Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New Mexico
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NM
How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New Mexico
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New Mexico, individuals must complete a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The licensing body is the New Mexico Board of Nursing. A criminal background check is required for all applicants. New Mexico is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows LPNs with a multistate license from another compact state to practice in New Mexico, though a New Mexico multistate license is necessary if the state becomes their primary residence.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Requirements in New Mexico
| Detail | New Mexico |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | New Mexico Board of Nursing |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program |
| Exam | NCLEX-PN ($200) |
| Application Fee | $150 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 30.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | A criminal background check is required. New Mexico is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, allowing LPNs with a multistate license from another NLC state to practice in New Mexico. If New Mexico becomes the primary state of residence, a New Mexico multistate license must be obtained. There is no specified minimum age for LPN licensure, but for school LPNs, the minimum age is 18. |
Source: New Mexico Board of Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary in New Mexico
The median licensed practical nurse salary in New Mexico is $60,760 per year, which is 2.5% below the national median of $62,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $37,980 |
| 25th | $38,720 |
| 50th (median) | $60,760 |
| 75th | $65,890 |
| 90th (experienced) | $75,640 |
New Mexico employs approximately 1,850 licensed practical nurses.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Job Outlook
AI Impact on Licensed Practical Nurses
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.51/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in New Mexico Worth It?
Factors to consider: New Mexico's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.