New Mexicoesthetician license & exam requirements
NIC national examHow to get licensed as an esthetician in New Mexico: training hours, board exam format, vendor, and how to prepare — researched from the official New Mexico board.
- 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.
Free esthetician practice questions →New Mexico esthetician license FAQ
Does New Mexico use the NIC esthetician exam?
Yes. New Mexico uses the NIC national esthetics theory examination, administered by Prometric.
How many training hours does New Mexico require for an esthetician license?
600
How do I get an esthetician license in New Mexico?
Complete the required training hours (600), satisfy the written exam requirement (NIC national exam, vendor Prometric), and apply through the New Mexico board. Always confirm current rules on the official board site.
Where can I practice for the New Mexico esthetician or cosmetology-related board exam?
PrepTempo's Esthetician State Board course covers the NIC national theory core (infection control, skin science, analysis, and treatments) with free sample questions and free Chapter 1. Study New Mexico law-and-rules from your board on top of the core.
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.