New Mexico esthetician exam
NIC national examWhat it takes to get licensed as an esthetician in New Mexico, from the state's official board and exam vendor.
- License
- Esthetician
- Training hours
- 600
- Written exam
- NIC national exam
- Exam vendor
- Professional Credential Services (PCS); computer-based theory delivered through IQT (Iso-Quality Testing, Prometric-owned) test centers
Exam details & notes
Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists contracts with PCS, which exclusively uses NIC examinations. Three exams required: NIC theory, NIC practical, and a separate State Law theory exam. NIC theory is 90 min multiple-choice CBT. Passing score lowered to 70 effective 1/13/2026 (older CIB said 75). Older PCS bulletin routed theory through PSI centers; current PCS page says IQT. All exams must be passed within 24 months of completing training or 150 hours of remedial education is required. Fees per old CIB: theory $115, practical $60.
Some details for New Mexico were ambiguous on the official board site when we researched this (July 2026) — double-check the specifics with the board before you rely on them.
Preparing for the New Mexico exam
PrepTempo's Esthetician course covers the NIC national theory core — infection control, skin sciences, skin analysis, and treatments. That's exactly what New Mexico's NIC exam tests. Study your New Mexico law-and-rules section from the board on top of the core.
Start the Esthetician course →Official sources
Educational information only, researched July 2026 — not legal or licensing advice. Requirements change; confirm with the New Mexico board. PrepTempo is not affiliated with any state board, the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC), or any exam vendor, and they do not endorse this product.