New Mexico Cosmetology Licensing

Education Requirements for Cosmetologists in New Mexico

People in New Mexico want to look great no matter what the occasion is, but not everyone has what it takes to create a great style. You could help people all over New Mexico look fabulous, from children getting their first haircut to young people who follow the latest trends and older adults who like consistency. You can work with different people every day when you earn a New Mexico cosmetology license!

The field of cosmetology is overseen on a state-by-state basis, rather than a federal one. As long as you are licensed in New Mexico, the New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists is the agency responsible for your cosmetology education and licensure. To meet NM state cosmetology licensing requirements, you must complete very specific training in the field of cosmetology.

According to the Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists, the following subjects must be taught in a cosmetology program:

• Cutting and styling hair
• Hair braiding
• Chemical relaxing and waving
• Facial and scalp massage
• Shampooing, bleaching, and coloring hair
• Application of cosmetic preparations
• Manicures and pedicures
• Wigs and hairpieces
• Beard trimming with clippers and scissors

Depending on the school you attend, you may get to complete other types of education. If there is time left in your training, you may go to job interviews, attend beauty events, work on specific customer service skills and standards, and otherwise explore careers in the beauty industry.

The school you attend is the foundation for your beauty career. Find the right school for you by checking out our list of New Mexico beauty schools below.

New Mexico Cosmetology License Requirements

Your education is the first part of getting a New Mexico cosmetology license. Once you have met the educational requirements, you have to pass two licensing exams. The first is a theory exam, which you complete on the computer. The second is a practical exam, which looks at your ability to properly perform different procedures.

These are the specific requirements for a cosmetology license in NM:

• $115 theory testing fee and $60 practical testing fee
• Fees paid by cashier’s check, money order, credit card
• $50 licensing fee
• $25 student permit registration
• 1600 hours of education required

Keeping the reputation of the beauty industry strong is one of the best ways to keep this field relevant and make sure it meets customers’ needs. The licensing process is important because it gives customers confidence that the cosmetologist they choose has been trained to state-approved minimum standards. When everyone is held to the same standards in this industry, the industry as a whole gets stronger.

Requirements for Renewing Your Cosmetology License in New Mexico

Even if you have been licensed as a cosmetologist in other states, you’ll find that NM cosmetology license renewal is a bit different from the renewal process in most other states. To continue working as a cosmetologist after your initial licensing period, you have to renew your cosmetology license on an annual basis by the last day of your birth month.

The renewal fee is currently set at $50. If your application is postmarked after the last day of the month, you must also pay a $40 late fee. During each annual renewal cycle, you have to complete 12 hours of continuing education at an approved location.

The cosmetology industry is one that offers lots of flexibility and freedom. Make your move now and contact cosmetology programs in New Mexico.

Find Cosmetology Programs in New Mexico