Licensure Extensions

Licensure Updates

License extension applications will be open from January 1, 2026, and remain open until 11:59 PM on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The extension application will be open/available only during this period.

Update: If you allowed your license to expire, you will need to reapply by selecting ‘NEW (INITIAL)’ as the application type and choosing the original pathway you applied for.

Please upload a signed letter from your district/charter HR administrator requesting the extension. The letter should outline how they plan to support you in meeting your remaining requirements.

Once you’ve submitted the application, kindly email Jenna.Jaquez@ped.nm.gov your license number so she can update her records. Thank you!

FAQ

1. Do I need the support of my employer and the NM Educator Prep Program?
   Yes, please obtain a letter of support from the Educator Prep Program and upload it to the application. Then, notify your employer that the application is awaiting their review/approval.
2. Do I need my employer’s support if I’m on the OPAL (Online Portfolio) pathway?
   Yes, after applying for the extension, please notify your employer (district/charter/school agency) that the application is awaiting their review/approval.
3. How do I obtain support?
   Contact your HR administrator’s office and the Dean of the Educator Prep Program you are attending.
4. Does the employer have to add approval to the application?
   Yes, the Professional Licensure Bureau will not approve an extension for incomplete applications.
5. What if I’m not employed by a district/charter/school agency?
   We cannot honor an extension if you do not have a solid plan added to the extension application to be completed by your employer (district/charter/school agency).
6. What does incomplete application mean?
   This means the application lacks the required information and supporting documents, and/or the employer (district/charter/school agency) has not completed their application section.
7. Is there a fee for requesting an extension this year?
   Yes, there is a fee, which is $120.00.
8. Can 1CS licensure request an extension this year?
   Yes, after applying for the extension, please notify your employer (district/charter/school agency) that the application is awaiting their review/approval.
9. Can an alternative license that has expired request an extension?
   No, educators must apply for full licensure in the licensure portal, pay the fee, and upload supporting documents for the licensure they seek.
10. Can a level one teacher request an extension for the Micro-Credentials?
    You will apply for the extension if you have taught all five (5) years and completed 2 or more micro-credential modules. If you have not taught all five (5) years, you must apply for renewal and upload the notarized statement for unused years request form.
11. When is the deadline to submit an alternative extension request?
    You have until 11:59 pm, Monday, June 30, 2025, to submit the extension application. This also includes administrator approval.
12. Which pathway do I select?
    **Please use the appropriate pathway when applying. See below.

Pathways:

• EPP—Educator Prep Program (i.e., LEAP, CNM, SFCC, etc.).
• OPAL—Online Portfolio.
• Alternative Post-Secondary—If you initially applied via teaching at the college level.
• Micro-Credentials—You hold a five- (5) year license and have completed two more micro-credential modules, but you need more time to complete them for advancement.
• One-Year Certificate (1CS)—If you have completed a teaching program but lack the exams.
• Teacher Resident—If you have not completed your teacher resident program and need more time before applying for initial licensure (not to be confused with alternative licensure).

Other common FAQs.

This only applies primarily to level one (1) teachers.

1. What if I was not aware I needed to advance after teaching five years?
   You will apply for the extension and upload the Notarized statement – licensure extension for Micro-Credentials. This form must be completed by both parties (you and your HR/School Administrator) and must be notarized at the district/charter level.
2. What if I did not teach all five years on my level 1 license (for those who have completed a standard or alternative teaching program)?
   You will apply for RENEWAL and upload a Notarized Statement for Unused Years.
3. What if I did not complete OPAL, my coursework and/or exams?
   You will apply for an extension. See the above instructions.
4. What if I have not completed my micro-credentials?
   You will apply for an extension. You should have the Notarized statement – licensure extension for Micro-Credentials on file. If not, you must complete it with your district/charter/school agency HR administrator.