New Mexico Architect FAQs

Answers to frequently asked questions about New Mexico architect licensing and continuing education.

New Mexico Architect Renewal

Continuing Education Deadline: December 31st, annually

State Required Continuing Education: 12 hrs in HSW subjects (24 hrs per renewal cycle)

License Renewal Deadline: December 31st of odd-numbered years

AIA Membership Continuing Education: 18 hrs annually, including 12 HSW

See New Mexico AIA Courses

Renewing Your License:

How do I renew my New Mexico architect license?

  1. Complete 24-hours of continuing education (12-hours per year)
  2. The state will mail you a renewal form.
  3. Complete your renewal form and pay the appropriate fee before December 31st of each renewal deadline year.

What are the New Mexico continuing education requirements for architects?

New Mexico architects must complete a minimum of 24 HSW continuing education hours (12-hours per calendar year) by December 31st of odd-numbered years.

What are the renewal fees for New Mexico architects?

  • $225 for in-state registrants
  • $325 for out-of-state registrants

I have extra New Mexico architect continuing education hours, can I apply them to the next renewal cycle?

No, learning units must be completed in their respective cycle.

Who notifies New Mexico of my completed architect continuing education?

Continuing education records are not submitted to the state unless there is an audit. In the case of an audit, you are responsible for submitting two years of continuing education records. Architects Training Institute will store your continuing education records for 6-years at no additional cost.

Do I need to complete continuing education requirements for my AIA membership?

Yes, as an Architect member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), 18 learning unit hours are required per calendar-year for membership renewal. Of these 18 hours, at least 12 hours must be in subjects designated as Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW).

Are AIA approved classes accepted to renew my New Mexico architect license?

Yes.

My New Mexico architect registration has lapsed, how do I reinstate it?

Please email the board at nmbea@state.nm.us with your request to reinstate your license. Make sure to include your current address and other contact information. You will be contacted with instructions on what you will need to submit to reinstate. Requirements and fees vary depending on the length of time your license has been expired.

Getting a License:

How do I obtain an New Mexico architect license?

You may become licensed through BEA Pathway, examination, or reciprocity. Click here for details: https://www.bea.state.nm.us/s/licensing

Does New Mexico offer architect reciprocity?

Yes, architects registered in other United States jurisdictions and Canada may obtain a New Mexico registration to practice architecture by applying through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). NCARB certificate holders have met the basic requirements for registration throughout the US. Click here to learn more: https://www.bea.state.nm.us/s/reciprocity

State Contact Info:

New Mexico Board of Examiners for Architects

Mailing Address:
PO Box 509
Santa Fe, NM 87504

Physical Address:
Toney Anaya Building
2550 Cerrillos Road –3rd Floor
Santa Fe, NM 87505

Phone: (505) 476-4830
Fax: (505) 476-4829
nmbea@state.nm.us
http://www.bea.state.nm.us/

Once I order the course, how long before I can start?

You may begin immediately! Simply click the Login button in the upper right-hand corner on your desktop or in the upper-right menu on mobile. Once you’ve entered your login and password, you will be taken to your courses. Follow the instructions and enjoy!

Once I start an online course, will I be able to start and stop at anytime?

Our courses are available online 24/7 and you are able to log in and log out at any time during the course. If you are going to be away from your computer for more than 10-15 minutes, simply log out. When you log back in, you will be able to re-enter the lesson you were last in.

How long do your continuing education courses take to complete?

Continuing education requirements vary by state. Each course lists a minimum number of credit hours required to complete the course.

How long do I have access to the courses?

We allow up to 6 months for you to complete the courses. During the six months you have unlimited, 24/7 access. If you need additional time, please contact our offices to arrange an extension (please note: a fee may apply).

Are there tests or quizzes in the courses?

Some states do require quizzes, these will be found at the end of lessons. You cannot fail a quiz, though, as you may take it as many times as required to pass!

Once I complete a course, can I still go back and review the lessons?

You are able to review the lessons at any time during the six months you’ll have access to the courses.