Barber programs in New Mexico are regulated by the state’s Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. They can take as little as seven months to complete. Browse our directory of barber schools in New Mexico, or skip ahead to learn about the state's barber licensing requirements and job outlook.
Browse All Barber Schools in New Mexico
For School Owners
Don't see your school listed? Want to discuss becoming a featured school in the directory? Contact us to learn more.
You must attend a school that meets any licensure requirements as defined by your state. Most states require that you graduate from an accredited or state-approved school.
Related Beauty Careers
Not sure this is the right fit for you? Learn more about other career options in the beauty industry. Related specializations include:
75 hours of theory instruction on topics like barbering laws, first aid, chemistry, and professional imaging
75 hours of instruction in sterilization, sanitation, and bacteriology
75 hours of training in shampoo, rinses, and scalp treatment
200 hours of training in how to perform chemical treatments like perms and relaxers
150 hours of hairstyling instruction
125 hours of hair coloring/bleaching training
250 hours of learning hair-cutting and beard-trimming techniques
175 hours learning to perform facials
You must also perform the following hands-on procedures under the supervision of a barber instructor:
40 face shaves
30 shaves around the neck and ears
25 women’s haircuts
75 men’s haircuts
25 hairstyles
7 perms
7 chemical relaxer treatments
Finally, you need 50 hours of training to prepare you for working in (or running your own!) salon. This includes instruction on topics like obtaining business loans, advertising your services, acting professionally in a barbershop or salon, and other real-world practical skills to set you up for a successful barbering career.
New Mexico Barber License Requirements
Before starting their barber careers, New Mexico barbers must pass a theory and practical exam within 12 months of completing their 1,200 hours of training.
The test is digital, and you receive your score immediately after completing the 110-question, 90-minute test. Note that this score is unofficial, and you'll receive your official score in the mail within a couple of weeks.
The exam tests your knowledge of scientific concepts like infection control and human anatomy; the instruments used in barbering, such as straight razors; hair care services, like shaving and chemical treatments; and facial hair and skin care services, including facial hair design and light therapy.
The practical barber exam tests you on barbering treatments you should be able to perform.
The nine core content areas covered on the test are:
Preparing a client and work area for a haircut
Performing a haircut
Setting up your work area, client, and supplies for shaving with a straight razor
Performing the straight-razor shave
Showing what to do in the event of a blood exposure
Performing a chemical wave
Doing a strand test with a simulated product
Applying a chemical relaxer
Performing a hair-color retouch
You complete these steps and treatments in the order listed above.
You’re also tested on proper labeling and disposal of your equipment. Be sure to check the NIC practical exam CIB for specific requirements.
Upon passing these exams with at least a 70%, you’re eligible for your barber license.
Can I Apprentice as a Barber in New Mexico?
1,200 Apprenticeship Hours
Required to earn a barber license
Yes, you can apprentice as a barber in New Mexico to earn your license. Your apprenticeship must include 1,200 hours of training. After your training, you take the written and practical licensing exams and apply for your license.
New Mexico Barber License Reciprocity
Yes, New Mexico offers reciprocal licenses if your training qualifications match New Mexico’s requirements. If you have fewer than 1,200 training hours, you can count every six months of professional experience toward 150 credit hours.
License Renewal
2 Years
License renewal period
0 Hours
Continuing education required
New Mexico master barber and cosmetology licenses must be renewed every two years. You can renew your license online for a $100 fee. You don’t need continuing education hours to renew your license unless you’re a barber instructor, though it’s never a bad idea to get additional training or attend barber-related expos and conferences to keep your skills fresh.
New Mexico Barber Careers
$39,350
Average yearly salary for barbers
New Mexico didn't have reported barber salaries or growth in 2022. However, nationwide, barbers earned an average of $39,350 per year, and the national expected growth rate is 7% between 2022 and 2023. The best way to determine how much you could earn is by talking to other barbers in your area.
Contact the New Mexico State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
