New Mexico Teacher Licensure

Short answer: No. 

Longer answer: To teach in New Mexico public schools, you’ll eventually need a teaching license. But if you have a bachelor’s degree or vocational work experience, you may qualify for alternative pathways that put you in the classroom faster!

• Do you have a bachelor’s degree? Alternative licensure programs let you start teaching while you earn your teaching license. These programs typically take less time and cost less than traditional licensure programs. 
• Are you a tradesperson? If you have vocational work experience, you may be able to get licensed to teach a Vocational-Technical subject—and you may not need a degree! Vocational positions may be available in fields such as automotive repair, health sciences, hospitality, skilled trades and others. (1)

It depends on your background and the type of teaching program you choose!

Here’s what you can expect for most programs:

Traditional Teaching Programs

• Bachelor’s degree + teaching license: About 4 years
• Master’s degree + teaching license: 1–3 years

Alternative Teaching Programs

• Alternative licensure: 1–2 years
• Licensure-only: Up to 1 year

New Mexico has several levels of teaching licenses. You’ll typically start with a Level 1 teaching license. 

To advance to a Level 2 and Level 3 teaching license, you’ll need to gain years of experience and meet certain criteria, such as completing professional development courses. (2)

In New Mexico, a Level 1 teaching license is valid for five years.

Want to advance to a Level 2 license, but need more time to complete the requirements? You may be able to apply for an extension. (3)

“Reciprocity” is the term used to describe what each state requires in order to transfer your license from one state to another.

In New Mexico, you may be able to transfer your out-of-state credential and receive a license to begin teaching in a New Mexico school. 

To learn more, visit the Public Education Department’s Licensure page and click on the teaching license you want to hold in New Mexico.