Updated August 13, 2025
If you want to become an electrician in New Mexico, the first step is finding the right training program. You need solid hands-on skills, classroom knowledge, and guidance on state licensing rules. Choosing the right school can set you up for success from day one.
This guide walks you through the best electrician schools in New Mexico, what to look for in a program, and the steps you must take to become licensed.
In New Mexico, electricians are licensed by the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department - Construction Industries Division (CID). You cannot legally work as a journeyman electrician without a license.
State rule: To qualify for the journeyman exam in New Mexico, you must complete 8,000 hours of documented work experience and at least 576 hours of classroom instruction in electrical code, theory, and safety. 1
The 8,000 hours are typically earned through an apprenticeship or through on-the-job training combined with trade school coursework.
When comparing electrician schools in New Mexico, consider:
Here are some top options for electrical training in the state. Always confirm current program details directly with the school.
| School Name | Location | Program Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) | Albuquerque | 2 years (AAS Electrical Trades) | Strong hands-on labs, NEC prep, pathway to apprenticeships |
| New Mexico State University - Dona Ana (NMSU-Dona Ana) | Las Cruces | 2 years (AAS or Certificate) | Covers residential, commercial, industrial wiring |
| San Juan College | Farmington | 1-2 years | Electrical Trades certificate, job placement services |
| Eastern New Mexico University - Roswell | Roswell | 2 years (AAS) | Combines electrical theory with practical shop work |
| Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) - New Mexico Chapter | Albuquerque | 4-year apprenticeship | Earn while you learn, CID-approved |
Some electricians choose to start directly with an apprenticeship instead of a college program.
Common apprenticeship providers:
Apprenticeships often offer no-cost tuition in exchange for a multi-year work commitment. You'll still meet the CID's classroom and on-the-job hour requirements.
Here's a simple breakdown:
| Pathway | Classroom Hours | Jobsite Hours | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trade school + apprenticeship | 576+ | 8,000 | 4-5 years |
| Direct apprenticeship | 576+ | 8,000 | 4-5 years |
Whether you start with school or an apprenticeship, the total requirement is about the same. The main difference is whether you pay tuition or learn while earning.
Electricians work with live electrical systems, so safety is critical. All training programs in New Mexico should cover:
Safety reminder: CID and OSHA can fine or suspend electricians who work without proper licensing or violate safety standards.
After getting your journeyman license, New Mexico requires you to complete continuing education courses to renew. These updates often cover new NEC editions and major safety or code changes.
Schools like CNM and IEC offer recurring CEU (continuing education unit) classes for licensed electricians.
If you're serious about becoming a licensed electrician in New Mexico:
The sooner you start your training, the sooner you can be earning and building a stable career in the electrical trade.
Next step: Contact two or three schools from the list above. Ask about start dates, tuition costs, and apprenticeship support. Then, choose the program that fits your schedule and career plan.
New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department - Construction Industries Division. "Electrical Bureau Licensing Requirements." https://www.rld.nm.gov/construction-industries/ ↩
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