First Time CNA Certification in New Mexico
Initial certification requirements in the state of New Mexico for CNA applicants are as follows:
- Completion of a state-approved CNA course in New Mexico.
- Completion of an application to test (see below).
- Has partaken and acquired a passing score in the two-part competency examination at designated testing facilities.
If an applicant is able to comply with the said requirements, he/she will receive a certificate along with having his/her name enlisted in the CNA Registry.
Useful Links:
CNA Certificate Verification in New Mexico
You may click on the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) or go directly to Prometric’s website to have you certification status verified.
LNA Certificate Renewal in New Mexico
CNAs in New Mexico are required to have their certificates renewed every 2 years to be able to continue working. Eligibility for the renewal of certification can be summarized as:
- Has performed at least 8 hours worth of compensated nurse-related work during the last 2 year certification period.
- Must be free from any work related issue such as fraud, misappropriation of resident property, or resident abuse or neglect.
Aside from the aforementioned requirements above, applicant will need to provide supporting documents. Once all of the said requirements been accomplished, the CNA registry will now award the certificate that will last for 2 years provided that applicant in question does not incur any of the work related issues mentioned above.
Reinstatement of a Lapsed LNA Certificate in NM
If an applicant has not performed at least 8 hours of nurse-related work during the last 2 year period of their last certification period, he/she will be required to reinstate his/her certificate before being allowed to continue working as a CNA.
In cases where the expiration period is less than 2 years, retaking a competency exam will suffice.
However, if the expiration period is greater than 2 years, retraining along with retaking of the competency exam mentioned above will be required.
Out-of-State Certification via Reciprocity
Certifications that have been acquired from another state can be transferred to the New Mexico CNA Registry without further requirements via reciprocity. The application can be requested from the HFLC (Health Facility Licensing and Certification Bureau) in the Division of Health Improvement at the New Mexico Department of Health.
Certification by reciprocity (PDF download)
If you have additional questions, you may contact the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry at:
New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry
New Mexico CNA Training & Registry Unit
5301 Central Avenue NE, Suite 1510 Room 11
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87108
Telephone: 505-861-9680
Fax: 505-841-6551
Email: [email protected]