New Mexico licenses cosmetologists through the Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists, part of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD). You need a New Mexico cosmetology license to legally perform hair, skin, and nail services for compensation anywhere in the state.
New Mexico requires 1,600 hours of approved training plus three separate NIC examinations — written theory, practical, and a state jurisprudence exam. In January 2026, the board reduced the passing score from 75% to 70% and updated curriculum requirements across all license types. The total initial cost is approximately $328. Here is exactly how to get your New Mexico cosmetology license.
New Mexico Cosmetology License Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Agency | NM Regulation and Licensing Department, Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists |
| Statutory Authority | NMSA 1978, Chapter 61, Article 17A |
| Minimum Age | 17 years old |
| Education Prerequisite | None (removed by HB 191 in 2022) |
| Training Hours Required | 1,600 hours at a board-approved school |
| Apprenticeship Available? | No — only barbers have an apprenticeship pathway |
| Exam Required | NIC Written Theory + NIC Practical + NM Jurisprudence exam (PCS) |
| Passing Score | 70% (reduced from 75% in January 2026) |
| Exam Fees | $203 combined theory + practical (paid to PCS) |
| License Fee | $100 |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$328 (student permit + exams + license) |
| Renewal Cycle | Annual (expires at end of birth month) |
| Renewal Fee | $100 |
| Continuing Education | None required (practitioners) |
| Apply Online | NM RLD Online Portal |
| Board Website | rld.nm.gov — Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists |
Recent Changes Affecting New Mexico Cosmetology Licensing
NMAC Rule Updates (effective January 13, 2026): The board significantly updated administrative rules. Key changes include: passing score reduced from 75% to 70% on all exam segments, curriculum redistributed with theory hours increased from 75 to 255 and miscellaneous hours eliminated, and increased penalties for working with an expired license ($1,000 first offense, up from $150).
HB 281 — Hair Braider Exemption (effective July 1, 2025): Hair braiding (twisting, wrapping, weaving, extending, locking, or braiding hair using topical agents and mechanical devices) is now exempt from licensure. This does not include cutting, coloring, or chemically altering hair.
SB 113 — Sunset Extension (signed April 7, 2025): The Board’s sunset date was extended to July 1, 2035, ensuring continued operation.
Education & Training Requirements
You must be at least 17 years old to obtain a cosmetology license. The 2022 amendment (HB 191) removed the prior high school education prerequisite; however, students must be at least 16 to enroll in school.
Complete 1,600 hours at a board-approved cosmetology school. The updated curriculum breakdown (effective January 13, 2026):
| Subject | Hours |
|---|---|
| Theory | 255 |
| Sterilization/Sanitation/Bacteriology | 75 |
| Shampoo/Scalp Treatments | 75 |
| Chemical Rearranging | 200 |
| Hairstyling | 150 |
| Hair Coloring | 125 |
| Hair Cutting/Beard Trimming | 250 |
| Facials | 175 |
| Manicuring/Pedicuring | 300 |
| Salon Business/Retail | 50 |
| Total | 1,600 |
Full-time programs typically take 10 to 14 months. No apprenticeship pathway is available for cosmetology.
Scope of practice: Cosmetologists may perform hair services, facials, massage, nail care with extensions, and eyelash/eyebrow work. A cosmetologist cannot perform razor shaving without an additional barber license.
For a comparison of cosmetology requirements across all states, see our complete cosmetology license guide.
Exam Requirements
You must pass three separate examinations, all administered through Professional Credential Services (PCS):
1. NIC Theory (Written) Exam:
- 110 items (100 scored, 10 unscored)
- 90-minute time limit
- Administered at IQT computer testing centers
- Content: Scientific Concepts (35%), Hair Care & Services (45%), additional areas
2. NIC Practical Exam:
- In-person at PCS test sites (Albuquerque and Las Cruces)
- You must bring your own mannequin and supplies
- Theory and practical exams are taken on separate days
3. New Mexico Jurisprudence Exam:
- Covers the Barbers and Cosmetologists Act and NM rules
- Written, multiple-choice, 2-hour time limit
- You may use the Act during the exam
Passing score: 70% on all three segments (reduced from 75% effective January 13, 2026).
Score validity: Passing scores are valid for 2 years from your graduation date. If not licensed within 24 months, you must return to school for at least 150 additional hours.
Application Process & Fees
- Obtain a student permit ($25) and complete 1,600 hours of training
- Register for exams through PCS and pay the $203 exam fee
- Pass all three exams (theory, practical, jurisprudence)
- Apply for your license through the NM RLD Online Portal
- Pay the $100 license fee
| Fee Type | Amount | Paid To |
|---|---|---|
| Student permit | $25 | Board |
| Theory + Practical exam | $203 | PCS |
| Theory retake only | $130 | PCS |
| Practical retake only | $73 | PCS |
| License application | $100 | Board |
| Total Initial Cost | $328 | |
| Annual renewal | $100 | Board |
| Late renewal fee | $40 | Board |
License Renewal & Continuing Education
New Mexico cosmetology licenses expire annually at the end of your birth month. The renewal fee is $100.
No continuing education is required for cosmetology practitioners. Only licensed instructors must complete 24 hours of CE every two years.
Late renewal: A $40 late fee applies. Licenses lapsed up to 1 year may be restored by paying the renewal fee plus late charge. Licenses lapsed 1 to 5 years require re-examination. Licenses lapsed over 5 years require 150 hours of remedial education plus all examinations.
Reciprocity & License Transfer
New Mexico uses an expedited licensure system rather than traditional reciprocity. You must hold a current license in good standing from an approved jurisdiction, have no disqualifying criminal convictions, and pass the New Mexico jurisprudence exam. The expedited license fee is $150, and applications are processed within 30 days.
Disapproved jurisdictions for cosmetology: California, Florida, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Puerto Rico are not approved for expedited licensure due to inconsistent requirements. Applicants from these states must apply as new applicants.
Military exception: Military members, veterans, spouses, and dependent children may hold licenses from any jurisdiction, bypassing the disapproved jurisdictions list.
Military Provisions
Under NMSA 61-1-34, military-connected applicants receive:
- Expedited processing within 30 days
- Three-year licensing fee exemption for military members and veterans
- No geographic restrictions — may hold a license from any U.S. jurisdiction
- Required documentation: DD Form 214 (veterans) or military orders, plus marriage/birth certificates for family members
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a cosmetology license in New Mexico?
Most people complete the process in 11 to 16 months. Full-time programs (1,600 hours) typically take 10 to 14 months. Exam scheduling and license processing add another 2 to 6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a cosmetology license in New Mexico?
The total initial cost is approximately $328: $25 student permit, $203 exam fees (paid to PCS), and $100 license fee. Annual renewal is $100.
Does New Mexico require continuing education for cosmetologists?
No. New Mexico does not require continuing education for cosmetology practitioners. Only instructors must complete 24 hours of CE every two years.
Can I transfer my out-of-state cosmetology license to New Mexico?
Yes, through expedited licensure ($150 fee). You must hold a current license from an approved jurisdiction and pass the New Mexico jurisprudence exam. Several states (including California, Florida, and Texas) are on the disapproved list and require a standard new application.
What is the passing score for the New Mexico cosmetology exam?
As of January 2026, the passing score is 70% on all three exam segments (theory, practical, and jurisprudence), reduced from the previous 75%.
Does New Mexico offer an apprenticeship for cosmetology?
No. Only barbers have an apprenticeship pathway in New Mexico. Cosmetology candidates must complete the 1,600 hours at a licensed school.
Official Resources
- NM Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists (official website)
- Online License Application Portal
- Professional Credential Services (PCS) (exam registration)
- Official Fee Schedule (16.34.14 NMAC)
- Board Contact: (505) 476-4622 | barber.cosmoboard@rld.nm.gov
- Board Address: 2550 Cerrillos Road, Second Floor, Santa Fe, NM 87505