Have a Degree? Add a Teaching License
Wondering how to earn a teaching license with a bachelor’s degree? Explore this page and download our free Licensing Guide!
What kind of teaching program should I look for?
Have a bachelor's? You can decide whether to start teaching right away or finish a teaching program before you lead your own classroom.
Most teaching programs work like this: You’ll take classes to learn how to teach—then finish your program with an internship or student teaching placement. There, you’ll work in a classroom alongside an experienced mentor teacher.
This can be a good option if you:
- Have less experience with students or your subject matter.
- Want more hands-on mentorship before you lead your own classroom.
How to Earn Your New Mexico Teaching License
- 1
Decide what you want to teach.
Before you enroll in a teaching program, you’ll need to know the subject and grade level you want to teach. These will determine the specific teaching license you earn.
- 2
Look for state-approved teaching programs.
Make sure to look for programs that are state-approved and offer your chosen teaching license!
You can find alternative licensure, licensure-only or combined master’s degree + teaching license programs in New Mexico.
Explore New Mexico teaching programs. - 3
Apply to teaching programs and enroll.
TEACH New Mexico can help make program applications a breeze! Get free guides & downloadable templates for resumes, personal statements and more.
Keep in mind that if your degree is in a subject other than the one you want to teach, you may need to take a few additional classes before you begin. Check your program’s coursework requirements!
- 4
Pass New Mexico licensing tests.
Before you get licensed, you’ll usually need to pass one or more Praxis exams in your subject. The Praxis is meant to show you know your stuff well enough to teach it. It covers content in your subject area, as well as specific teaching strategies.
You’ll usually take the Praxis around the time you finish your teaching program. Not sure where to start with test prep? We’ve got tools for that too! Our Praxis Guide covers everything from registration to study tools to what to expect on test day.
If you complete a teaching portfolio in your teaching program, you may not need to take the Praxis! Your program can give you more information.
- 5
Complete a background check.
To get your teaching license, you'll need to complete a fingerprint background check. The New Mexico Public Education Department will evaluate any criminal history on a case-by-case basis. (1)
- 6
Apply for your New Mexico teaching license.
Almost there! Your teaching program may need to confirm that you’re eligible to apply for your teaching license.
Once you get confirmation, you’ll create an account through the Public Education Department’s online portal. You’ll use this account for your license application.
Get the Free Guide
The TEACH New Mexico Licensing Guide covers everything you need to start your journey. Get details about teaching pathways, teaching license subject areas and steps to licensure, all in one place!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s next
TEACH New Mexico Program Explorer
Find undergrad, graduate and alternative licensure teaching programs in New Mexico.
Find ProgramsCareer Coaching in New Mexico
Talk to an experienced local educator about how to become a licensed teacher in New Mexico. Get free advice on how to choose what subject and grade to teach and apply to the right program.
Read MoreApplications Made Easy | Teaching License
Applying to teaching programs or jobs? Get step-by-step advice and free templates to make your application stand out.
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Enter your email to get FREE resources for future New Mexico teachers—from tailored advising to funding opportunities and more. Already signed up? Sign in at the top of the page to access your dashboard.
References
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Licensure Background Information, New Mexico Public Education Department.
https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/bureaus/licensure/background-submission/ -
Educator Pay Data, National Education Association. October 17, 2024.
https://www.nea.org/resource-library/educator-pay-and-student-spending-how-does-your-state-rank