New Mexico Landscaping License and Contractor Requirements

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Last updated: October 1, 2026

Quick Answer: New Mexico does not have a single statewide "landscaping license." Instead, the state's Construction Industries Division (CID) regulates contractors who perform structural or specialty work, including hardscaping, irrigation, and certain landscape construction, under specific license classifications. Routine lawn care often only requires a local business permit, but any work that meets the legal definition of "contractor" under New Mexico law requires a CID-issued license. [2][7]

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Key Takeaways

• New Mexico has no standalone "landscaping contractor" license, the CID regulates landscaping work that qualifies as construction under NMSA §60-13-3 [2]
• The MS-6 specialty classification covers landscape construction work such as grading, planting, and site improvements under CID oversight [6]
• Structural hardscape work (retaining walls, patios) and irrigation installation trigger CID licensing requirements [7]
• The license application requires a $36 fee plus a license fee, a bond, a tax registration certificate, and passing scores on trade and Business & Law exams [9]
• Pesticide application requires a separate license from the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, not the CID [6]
• Homeowners should always verify a contractor's CID license status before signing any contract [7]
• License renewal is required every two years through the CID [6]
• Reciprocity from other states is not automatic, out-of-state contractors must apply through standard CID channels [6]

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Table of Contents

1. Do You Need a New Mexico Landscaping License?
2. The MS-6 Specialty License for New Mexico Landscaping
3. What Do You Need to Get a Landscaping License in New Mexico?
4. How Much Does a New Mexico Landscaping License Cost?
5. How Long Does It Take to Get a Landscaping License in NM?
6. New Mexico Landscaping License Exam Requirements
7. Checking CID License Status for NM Contractors
8. Permit Requirements for NM Hardscaping Projects
9. New Mexico Landscaping License Renewal and Reciprocity
10. Hiring and Vetting Landscapers in New Mexico
11. Common Mistakes When Applying for a Landscaping License in NM
12. FAQ

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Do You Need a New Mexico Landscaping License?

It depends on what work you're doing. Mowing lawns, trimming shrubs, and basic garden maintenance usually only require a local business license from your city or county. But once work involves construction, building walls, installing irrigation systems, grading land, or laying hardscape, state licensing through the CID kicks in. [2][6]

Under NMSA §60-13-3, anyone acting as a "contractor" in New Mexico must hold the appropriate CID license. The law defines contractor broadly enough to include many landscape construction activities. [2]

A simple way to think about it:

• Maintenance work (mowing, pruning, fertilizing): local business permit only
• Landscape construction (walls, patios, grading, irrigation): CID license required
• Pesticide application: separate NMDA license required
• Landscape architecture (design and planning): separate professional license required

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The MS-6 Specialty License for New Mexico Landscaping

The MS-6 classification is the primary CID specialty license that covers landscape contracting work in New Mexico. It applies to contractors who perform site preparation, planting, grading, and general landscape construction. [6]

MS-6 sits under the CID's specialty contractor category. It is distinct from a general contractor license, which covers broader construction projects. If your work is limited to landscape-specific activities, and does not include structural building work, MS-6 is the classification to pursue. [6][7]

There is also the GS-29 "miscellaneous specialties" classification, which the CID uses for niche or uncommon scopes of work on a case-by-case basis. Some advanced or unusual landscaping specialties may fall under GS-29. As of a 2026 NMAC update, GS-29 now requires up to four years of experience, increased from the previous two-year standard. [1][5]

Choose MS-6 if: your work involves standard landscape construction, grading, planting, irrigation, site improvements.

Choose GS-29 if: your specialty does not fit an existing classification and the CID determines it on a case-by-case basis. [1]

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What Do You Need to Get a Landscaping License in New Mexico?

To obtain a CID license under the MS-6 classification, applicants must submit a complete package to PSI (the CID's testing and licensing administrator). [9]

Required items:

• Completed license application form (CID-issued)
• $36 application fee plus the applicable license fee
• License bond (amount set by CID based on classification)
• New Mexico tax registration certificate (from the Taxation and Revenue Department)
• Corporate or LLP documentation, if applicable
• Qualifying party exam results, including Business & Law and the relevant trade exam [9]

The "qualifying party" is the individual who passes the required exams on behalf of the business. That person must have documented experience in the trade. [9]

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How Much Does a New Mexico Landscaping License Cost?

The base application fee is $36, paid to PSI at the time of submission. The total cost is higher once you add the license fee, bond cost, and exam fees. [9]

Estimated cost breakdown (approximate, not guaranteed):

Item	Estimated Cost
Application fee	$36
License fee (varies by classification)	$100,$300+
Bond (varies by license type)	$10,000,$25,000 bond value
Exam fees (per test)	$55,$100 per exam
Tax registration certificate	Minimal or free

Bond costs depend on the bonding company and the applicant's credit history. The CID sets the bond amount; the premium you pay is a percentage of that amount. For exact current fees, check directly with the CID or PSI. [9][7]

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How Long Does It Take to Get a Landscaping License in NM?

Processing time varies. Once you submit a complete application package and pass your exams, CID review typically takes several weeks. Delays happen most often when applications are incomplete or when exam scheduling takes time. [9]

Realistic timeline:

1. Prepare documents and register with PSI: 1-2 weeks
2. Schedule and pass exams: 2-6 weeks depending on availability
3. Submit full application package: same day
4. CID review and approval: 2-6 weeks

Plan for 6-12 weeks total from start to license in hand, assuming no issues with your application.

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New Mexico Landscaping License Exam Requirements

Every applicant must pass at least two exams: the Business & Law exam and the trade-specific exam for their classification. [9]

The Business & Law exam covers New Mexico contractor law, lien law, business practices, and safety regulations. It applies to all CID license classifications.

The trade exam for MS-6 covers landscape construction practices, plant knowledge, grading, irrigation principles, and site work standards.

Both exams are administered by PSI. Study materials are available through PSI's candidate handbook. There is no shortcut here, the exams are required, and passing scores must accompany the application. [9]

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Checking CID License Status for NM Contractors

The New Mexico RLD maintains a public license lookup tool at rld.nm.gov. Any homeowner can search a contractor's name or license number to verify their status. [7]

What to check:

• License classification (confirm it matches the work being done)
• License status (active, expired, or suspended)
• Qualifying party name
• Any disciplinary actions or complaints on file

This takes about two minutes and can save a lot of trouble. Your yard deserves someone who knows what they're doing, and a valid license is the first proof of that.

If a contractor cannot provide a license number, that is a red flag. Ask for it before any work begins. [7]

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Permit Requirements for NM Hardscaping Projects

Many hardscape and irrigation projects in New Mexico require a permit from the local building authority, in addition to the contractor holding a CID license. [7]

Work that typically requires a permit:

• Retaining walls over a certain height (usually 4 feet, but check locally)
• New irrigation system installation
• Grading that changes drainage patterns
• Outdoor structures attached to the home (pergolas, covered patios)

Permit requirements vary by city and county. Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, and Rio Rancho each have their own building departments with specific thresholds. Always confirm with the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) before work starts.

A contractor who skips permits is putting you at risk. Unpermitted work can complicate home sales and insurance claims.

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New Mexico Landscaping License Renewal and Reciprocity

CID licenses must be renewed every two years. Renewal requires a completed renewal application, the applicable renewal fee, and proof that the qualifying party has met continuing education requirements if applicable. [6][2]

On reciprocity: New Mexico does not have automatic reciprocity agreements for landscaping or specialty contractor licenses. An out-of-state contractor licensed in Arizona, California, Nevada, or Utah must go through the standard CID application process, including passing the required exams. [6]

Some contractors may qualify for exam waivers in specific circumstances, but this is determined case-by-case by the CID. Do not assume your out-of-state license transfers.

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Hiring and Vetting Landscapers in New Mexico

Know who you're letting into your yard. Whether you're in Albuquerque's South Valley, a Santa Fe hillside property, or a newer subdivision in Rio Rancho, the vetting process is the same.

Before you hire, ask:

1. What is your CID license number and classification?
2. Are you bonded and insured? Can you show proof?
3. Will you pull permits for this project?
4. Who is the qualifying party on your license?
5. Do you carry workers' compensation insurance?

Licensed, insured, and reviewed, that's the standard. A contractor who hesitates on any of these questions deserves a second look.

On insurance: New Mexico does not require landscaping contractors to carry general liability insurance as a condition of CID licensure, but a bond is required. Homeowners should independently verify that any contractor carries liability insurance and workers' comp before work begins. [9][6]

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Common Mistakes When Applying for a Landscaping License in NM

These are the errors that slow down or derail CID applications most often.

• Incomplete application package. Missing the tax registration certificate or bond documentation is the most common delay. Assemble everything before submitting.
• Wrong classification. Applying for GS-29 when MS-6 applies (or vice versa) wastes time. Confirm your scope of work with the CID before applying.
• Failing the Business & Law exam. Many trade professionals underestimate this exam. Study the candidate handbook seriously.
• Assuming out-of-state licenses transfer. They do not. Out-of-state contractors must complete the full NM process. [6]
• Not updating the qualifying party. If the person who passed the exams leaves the company, the license may be at risk. The CID must be notified of qualifying party changes. [2]

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FAQ

Do I need a license to do landscaping in New Mexico if I only mow lawns?
No. Routine lawn maintenance, mowing, edging, leaf removal, typically only requires a local business license. State CID licensing is triggered when work crosses into construction, such as building walls, installing irrigation, or grading land. [2][6]

Can I start a landscaping business without a license in New Mexico?
You can operate a maintenance-only landscaping business with just a local business license. But if you plan to offer any construction-related services, you must hold the appropriate CID license before doing that work. Operating as an unlicensed contractor carries fines and legal risk. [2]

Is a landscaping license the same as a general contractor license in New Mexico?
No. A general contractor license covers broad construction work. The MS-6 specialty classification is specific to landscape construction. The scope of work determines which license applies. [6][7]

How do I renew my New Mexico landscaping license?
Submit a renewal application to the CID with the required fee before your license expiration date. Licenses are renewed on a two-year cycle. Check rld.nm.gov for current renewal forms and fees. [7][2]

Does New Mexico require insurance for a landscaping license?
A bond is required as part of the CID application. General liability insurance is not a state licensing requirement, but homeowners should require proof of it from any contractor they hire. [9]

What counts as landscaping work that requires a CID license in NM?
Any work that meets the definition of "contractor" under NMSA §60-13-3 requires a CID license. This includes grading, irrigation installation, retaining wall construction, hardscape installation, and similar site construction activities. [2]

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Conclusion

New Mexico's landscaping licensing rules are more layered than most people expect. There is no single "landscaping license", the CID regulates construction-related landscape work through specialty classifications like MS-6, and separate agencies handle pesticide applicators and landscape architects.

For homeowners, the action steps are simple: verify any contractor's CID license at rld.nm.gov before signing a contract, ask for proof of insurance and bonding, and confirm that permits will be pulled for structural or irrigation work.

For contractors, the path is clear: identify whether your work scope requires MS-6 or another CID classification, gather your full application package, pass your exams, and renew every two years.

Find the right landscaper for your yard, one who is licensed, insured, and reviewed. Local pros with local knowledge make the difference, whether you're building a xeriscape in Albuquerque or a full backyard transformation in Santa Fe. No fluff, just useful advice: verify first, hire second.

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References

[1] 14.006.0006 - https://www.srca.nm.gov/parts/title14/14.006.0006.html

[2] 14.006.0003 - https://www.srca.nm.gov/parts/title14/14.006.0003.html

[3] kaamcam - https://kaamcam.com/license/landscaping/NM

[4] New Mexico - https://startbusinessbystate.com/new-mexico/

[5] 14.006.0006 - https://www.srca.nm.gov/wp-content/uploads/attachments/14.006.0006.pdf

[6] Newmexico Landscaping Licensing - https://newmexicocontractorauthority.com/newmexico-landscaping-licensing/

[7] Construction Industries - https://www.rld.nm.gov/construction-industries/

[8] Landscaping - https://startbusinessbystate.com/new-mexico/landscaping/

[9] Apply For A Construction Industries License - https://www.rld.nm.gov/construction-industries/apply-for-a-construction-industries-license/

[10] Landscaping - https://theboard.theforges.app/find/contractors/nm/santa-fe/landscaping

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