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Licensure Frequently Asked Questions

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Printable FAQ

How can I contact the Professional Licensure Bureau (PLB)?

Phone: 505-827-5800, Option 1 for Licensure; Option 2 for Backgrounds

Email: LicensureUnit@ped.nm.gov

Licensure Bureau Webpage

Ethics (Investigations)

  1. How do I report improper or illegal behavior on the part of a school district employee?

1a. My license shows that it is pending on your database. What does this mean?

  • It could mean one of the following:
    • Your background check has not been received by our office;
    • Your background was received and your file is under review in our Background department Background Unit
  1. When registering for my Background Check through Cogent what ORI number do I use?
  • You would register using Reason Code: Teacher Licensure, ORI# NM920140Z
  1. I did a background check for the school can I use it for licensure?
  • PED does not accept background checks done for any other reason than “Teacher Licensure” using PED’s ORI #.
  • ALL INITIAL LICENSURE APPLICANTS MUST USE ORI# NM920140Z & Reason Code: TEACHER LICENSURE
  1. Do I need to pay the $75 processing fee for the background check?
  • The $75 processing fee is an old processing fee. The current processing fee is $59 ($67.00 on October 1, 2026) and that is paid to IdentoGO when registering online.
  1. How do I get fingerprint cards?
  • Fingerprint cards are only for out of state applicants and can be obtained by sending an email to Ethics.Ethics@ped.nm.gov including a complete name and mailing address.
  1. How long does it take for a background check to come back?
  • If you have been fingerprinted via Live Scan process PED will receive results usually within 72 hours after you have been fingerprinted. Out-of-state hard card submissions take 12-14 weeks to process; this does not include mailing time.
  1. How long are background check reports valid for?
  • Background check reports are valid for 2 years from the date the FBI processes them.
  1. I received a reprint notice, what do I need to do?
  • You will need to return to an approved fingerprint location and let them know that you need to be re-fingerprinted. There is not a fee for reprinting.
  1. What documents are required to clear my background and where do I get them?
  • Each arrest listed on the FBI report requires court documents to clear them. Based on the individuals charges, documents can come from district or metro court depending on the city/state the arrest took place. That is the first place to ask for documents for each arrest. Acceptable court documents are: Order of Dismissal of Charges, Completion of Sentencing, A letter from the court of record(on court letterhead), stating the file no longer exists or has been purged per court retention rules.
  1. What is a narrative?
  • It is a written explanation, stating in your words what occurred that result in your being arrested. Outline the details that resulted in the charges and the outcome after the arrest. Narrative must have your written signature (no electronic) to be valid for acceptance.
  1. Fingerprints were taken 10 day/weeks ago why isn’t it showing in the database?
  • To ensure all educators meet the required standards for licensure and employment,

NM PED Licensure Bureau has been diligently enforcing existing licensure rules and regulations.

Due to the increased diligence, NM PED Licensure has stopped opening licensure database files with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) results. Database files will now only be opened with an application. While we attempt to match background reports with new files daily, it is not always feasible. However, all new files will be matched no later than Friday afternoon of each week. Unmatched files will be held for 2 years.

  1. Request for copy of background was sent __ days ago and we still have not received a copy, why?
  • We have not received the FBI report or they have not applied for licensure and the results are in the unmatched files awaiting an application. AS of April 1, 2017 we are no longer sending background copies until they have applied for licensure and have a file opened.
  1. How do I get a copy of my background check report?
  • Requests need to be made by emailing StephanieJ.Lujan@ped.nm.gov to request the form. Upon completion,you will email it back to her with a copy of your driver’s license.

NOTE:  You must have a cleared background for Teacher Licensure to be eligible for a copy of your background.

Becoming Licensed

Licensure-Submitting an Application Packet for Licensure

  1. What is a file number?
  • Your file number is the 6-digit number, which is the same as your license number.
  1. What is a complete application submission?
  • A complete application submission is an application submitted online through our eLicensing portal, which must be signed and dated. It includes official or unofficial transcripts from all colleges or universities attended (preferably sent by the college/university’s third-party eScrip service to LicensureUnit@ped.nm.gov, and any supporting documentation as listed in the instructions on the application.  If the application is incomplete, no license will be issued until all required documents are received and reviewed.
  1. What are the fees?
  1. What forms of payment are accepted?
  • As of May 1, 2020, we no longer accept Money Order or Cashier’s Check. Educators must now register in our new eLicensing portal and can pay online via credit card (Visa, Mastercard and Discover)
  1. Are the fees refundable if I am not eligible for a license?
  • No, the fee is an application processing fee. It does not pay for a license.
  1. What address do I send my application packet to?
  • We no longer accept paper applications and money orders/cashiers check via mail. Educators must register in our eLicensing portal (if they haven’t already done so) to apply and pay online https://licensureapp.ped.state.nm.us/
  1. What if my application is not complete?
  • One of our licensing specialists will email you to request the missing items. Incomplete applications will delay processing time, so review your application submission before finalizing it in the licensing system.
  1. What is the process once my application has been received?
  • A licensure specialist will verify the application is complete after verification of a current background is on file. A thorough review will take place next to ensure all requirements are met. The license will be issued. You can monitor your licensure portal account for updates to the licensure application 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  1. How long will it take for my application to be reviewed?
  • Upon average, 20 business days absent any need for further review and follow-up by the NMPED and applicant. This is subject to change due to high peak seasons.
  1. How can I expedite the process?
  • There is no option for expediting initial licensure applications except for Military/spouse personnel and veterans; however, if a packet is received complete, it will not delay the process further.
  1. What if there is an Error on Your License? What should I do if I receive the wrong license or if something is wrong with the license?
  1. If I check “yes” to any of the “fitness” legal questions on the applications, what happens?
  • Your application is referred to the Background Bureau for further review, and you must provide all pertinent documentation to move the clearance process along: a signed narrative explaining each arrest and certified court documents for each arrest listed on the FBI Report.
  1. Do I need a Social Security Number to be issued a license?
  • No, if you don’t have a valid SSN, the licensing system will generate a unique ID, and the application will be reviewed in the same order as those with an SSN. Please refer to the sample registration guide we have created to assist.

Licensure-Administrators

  1. How do I become an administrator in New Mexico?
  1. Does NM reciprocate administrative licensure from other states and/or countries?

Licensure - Teachers

  1. What are the different ways to become licensed as a teacher in NM?
  • There are two options: traditional and alternative. Teachers who complete a traditional education program will follow the initial pathway for licensure. Individuals who complete a bachelor’s program, not in an educational program, can follow the alternative pathway. Click the following link to access the different pathways and see what you may qualify under. https://web.ped.nm.gov/bureaus/licensure/licensure-requirements/
  1. I have an Alternative license through OPAL and now want to switch to the Alternative Educator Preparation pathway. Can I do that, and if so, what’s the process?
  • Yes, you must email a signed letter requesting the pathway change, and your employer must provide a signed letter supporting the pathway switch. This will be emailed to LicensureUnit@ped.nm.gov.
  1. I have some questions about how to transition my license from an Alternative license to a Level 1 license? If you completed an Alternative program you will need to provide the following:
  • If you completed the Education Prep Program Pathway:
  • If you completed the OPAL Pathway:
  • If you completed the Post-Secondary Pathway:
    • a. Official Transcripts that confirm the required teaching of reading coursework.
    • c. Completed Superintnednent Recommendation Form for the Post-Secondary pathway. This form is completed by your employer.
  1. How do I get an extension on my alternative license if I did not teach on it for two years?
  • You will apply for an extension in the licensing system and upload a notarized statement stating the years (s) you did not utilize the license. The extension application is open from January through June of the year your license is set to expire.
  1. How do I extend my alternative license?
  • You will apply for an extension in the licensing system. This application requires your employer’s support, as they must enter the superintendent’s narrative within the application. The extension application is open from January through June of the year your license is set to expire.
  1. How many extensions do I get for level 1?
  • You are only allowed three (3) extensions. You will apply for renewal and upload a notarized statement for unused years. **This only applies to those who have completed alternative or approved teaching programs. This does not apply to those who have not. 
  1. Will the Licensure Bureau review my transcripts before applying?
  • We cannot evaluate transcripts to see if you meet the criteria to apply for licenses or endorsements. Your best resource for this type of question is meeting with your local college/ university where you completed the coursework or meeting with your school district. You can always review our website licensure pathway and endorsement pathway for additional information https://web.ped.nm.gov/bureaus/licensure/endorsements-how-to-add-to-a-license/
  1. Does New Mexico have reciprocity with other states and/or countries?
  • Do I have to submit OFFICIAL transcripts if I am reciprocating a license from another state/country?
  • If educators have an official copy, they can scan and email it to us at OfficialTranscripts.LU@ped.nm.gov. If educators do not have a copy, the university(s) can send eScrip to the attention of NMPED at the following email address: OfficialTranscripts.LU@ped.nm.gov.
  • Official Foreign Transcripts Evaluations: Transcripts must be sealed and addressed to 300 Don Gaspar, Santa Fe NM 87501 (we only accept mailed foreign transcripts evaluation). All foreign transcripts need to have a course-by-course evaluation completed. Click Here for a list of evaluators who are members of the Foreign Transcript Evaluation Services (NCAES). The Public Education Department does not require nor recommend using NACES-listed service members. The US has no “official” organization or regulatory body for foreign credential interpretation or evaluation methodology. It is based on commonly developed and agreed standards of good practice.
  1. I am reciprocating a license. What level of teaching license will I receive in New Mexico?
  • 1-3 years of teaching experience, you will receive a level 1 license.
  • 3-5 years of teaching experience with a bachelor’s and master’s degree, you will receive a level 2 license.
  • 6 or more years of experience and a master’s degree, you will receive a level 3A license (base salary $54,000).
  1. I received my degree from another state but did not get licensed there. How do I get an NM license?
  • You will have to meet NM licensure rules for the particular license. You must have completed an approved teacher education program and provide proof of passing the required NM exams. Follow this link for additional information for each specific license: https://web.ped.nm.gov/bureaus/licensure/licensure-requirements/
  1. Is testing required?
  1. I took the New Mexico exams but did not pass. How can I get a license?
  • We will not issue a license until you have passed all required exams.
  1. I already have an NM license. I want a different license, what do I need to do?
  1. What is an endorsement?
  1. Can I add language arts, history, science, or mathematics endorsements to an elementary or special education license?
  • Yes, core subject endorsements can be added to elementary, special education, early childhood, and deaf and hard of hearing licenses. An elementary teacher will continue to be authorized to teach in a self-contained classroom or any of the core subject areas of language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies in a departmental program without a separate endorsement in those areas. If teaching in a departmentalized setting, the individual must be considered Fully State Certified (formally known as HQT”); this means they must have a minimum of 24 semester hours in the core area or pass the middle-level content knowledge assessment (CKA) in the core area.
  1. I’d like to get an endorsement on my license; what do I need to do?
  1. Will your office provide a list of the courses (class number or course code) I need for the endorsement?
  • No. Each college/university has its approved endorsement program of courses. This link will provide you with some guidance on the courses needed, but you should partner with your local college or university to ensure you are taking the correct courses. Click on a specific endorsement to find a general course listing.
  1. Will your office list the courses (class number or course code) I need for a teaching license?
  • No. Each college/university has its approved endorsement program of courses. This link will provide guidance on the courses needed, but you should partner with your local college or university to ensure you are taking the correct classes. Click on a specific licensure to find the licensure requirements or contact an advisor with any of our NM-approved alternative licensure programs.
  1. Why does the word alternative stay on my license after I completed the alternative program?
  • The word “alternative” remains on your license because you have a Level 1 teaching license, which means a provisional license issued for the first five years of teaching that gives a beginning teacher the opportunity, through a formal mentorship program, for additional preparation to be a quality teacher, you gained this license through an alternative program. Once you move to a level 2, we will remove the word “alternative”. The word alternative and the five years on your license indicate that you completed an alternative program.

Licensure-Instructional Support Providers

Is there a three-tiered system for counselors, speech-language pathologists, etc.?

  • Yes, there are 3 levels of license for most Instructional support providers.
  1. I have many years of experience in my field; do I receive a level 3 license?
  • No. All new applicants begin at level 1, regardless of the experience.
  1. If I am nationally board-certified, do I receive a level 3 license?
  • No.
  1. How long do I have to stay at level 1 before I can apply for level 2? How long do I have to stay at level 2 before I can apply for a level 3?

Licensure-Support Providers (coaches, educational assistants, substitutes)

  1. Must I be employed before I am eligible for an educational assistant or substitute teaching license?
  • Not necessarily, but you must complete an Orientation Session with a local school district before a license can be issued, which will need to be verified on the superintendent verification form.
  1. Do you issue 1-year licenses for coaches to allow them time to complete the New Mexico Athletics Association (NMAA) coaches’ training program?
  • Yes. The NFHS First Aid/Sports First Aid/Athletic Training Program must be completed to receive the non-renewable 1-year license. The NFHS -NMAA Fundamentals of coaching training certificate must be completed by the expiration date of the 1-year license. The license is issued for the school year (July 1 to June 30).

Three-Tiered Licensure Systems

  1. What is the three-tiered licensure system and the Professional Development Dossier (PDD)?
  1. When can I do my OPAL?
  1. When does the Dossier open and Close?
  • The dossier is no longer offered. The final expiration date was 3/29/24.
  1. When should I start working on my Dossier?
  • The dossier is no longer offered. The final expiration date was 3/29/24.
  1. What could I do to keep my license after not passing my PDD? Can I get an extension or renew my level 1 license?
  • You will apply for an 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 notarized at the district/charter level.
  • Must a level 1 teacher advance after five years?
    • Yes, but it recommended to advance after teaching 3 years due to the micro-credentials for advancement takes 15 months to complete.

Renewals

  1. How do I renew my licenses?
  • You will complete the following:
    • a. Renewal/Continuing Application (Admin/Teachers/Instructional Support Providers) and Renewal Application (Support Providers) through our eLicensing portal: https://licensureapp.ped.state.nm.us/
    • b. Fees – $130.00 – Administrators
    • c. Fees – $120.00 – Teachers or Instructional Support Providers
    • d. $35.00 – Athletic Coaches and $50.00 – Support Providers
    • e. Superintendent Recommendation Form- if you taught/worked any time during the life of that license OR
    • f. Notarized Statement- if you did not teach for the life of that license.
  1. When can I renew my license?
  • All licenses may be renewed within 6 months of their expiration date (the earliest is January of the year of expiration).
  1. I hold a level 2 or Level 3 license and forgot to renew it. What do I need to do?
  • If lapsed less than a year – you need to provide a renewal application, fee, and superintendent recommendation form and complete a new background check for “Teacher Licensure” if more than two (2) years old.
  • If lapsed for more than one year – you need to submit an initial application & fee; official transcripts if not on file, etc., provide verification of 5 years of experience during the life of the expired license, a new background check for licensure, and a Superintendent’s Recommendation Form from the last employer. Elementary teachers will need to complete the Teaching Reading exam and administrators will need to take the ED Admin exam. **If an educator has current/valid licenses on file, then a new background is not required.
  1. I hold a Level 1 license, which is about to expire. What do I need to do?
  • If you have not taught on the level 1 license for five years, you must submit a renewal application, fee, and a notarized statement indicating the years you have not taught on your NM level license. An extension of the license for the years you did not teach will be issued to allow you time to complete the micro-credentials for advancement.
  • If you taught for 5 years, you must apply for an 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 notarized at the district/charter level.
  1. For my renewal application, do I need to send my transcripts if you already have them on file?
  • No
  1. Can an extension be given to a level 1 teacher who has not taught in NM for 5 years?
  • Yes, but it only applies to those who have completed their alternative or standard teaching program requirements. You must upload a notarized statement during your online application submission stating that you have not taught in NM for 5 years.  For example: If you taught 3 out of the 5 years – you can extend the level 1 license for 2 years. Upon the 5th year of teaching, you will be required to complete the micro-credentials for advancement to advance your license.
  1. If I taught all 5 years on my level 1 license and did not complete my dossier, can I receive an extension if my employing district/charter does not support me?
  1. If I taught all 5 years on my level 1 license and did not complete my dossier, can I receive an extension if my employing district/charter does support me?
  1. I only taught with the school for 1-2 years. Do I still need a superintendent’s recommendation form (level 2-3A)?
  • Yes, the only time you do not need to provide a superintendent recommendation form is if you did not teach or work for the life of that license.

Changes and/or Request for Duplicate License

  1. I need a copy of my license. What is the process?
  1. How do I change the name and address on my license?