New Mexico Contractor & Trade License Requirements
New Mexico requires statewide contractor licensing for all construction trades through the Construction Industries Division (CID) under the Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD). Every contractor must employ a Qualifying Party (QP) who holds the appropriate trade license. All trades require both a Business and Law exam and a trade-specific exam. Licenses are issued in specific classifications and renewed every 3 years.
General Contractor
RequiredElectrician
RequiredPlumber
RequiredHVAC Technician
RequiredRoofing Contractor
RequiredReciprocity Agreements
New Mexico has reciprocity agreements with 6 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams.
New Mexico Licensing Overview
New Mexico requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 contractor trades. The licensed trades — general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor — are regulated by the Regulation and Licensing Department, Construction Industries Division (CID). Across all licensed trades, initial costs range from $401 to $586, including application fees, exams, and license issuance. New Mexico also participates in reciprocity agreements with 6 other states, which can streamline the process for out-of-state contractors.
New Mexico Contractor License Cost Summary
| Trade | Application | Exam | License | Bond | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Contractor | $36 | $250 | $300 | $10,000 | $586 |
| Electrician | $36 | $250 | $300 | $10,000 | $586 |
| Plumber | $36 | $65 | $300 | $10,000 | $401 |
| HVAC Technician | $36 | $65 | $300 | $10,000 | $401 |
| Roofing Contractor | $36 | $65 | $300 | $10,000 | $401 |
Estimated totals include application, exam, license, and fingerprinting fees. Bond amounts are separate and typically paid as an annual premium.
Key Facts About New Mexico Contractor Licensing
- Workers compensation coverage is required for all licensed entities in New Mexico
- New Mexico has reciprocity agreements with 6 states, which may allow licensed contractors to skip certain exams.
- EPA 608 certification also required for refrigerant handling
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Mexico require a contractor license?
Yes, New Mexico requires statewide licensing for 5 of 5 trades: general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor.
How much does a contractor license cost in New Mexico?
Initial licensing costs range from $401 to $586 depending on the trade, including application, exam, and license fees.
Does New Mexico have license reciprocity with other states?
Yes, New Mexico has reciprocity agreements with 6 states. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
Do I need workers compensation insurance in New Mexico?
Workers compensation coverage is required for all licensed entities in New Mexico
Official New Mexico Licensing Resources
- Regulation and Licensing Department, Construction Industries Division (CID) — for general contractor, electrician, plumber, hvac technician, roofing contractor