On this page, we’ll go over the steps to get licensed to teach in New Mexico, plus answer some commonly asked questions about teacher licensing.
Let’s dive in!
On this page:
How to Earn Your New Mexico Teaching License
- 1
Look for bachelor’s + teaching license programs.
Many teaching programs let you combine a bachelor’s degree and teaching license—so you can get licensed while you finish your undergraduate coursework.
You’ll need a degree to teach most subjects. That said, if you want to teach Native American Language and Culture OR a skilled trade, you may not need a degree if you have other experience. Check out the FAQs for more info!
- 2
Apply to programs and enroll.
Once you’ve found a few programs that interest you and work with your lifestyle, you can start applying!
Let TEACH New Mexico help you apply to teaching programs! Get our free guides and downloadable templates for personal essays, resumes and letters of recommendation. Get application help.
- 3
Decide what you want to teach.
You don’t need to know what you want to teach when you start college! You’ll usually declare a major and choose your teaching subject partway through your program. It’s helpful if your major and future teaching subject match.
Getting licensed in a shortage area subject—such as special education, science or bilingual education—provides more job opportunities!
- 4
Pass New Mexico licensure tests, if needed.
Before you get licensed, you may 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.
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, subject areas and steps to a teaching license, all in one place!
It’s completely free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Become a Native American Language and Culture Teacher
Speak a Native language? Share it with students in New Mexico!
Start your teaching career with the Native American Language and Culture Certificate (Pre K-12).
Learn more: Visit the New Mexico Public Education Department
Pro tip: Your certificate can open doors to additional subjects and ages. Get free guidance from a TEACH New Mexico coach.
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 | Apply to Earn a Teaching License
Applying to teaching programs or jobs? Get step-by-step advice and free templates for your resume and essay to make your application stand out. Then use our guide to recommendation letters to seal the deal.
Read MoreSign Up for Free Resources
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
(1) Licensure Background Information, New Mexico Public Education Department. https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/bureaus/licensure/background-submission/
(2) 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/
