Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in New Mexico
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NM
How to Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in New Mexico
To become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in New Mexico, you must complete a state-approved training program of at least 75 hours, including classroom and clinical instruction. After training, you'll need to pass the New Mexico CNA Competency Exam, administered by Headmaster LLP/TMU, which includes a knowledge test and a clinical skills test. Upon successful completion, your name will be placed on the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry, maintained by the New Mexico Health Care Authority. New Mexico offers reciprocity for CNAs certified in other states, with no associated fee.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Requirements in New Mexico
| Detail | New Mexico |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | New Mexico Health Care Authority |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 75-hour state-approved training program |
| Experience Required | 8.0 hours |
| Exam | New Mexico CNA Competency Exam (administered by Headmaster LLP/TMU) ($107) |
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age varies by training program (16-18 years old). Renewal requires having worked for pay as a CNA for at least 8 hours within the past 24 months. Some training programs may require a high school diploma or GED, criminal background check, and drug test. The state may pay exam fees for candidates employed by a Medicaid-certified nursing facility. |
Source: New Mexico Health Care Authority
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in New Mexico
The median certified nursing assistant salary in New Mexico is $37,030 per year, which is 6.3% below the national median of $39,530.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $30,820 |
| 25th | $35,290 |
| 50th (median) | $37,030 |
| 75th | $42,610 |
| 90th (experienced) | $46,450 |
New Mexico employs approximately 4,600 certified nursing assistants.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in New Mexico Worth It?
Factors to consider: New Mexico's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, and your personal career goals.