Skip to main content
USLG
HomeStatesProfessionsAbout

Animal Control Officer License in New Mexico

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Animal Control Officer license in NM. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

3-5 Weeks

Exam Required

NACA Certification Exam

Difficulty Level

Low

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Animal Control Officer license in New Mexico.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Animal Control Officer training program in New Mexico.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your NM application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NACA Certification Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the New Mexico licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 3-5 weeks in NM. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

To obtain your Animal Control Officer license in New Mexico, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. New Mexico requires all applicants to pass the NACA Certification Exam before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in NM is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

The New Mexico licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring Animal Control Officer professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the NACA Certification Exam. NM also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

New Mexico sets the Animal Control Officer license application fee at $150. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in NM. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in New Mexico typically ranges from $150 to $350.

License Fee Calculator — Animal Control Officer in New Mexico

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Your Animal Control Officer license in New Mexico must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal fee in NM is $75. New Mexico requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in NM can result in fines and disciplinary action.

License Expiry Calculator — Animal Control Officer in NM

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. New Mexico requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Animal Control Officer in New Mexico offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. NM has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. New Mexico also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Animal Control Officer professionals.

Document Checklist — Animal Control Officer

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My New Mexico Animal Control Officer License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for NM license holders.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts NM Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize NM Animal Control Officer license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts NM Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize NM Animal Control Officer license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts NM Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) FullCA accepts NM Animal Control Officer license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for NM license holders.

Where to File Locally in New Mexico

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Santa Fe

2550 Cerrillos Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87505

(505) 476-4500

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Albuquerque

400 Marquette Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

(505) 924-3600

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Las Cruces

700 N Main St, Las Cruces, NM 88001

(575) 541-2000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Rio Rancho

3200 Civic Center Cir NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144

(505) 891-5000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Roswell

425 N Richardson Ave, Roswell, NM 88201

(575) 624-6700

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official New Mexico Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the New Mexico state board. Regulations may change.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Our research team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get you the licensing information you need.

Contact Our Team

Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.