New Mexico licenses barbers through the Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists, part of the Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD). You need a New Mexico barber license to legally perform hair cutting, shaving, beard grooming, scalp treatments, and other barbering services for compensation.
New Mexico requires 1,200 hours of training plus three NIC examinations. Barbering is the only license type in New Mexico that offers an apprenticeship pathway. The passing score was reduced to 70% in January 2026. Total initial cost is approximately $328. Here is exactly how to get your New Mexico barber license.
New Mexico Barber License Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Agency | NM RLD, 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 | 1,200 hours at a board-approved school |
| Apprenticeship Available? | Yes — registered apprenticeship program (24 months max) |
| Exam Required | NIC Barber Theory + NIC Practical + NM Jurisprudence exam |
| Passing Score | 70% (reduced from 75% in January 2026) |
| Exam Fees | $203 combined (paid to PCS) |
| License Fee | $100 |
| Total Initial Cost | ~$328 |
| 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 |
Education & Training Requirements
Complete 1,200 hours at a board-approved barber school. The updated curriculum (effective January 13, 2026) significantly increased theory and hair cutting hours:
- Theory: 205 hours (increased from 75)
- Sterilization/Sanitation/Bacteriology: 75 hours
- Shampoo/Scalp Treatments: 75 hours
- Chemical Rearranging: 200 hours
- Hairstyling: 150 hours
- Hair Coloring: 125 hours
- Hair Cutting/Beard Trimming: 330 hours (increased from 250)
- Salon Business/Retail: 50 hours
Required hands-on minimums include 40 facial shaves, 30 shavings around ears/neck, 25 ladies haircuts, 75 mens haircuts, 25 hairstylings, 7 permanent waves, and 7 permanent relaxers.
Full-time programs typically take 8 to 10 months.
Apprenticeship pathway: New Mexico offers a registered apprenticeship for barbers only. The apprentice license costs $25, is valid for up to 36 months, and you must complete the program within 24 months. Practical training occurs in a licensed establishment under a licensed barber instructor.
Crossover pathway: Barbers may obtain a combined barber/cosmetology license by completing a crossover course in cosmetology and passing the appropriate exams ($100 fee).
At 1,200 hours, New Mexico’s barber requirement is near the national average. See our barber license guide for state-by-state comparisons. For a full comparison of scope, see our barber vs cosmetology license guide.
Exam Requirements
You must pass three exams through PCS: the NIC Barber Theory exam (110 items, 90 minutes), the NIC Barber Practical exam (in-person), and the New Mexico Jurisprudence exam (2-hour written). Passing score is 70% on all segments. Scores are valid for 2 years from graduation.
Application Process & Fees
- Obtain a student permit ($25) and complete 1,200 hours of training
- Register for exams through PCS ($203 combined fee)
- Pass all three exams
- Apply online and pay the $100 license fee
Total initial cost: approximately $328.
License Renewal & Continuing Education
Licenses expire annually at the end of your birth month. Renewal fee is $100. Late fee is $40. No continuing education is required for barber practitioners.
Reciprocity & License Transfer
New Mexico offers expedited licensure ($150) for applicants with a current license from an approved jurisdiction plus a passing jurisprudence exam score. Disapproved jurisdictions for barbers: Florida, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Military Provisions
Military members, veterans, spouses, and dependents receive expedited processing within 30 days, a three-year fee exemption, and bypass of the disapproved jurisdictions list.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a barber license in New Mexico?
Most people complete the process in 9 to 12 months. Full-time programs take 8 to 10 months, with exams and processing adding 2 to 6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a barber license in New Mexico?
Approximately $328: $25 student permit, $203 exam fees, and $100 license fee.
Does New Mexico offer an apprenticeship for barbers?
Yes. New Mexico is the only beauty license type with an apprenticeship pathway. The apprentice license is $25, valid for up to 36 months, with a 24-month completion requirement.
Can I transfer my barber license from another state?
Yes, through expedited licensure ($150). You must be from an approved jurisdiction and pass the jurisprudence exam. Florida, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are on the disapproved list.
What is the difference between a barber and cosmetologist in New Mexico?
Barbers require 1,200 hours and focus on hair cutting, shaving, and beard services. Cosmetologists require 1,600 hours and cover hair, skin, and nails. Barbers can perform razor shaving; cosmetologists cannot without an additional barber license.
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