison
Welder licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $52,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Colorado | $57,200 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $48,490 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $49,830 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $53,770 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $56,050 | No educational requirements | State 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 | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Colorado | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Utah | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
New Mexico State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers & Professional Surveyors
2550 Cerrillos Road, Third Floor, P.O. Box 1967, Santa Fe, NM, 87505
Phone: 5054764565
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 Welder 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 Welders in New Mexico?
New Mexico lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Welders.
What education do you need to become a Welder in New Mexico?
The board typically expects Degree required for Welder licensure in New Mexico.
What is the typical Welder salary in New Mexico?
The median annual salary for Welders in New Mexico is 52,460. Salaries range from $35,590 (10th percentile) to $91,740 (90th percentile).
How does the Welder salary in New Mexico compare to the national average?
Welders in New Mexico earn 3% above the national median of $51,000, with a state median of 52,460.
How many Welders work in New Mexico?
New Mexico employs approximately 2,350 Welders according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Welder license to New Mexico from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Welders in New Mexico?
The licensing agency is New Mexico State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers & Professional Surveyors. Review agency details at https://www.sblpes.state.nm.us/.