2023 Best Online Nursing Programs in New Mexico

Becoming a Nurse in New Mexico

Pursuing a nursing career in New Mexico is a rewarding path for those interested in this healthcare profession. The state is experiencing a shortage of all types of nurses, particularly in rural areas. As such, the state of New Mexico has relaxed minimum requirements for nursing professionals so that a recent graduate can obtain a short-term permit to practice under the supervision of a licensed nurse or nurse practitioner (NP).

Below is a breakdown of job growth for various nursing occupations throughout New Mexico:

The New Mexico Board of Nursing (NMBON) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing most types of nursing professionals, with the New Mexico Department of Health also having some responsibility. Read the sections below to learn how to become a CNA, LPN, RN, or APRN in New Mexico.

Nursing Degrees by State

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How To Get CNA Certification in New Mexico

The New Mexico Department of Health regulates the state's Certified Nurse Aide Registry. Prospective CNAs (sometimes called "certified nursing assistants" in other states) must pass the New Mexico Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP). 

New Mexico CNA training must be at least 75 hours and cover the following subject areas:

• Infection control
• Communicating with patients
• Taking vital signs
• Basic nursing skills
• Safety and emergency procedures
• Activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, using the bathroom, and eating

The following documents are required to apply for New Mexico CNA certification:

• Social Security card
• Photo ID or driver's license
• Proof of completion of NATCEP
• Completed criminal background check

CNAs must renew their certification every two years. Applicants must furnish proof of employment each time they renew, and they must also pay a $26.25 renewal fee. 

How To Get an LPN License in New Mexico

To apply for a New Mexico LPN license, applicants must complete a practical nursing program. Practical nursing programs are often offered at high schools, vocational schools, and community colleges. Coursework covers the basics of nursing, including helping with activities of daily living, communicating with patients, and learning how to take vital signs.

Upon completing the educational requirements, applicants must successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for LPNs (NCLEX-PN). Applicants must pay a $200 fee and register to take the exam through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and Pearson VUE. LPN applicants must also submit fingerprints for a criminal background check, which costs $44.00 to complete. Official transcripts from the accepted nursing education program must also be furnished by the applicant to the NMBON.

The renewal process for a New Mexico LPN license occurs every two years. If applicants allow their New Mexico LPN license to expire, they must fill out an Expired/Lapsed Attestation (ELA) form within five business days of submitting the renewal application.

How To Get an RN License in New Mexico

To get a New Mexico RN license, applicants must complete an educational program approved by the NMBON. Once completed, applicants must submit the following documents to complete their application:

• Fingerprints and a criminal background check, which costs $44.00
• An application fee of $110
• Registration to take the nursing licensure exam (NCLEX-RN), which costs $200.00

Applicants may take the NCLEX-RN once the application for examination is approved. After passing, they will receive their RN licenses.

Applicants who apply immediately after graduating from their nursing program may be eligible for a practicing permit. A current employer must submit proof of employment on the applicant's behalf. The application for the permit must arrive within 12 weeks of the graduation date. Upon passing the NCLEX-RN, applicants can receive a full New Mexico RN license.

New Mexico RN licenses are valid for two years before needing renewal. Per NMBON regulations, all New Mexico nursing license holders must complete continuing education competency in order to renew their credentials.

Examples of potential continuing education topics include the following:

How To Get an APRN License in New Mexico

Advanced practice registered nurses in New Mexico must first have their New Mexico RN license. APRNs in New Mexico must earn a graduate degree (master's level or doctorate) with a specialty. Specialties can include any of the following areas of nursing:

• Nurse practitioner (NP)
• Clinical nurse specialist (CNS)
• Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)

Applicants for a New Mexico APRN license must submit the following to the NMBON:

• Proof of New Mexico nursing license (RN)
• An application fee of $100
• Evidence of national certification
• Extra documentation if the applicant wants the authority to prescribe controlled substances

New Mexico APRN licenses last for two years, at which point they must be renewed. Renewal is granted if the applicant completes continuing education hours and maintains national certification. APRNs with the authority to prescribe controlled substances will need to complete extra continuing education in that subject area.

FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in New Mexico