New Mexico Hair Braiding School and Requirements

Specializing in hair braiding can lead to a fun, creative career. Although there isn’t a specific hair braiding license in New Mexico, that doesn’t mean you can start working without any formal training. Instead, you must first gain a license in cosmetology or hairstyling. Keep reading to discover what each program covers, how much you can earn, and more.

Browse our directory of hair braiding schools in New Mexico, or skip ahead to learn about the state's hair braiding licensing requirements and job outlook.

School Programs for New Mexico Hair Braiders

Unlike many other states that don’t cover the topic, New Mexico includes braiding in the cosmetology and hairstylist curriculums. Earning either license allows you to not only braid but also offer haircuts and chemical services—something braiders or natural hair stylists are almost never allowed to do in the US.

Cosmetology students attend 1,600 school hours, learning about hair, skin, and nails. They also take classes in science and client interactions.

READ MORE: Learn More About Cosmetology School in New Mexico

Conversely, hairstylist students attend 1,200 hours of hair-related learning. They also take science and client work classes, but nail and skin topics aren't part of their work.

READ MORE: Learn More About Hair Design School in New Mexico

After your training, you need to pass New Mexico cosmetology law and NIC theory and practical exams to get your hair or cosmetology license,

Salary for Hair Braiders in New Mexico

Gathering accurate salary data for hair braiders is difficult, as many practitioners are home-based, and the data available usually isn’t specific to braiding.

According to the Bureau of Labor Services (BLS), hairstylists in New Mexico earn an average of $28,810 per year, or $13.85 per hour—below the mean national wage of $38,910 per year. However, New Mexico's cost of living is also lower than the national average, so earning slightly less may not have such an impact on day-to-day life.

These stats don’t include data for self-employed people—but according to ZipRecruiter.com, a freelance hairstylist in New Mexico can expect to earn significantly more, with an average salary of $42,442 per year, or $20 per hour.

ZipRecruiter also provides data specifically for hair braiders, with an average reported salary of $35,002 per year, or $17 per hour, as of March 2024. The data is based on recent job listings, so it may change frequently as new roles are advertised.

The site also reports that home-based braiders earn slightly more, with an average of $38,471 a year—though it’s unclear exactly what data this is based on.

Though New Mexico might not be the best-paid location for cosmetologists, hairstylist roles in the state are projected to grow by 15% between 2020 and 2030.

Contact the New Mexico State Board of Cosmetology