Cosmetologist Instructor License in New Mexico
Quick Answer
To become a licensed cosmetologist in New Mexico, you must complete approved training, pass a third-party exam, and clear a background check. Expedited processing is available for military spouses. Estimated costs are approximately $225.
- Education Required
- 1600 hours
- Exam
- New Mexico Cosmetology Exam (NIC)
- Total Cost
- $225 (est.)
- Timeline
- 9-14 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Cosmetologist Instructor license in New Mexico
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $50
- Exam Fee
- $75
- Renewal Fee
- $35
- Total Estimated Cost
- $225
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Cosmetologist Instructor 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.
Cosmetologist Instructor Salary in New Mexico
Entry Level
$25,950
Median
$28,150
Experienced
$62,400
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Cosmetologist Instructor in New Mexico.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — New Mexico Cosmetology Exam (NIC)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$50.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 9-14 months.
Cosmetologist Instructor Licensing in New Mexico: What to Know
New Mexico's COS data primarily lists the 'Cosmetologist Instructor' license rather than the base cosmetologist license. The NM Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists under the Regulation and Licensing Department oversees all cosmetology licensing. Background checks are required. Expedited processing is available for military spouses. Albuquerque and Santa Fe are the primary markets, with Santa Fe's art community creating unique demand for creative styling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Cosmetologist Instructor license cost in New Mexico?
- The estimated total cost is $225, including application fees, exam fees ($75), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Cosmetologist Instructor license in New Mexico?
- The process typically takes 9-14 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Cosmetologist Instructor license in New Mexico?
- You need to pass the New Mexico Cosmetology Exam (NIC). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Cosmetologist Instructor requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.