New Mexico CNA Certification Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in New Mexico
Official source: licensing in New Mexico is administered by the New Mexico Board of Nursing - CNA Registry. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in New Mexico.
Apply on Official SiteHow do you renew a CNA certification in New Mexico?
New Mexico CNA certification renews every 2 years, and the renewal fee is $25. You must show at least 8 paid hours of CNA work in the past 24 months, verified by your employer. The HCA page also says you must complete 12 hours of in-service or continuing education each year (24 hours per renewal cycle).
Source: New Mexico Health Care Authority: Certified Nurse Aide Registry, checked 2026-11-06.
1 Training Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program
Additional Requirements
- New Mexico requires 75 hours of training (federal minimum)
- Must include classroom and clinical training components
- Training must be completed at a state-approved program
2 Competency Examination
Exam Name
Nurse Aide Competency Exam
Test Provider
D&S Diversified Technologies
Exam Components
Written/Oral Test
Multiple choice questions on nursing assistant knowledge and skills
Skills Demonstration
Perform 3-5 randomly selected nursing skills in front of an evaluator
Exam Fee
$100
Tip: You must pass both the written (or oral) and skills portions of the exam to be certified. Most states allow multiple retake attempts if needed.
3 Background Check
CNAs work with vulnerable populations, so background checks are required in all states. Cost is typically $44.
4 Fees
Initial Certification
| Training Program | $500-$2,000* |
| Competency Exam | $100 |
| Background Check | $44 |
| Application/Registry Fee | $25 |
*Many employers offer free CNA training programs with work commitment
Renewal
| Renewal Fee (every 2 years) | $25 |
| Work Requirement | 8 hours in 24 months |
Certification Renewal
You must show at least 8 paid hours of CNA work in the past 24 months, verified by your employer. The HCA page also says you must complete 12 hours of in-service or continuing education each year (24 hours per renewal cycle).
Career Advancement
CNAs can advance to LPN or RN with additional education and training
New Mexico CNA Certification FAQs
How much does CNA certification cost in New Mexico?
Expect about $169 in total initial CNA certification costs in New Mexico, including a $25 application fee and a $100 examination fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the New Mexico Board of Nursing - CNA Registry.
How do you renew a CNA certification in New Mexico?
New Mexico CNA certification renews every 2 years, and the renewal fee is $25. You must show at least 8 paid hours of CNA work in the past 24 months, verified by your employer. The HCA page also says you must complete 12 hours of in-service or continuing education each year (24 hours per renewal cycle).
How long does it take to get CNA certification in New Mexico?
Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 10 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.
Who issues CNA certifications in New Mexico?
The New Mexico Board of Nursing - CNA Registry handles CNA certification applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at (505) 841-8340.
Nurse Aide Registry
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Other License Types in New Mexico
Clinically reviewed by Clinical Review Team
Based on 2 official sources • Last verified: June 2026