Registered Nurse License in New Mexico
Quick Answer
To become a registered nurse in New Mexico, you must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN, and complete a background check. New Mexico is an NLC compact state. Estimated costs are approximately $410. The state has significant demand for bilingual nurses.
- Exam
- NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- Total Cost
- $410 (est.)
- Timeline
- 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Registered Nurse registration in New Mexico
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $110
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $93
- Total Estimated Cost
- $410
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Registered Nurse license in New Mexico. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the New Mexico licensing board.
Registered Nurse Salary in New Mexico
Entry Level
$70,630
Median
$88,260
Experienced
$121,200
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Registered Nurse in New Mexico.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$110.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing).
Registered Nurse Licensing in New Mexico: What to Know
New Mexico requires a degree, NCLEX-RN, background check, and CE for renewal. The New Mexico Board of Nursing oversees licensure. New Mexico is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). The state has significant nursing shortages, particularly in rural and tribal communities. The Indian Health Service and tribal health facilities are major employers. University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center in Albuquerque is the state's academic medical hub. New Mexico has a diverse, multicultural population, creating demand for bilingual (English/Spanish) and culturally competent nurses.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Registered Nurse license cost in New Mexico?
- The estimated total cost is $410, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Registered Nurse license in New Mexico?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years (education) + 1-3 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Registered Nurse license in New Mexico?
- You need to pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Registered Nurse requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.