Respiratory Therapy
License Requirements

New Mexico Respiratory Therapy CE Requirements

20 Hours every 2 years - Total CE requirement for license renewal

• Total Requirement: 20 contact hours of continuing education are required every renewal period (biennium).
• Online/Distance Education: New Mexico allows for 100% of the required hours to be completed via 'distance education' (online), provided the courses are consistent with AMA Category I or approved by the AARC.
• Category I Requirement: At least 12 hours must be consistent with American Medical Association (AMA) Category I standards. (Note: AARC-approved online courses generally meet this standard).
• Mandatory Topics: - Ethics: You must complete at least 1 hour in Ethics. - Human Trafficking: *New Rule:* Effective October 25, 2025, you must complete at least 1 hour in Human Trafficking awareness.
• Approved Sponsors: Courses approved by the AARC or the New Mexico Society for Respiratory Care (NMSRC) are accepted.
• First Renewal Exception: - If your initial license was issued between June 1 and July 31 of the odd-numbered renewal year, your CE requirement is waived. - If issued between October 1 (even year) and May 31 (odd year), you only need 10 hours. - If issued before October 1 of the even year, you need the full 20 hours.

New Mexico License Renewal Process

1. Expiration Date: Licenses expire on September 30th of every odd-numbered year (e.g., 2025, 2027).
2. Renewal Window: The renewal portal (NM-PLUS) typically opens 45 days prior to the expiration date (around August 15th).
3. Online Portal: Renewal is completed through the NM-PLUS online licensing system.
4. Fees: The standard renewal fee is $150.00.
5. Late Renewal/Reactivation: If you fail to renew by September 30th, your license becomes 'Expired.' You must apply for Reactivation, which costs $250.00 (includes late penalty) and requires proof of your 20 CEUs.
6. Audit: The Board conducts random audits (approx. 10% of licensees). If selected, you must upload your certificates to the portal. You should retain your records for at least 2-4 years (until the *next* renewal cycle is complete) to be safe.