RN Warehouse

New Mexico nursing license rules

Compact state

RN and LPN · Last checked October 29, 2026 · Sources

New Mexico is a compact state (since January 2018). If your primary state of residence is another compact state and you hold a multistate license, you can work in New Mexico in person or by telehealth without a new license. If you live in New Mexico, your multistate license is issued here.

RN renewalEvery 2 years
RN CE hours per cycle30
RN endorsement fee$150
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
When it expires
End of birth month (renewal month), every 2 years
Renewal fee
$110
Continuing education
30 contact hours per renewal cycle
Required CE topics
None found on the board's pages.
Endorsement fee
$150
Fingerprints for endorsement
Yes, a criminal background check with fingerprints
Temporary permit
Available. $60 temporary license in fee schedule; endorsement use not described on board page
How to apply
Online application via Nurse Portal; verification via Nursys or state of original licensure; fingerprints through Idemia/IdentoGo. CE not required for initial endorsement, due at first renewal.

Moving or traveling

Moving to New Mexico from another compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state within 60 days (rule effective 2024-01-02). May keep practicing on the old multistate license until the new one is issued; the old one is then deactivated. Can apply before moving.

Moving here from a non-compact state? Apply by endorsement in the new home state; a multistate license may be issued if residency and uniform requirements (incl. state and federal fingerprint background checks) are met. The old single-state license is unaffected.

Check another state

Board of nursing

New Mexico Board of Nursing

Licenses: RN, LPN

Board home · Renewal · Endorsement · CE rules
This page summarizes New Mexico's rules from the board's own pages as of October 29, 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with the board before you apply or renew. Spotted something out of date? Email [email protected].

Sources