New Mexico Social Worker License Guide - 2024

Social Worker License

by Social Worker License Staff

Updated: February 16th, 2024

Social Worker Licensing Guide for the state of New Mexico

Does it seem like you were born to help others and make a difference in the world? You can accomplish both with a career in social work. Social workers are on the front lines, advocating for clients, assisting with mental health needs, working on policy, etc. With so many duties, few professionals can make the impact that a social worker can.

New Mexico Social Work License Options



First, you must obtain a license to work as a social worker in New Mexico. The state has four licensing options, two for generalists and two for clinical social workers.

If you decide to work as a generalist, you’ll take a more behind-the-scenes approach when tackling tasks like policy analysis and case management. As a clinical social worker, you’ll work directly with clients in a clinical setting. This license will allow you to conduct therapy sessions with individuals and groups, diagnose and treat patients, etc. You can also take on generalist social work roles as a clinical social worker if you want to do it all.

The Board of Social Work Examiners issues and oversees licenses for social workers in New Mexico. If you run into a roadblock while working toward your license, call the board at 505-476-4622. You can also send the board an email at SocialWorkBoard@state.nm.us if you prefer digital communication.

You can also use this guide to navigate the process. You’ll discover that while it does take some hard work, the steps aren’t overly complicated. Thus, you’ll be ready to embark on your career path after reading the requirements. Let’s begin so you’ll know what it takes to become a social worker in New Mexico.