New Mexico Tile Contractor License Requirements (2026 Guide)

Last updated April 2026. Verified against New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) rule 14.6.6 NMAC.

If you're a tile installer planning to work in New Mexico, here's what makes this state different: New Mexico licenses tile contractors at the state level, but it doesn't have a tile-specific classification. Instead, tile work falls under the GS-29 Miscellaneous Specialty classification — the catch-all CID uses for trades that aren't explicitly named in their rules. Alternatively, tile contractors can hold a GB-2 (Residential Building) or GB-98 (General Building) license, both of which include all GS specialty work as part of their scope.

The Construction Industries Division (CID) of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department handles all contractor licensing statewide. New Mexico is a true licensing state — you'll need a qualifying party with documented experience, two passing exam scores (trade and business/law), a $10,000 Consumer Protection Code Bond, workers' compensation insurance, and registration with the Secretary of State before you can legally work on jobs over $7,200 per year.

The good news for solo tile contractors: New Mexico's bonding and insurance requirements are lower than California, Arizona, or Nevada. There's no state-mandated general liability insurance minimum. The $10,000 bond is among the smallest in the licensed-state group. And the three-year license cycle (versus annual or biennial in many states) reduces ongoing administrative burden.

This guide covers what New Mexico tile contractors actually need to know — the GS-29 classification framework, costs, exam structure, the unique $7,200 revenue exemption, and how the CID system actually works in practice. Information was verified against state rules and CID sources as of April 2026, but always confirm current requirements directly with CID before applying.

The Quick Answer

Does New Mexico require a tile contractor license? Yes, if your annual contracting revenue exceeds $7,200. Tile work falls under classification GS-29 Miscellaneous Specialty Contractor through the New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID).

The $7,200 exemption: Contracting businesses with less than $7,200 in annual revenue don't require a license. This is unique among Western states and provides a meaningful entry point for very small operations.

Cost to get started: Approximately $1,300–2,000 first year, including qualifying party application fee ($30), exam fees ($130 for trade and business/law), license fee ($300 for 3-year cycle), Consumer Protection Code Bond ($150–300/year for $10,000 bond), workers' compensation registration, and general liability insurance.

Time to get licensed: 6–10 weeks total — including qualifying party certification, exam scheduling, application processing, and final licensing steps.

Required exam: Yes. Two exams: New Mexico Business and Law exam (or 20-hour approved business and law course substitute) and the GS-29 trade exam. Both administered by PSI.

Experience required: 2 years (4,000 hours) of practical or related trade experience in tile work within the past 10 years, verified through notarized work experience affidavits.

Renewal: Every 3 years (longer than most states).

Reciprocity: Limited. New Mexico has reciprocity with Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming for journeyman electrical and HVAC certifications only — NOT for general contractor or specialty contractor licenses.

This puts New Mexico in the moderate regulatory tier — more rigorous than Idaho or Montana but less rigorous than California, Arizona, or Nevada.

Understanding New Mexico's CID Classification System

To navigate New Mexico licensing, you need to understand how CID structures its classifications.

The classification framework

CID uses a letter-and-number system:

Field designators (first letter):

• G = General Construction
• E = Electrical
• M = Mechanical/Plumbing

Type designators (second letter):

• A = Asphalt
• B = Building
• F = Fixed works
• S = Specialties

Specific trade (number): Identifies the exact specialty.

So GS-29 breaks down as:

• G = General Construction field
• S = Specialties type
• 29 = Miscellaneous specialty

Why tile falls under GS-29

CID's rule 14.6.6.9(D) lists the specific GS specialty classifications (GS-1 through GS-34), but tile work is NOT explicitly named. The rule states: "Any classification not listed below and regulated by CID shall be issued a GS-29."

The named GS classifications include:

• GS-1: Acoustical insulation and insulation
• GS-2: Awnings and canopies
• GS-4: Concrete, cement, walkways and driveways
• GS-5: Demolition
• GS-7: Drywall installation and texture
• GS-13: Framing
• GS-14: Windows, doors and skylights
• GS-16: Masonry (brick, stone, structural masonry — NOT tile)
• GS-21: Roofing
• GS-25: Swimming pools
• GS-30: Plastering, stucco and lathing
• GS-31: Siding
• GS-32: Miscellaneous sheet metal
• GS-34: Concrete coring, drilling and slab sawing

Tile installation isn't in this list. So tile contractors get classified as GS-29 Miscellaneous Specialty, which CID issues on a case-by-case basis with up to four years of experience required (typically 2 years for tile work specifically).

Alternative: GB-2 or GB-98

You can also operate as a tile contractor under broader general building classifications:

GB-2 Residential Building Contractor:

• Erect, alter, repair or demolish residences and apartment houses (4 family units or less)
• "Includes all work described by the GS specialty classifications, provided the work is limited to residential construction"
• Requires 2 years of foreman-level experience
• Most appropriate for tile contractors who do whole bathroom remodels or work alongside other trades

GB-98 General Building:

• Full scope including residential and commercial buildings
• "Includes all work authorized by the GB-2, GF-5, GF-7 and GS classifications"
• Requires 4 years of experience (at least 2 years commercial)
• Most appropriate for tile contractors who run multi-trade projects

For most solo tile contractors focused purely on tile work, GS-29 is the appropriate classification. It's specific to your scope, has lower experience requirements, and lower fees than GB-98.

What GS-29 doesn't cover

Like most specialty classifications, GS-29 stays within the tile installation scope:

• No plumbing work (drain modifications, shower valves) — requires MM-1 plumbing license
• No electrical work (heated floor cables) — requires EE-98 or ER-1 electrical license (See: How to price tile over radiant heat)
• No structural work — requires GB-2 or GB-98
• No roofing — requires GS-21

Subcontract these scopes to appropriately licensed New Mexico contractors.

The $7,200 Annual Revenue Exemption

New Mexico is unique among licensed states in providing a clear small-business exemption.

How the exemption works

NMSA 1978, Section 60-13-3 establishes that contracting businesses with less than $7,200 in annual revenue from contracting work don't require a CID license.

This means:

• A solo tile contractor doing occasional repair work under $7,200 total annual revenue can operate without a license
• Most full-time tile contractors will exceed this threshold
• The exemption is based on annual revenue, not per-project value
• The threshold has remained at $7,200 for decades (not adjusted for inflation)

Practical reality

Almost any working tile contractor will exceed $7,200 in annual revenue. A single bathroom retile typically generates more than this in a single project. The exemption is genuinely useful only for:

• Hobbyist contractors doing minor work
• Retired tradespeople doing occasional repairs
• Side-business contractors with very limited revenue

For most working tile contractors planning to make a living in New Mexico, plan to be licensed.

What if you're under $7,200?

You still need:

• Business registration with Secretary of State
• General liability insurance (practical reality, not legal requirement)
• Workers' compensation if you have employees
• Sales tax registration (Gross Receipts Tax)
• Good reviews and portfolio building

Without a license, you cannot:

• Pull permits
• File mechanic's liens
• Bid on commercial work
• Work for most general contractors as a sub

What It Costs in New Mexico

New Mexico's licensing costs are moderate — lower than California or Nevada, higher than Idaho or Montana.

Application costs

• Qualifying Party application fee: $30 (paid to PSI)
• Trade exam (GS-29): $65 (administered by PSI)
• Business and Law exam: $65 (or $0 if you complete an approved 20-hour business and law course)
• Approved business and law course (alternative to exam): $200–400 typical cost
• Certificate of qualification fee: $6

License costs

• Application fee: $30 (paid to CID)
• Classification fee: $300 for 3-year cycle = $100/year average
• License renewal: Same fees every 3 years

Bond cost

• Consumer Protection Code Bond: $10,000 bond amount required for ALL CID licensees
• Annual cost to you: $150–300 for first-year coverage
• Cost varies based on credit
• This is significantly lower than California ($25K) or Oregon ($20K) bonds
• Can be obtained through any CID-authorized surety company

Insurance costs

• Workers' Compensation Insurance: Required for all CID licensees
• For solo contractors: file exemption affidavit (~$50)
• For employers: through New Mexico Workers' Compensation Administration

• General liability insurance: Not specifically required by CID
• BUT virtually all GCs and homeowners require it
• Practical reality: $700–1,200/year for solo tile contractor
• Standard coverage: $1,000,000 per occurrence

Realistic first-year cost breakdown

For a solo tile contractor getting their GS-29 license in New Mexico:

• Qualifying Party application: $30
• Trade exam fee: $65
• Business and Law exam fee: $65
• Certificate of qualification: $6
• License application fee: $30
• Classification fee (3-year): $300
• Consumer Protection Code Bond first-year premium: $200
• General liability insurance: $850
• Business entity formation (LLC): $50
• Workers' compensation exemption (if solo): $50
• Notarization fees: $20

Total first-year cost: approximately $1,666

This is between Utah ($1,500) and Nevada ($2,500–4,500) in cost.

How to Get Your GS-29 License: Step-by-Step

Here's the actual process to become a licensed New Mexico tile contractor.

Step 1: Form Your Business Entity

Register your business with the New Mexico Secretary of State.

Options:

• Sole proprietorship: Simplest, no Secretary of State filing needed for legal name
• LLC: $50 filing fee, recommended for liability protection
• Corporation: $100 filing fee, more complex

File at: sos.state.nm.us

Practical recommendation: Form an LLC. The $50 filing fee is among the lowest in the country and provides meaningful liability protection.

Step 2: Submit Classification Determination Request

Before applying for testing, submit a Classification Determination Request to CID. This step is unique to New Mexico:

• Describe the types of work you do in detail
• Identify the industry (residential, commercial)
• State whether you intend to work as prime contractor
• Mail to: New Mexico Construction Licensing Services, 2820 Broadbent Pkwy NE, Ste E & F, Albuquerque, NM 87107

CID reviews and assigns the appropriate classification — for tile contractors, this is typically GS-29.

Step 3: Document Your Experience

GS-29 requires up to 4 years of experience as determined by CID on a case-by-case basis. For tile work specifically, 2 years (4,000 hours) of practical trade experience is typically required.

Acceptable experience:

• Working as tile installer for licensed tile contractor (W-2 employment)
• Self-employed tile contracting work (with proper documentation)
• Working as foreman or supervisor on tile projects
• Apprenticeship in tile installation

Documentation that works:

• W-2 forms and tax returns from tile employers
• 1099s and tax returns for self-employment
• Notarized sworn statements from licensed contractors who employed you
• Project records and contracts
• Photos of completed work with timestamps

Education substitution:

• Technical training by accredited college, university, or vocational program may count
• Manufacturer's accredited training programs may count
• Approved apprenticeship programs may count

Step 4: Apply to Become a Qualifying Party

Submit a Qualifying Party (QP) application through PSI Exams:

• Apply at public.psiexams.com
• $30 application fee
• $6 certificate fee
• Include experience documentation
• Notarized signature required
• Mail to: PSI Examination Services

Step 5: Take and Pass Both Exams

Once your QP application is approved, schedule both exams.

New Mexico Trade Exam (GS-29):

• 60 questions, multiple choice
• Open book format
• 150-minute time limit
• 75% passing score required
• Topics covered: Surface preparation, installation methods, materials, grout, waterproofing, building codes, safety
• Available at PSI testing centers throughout New Mexico
• Fee: $65

New Mexico Business and Law Exam:

• Multiple choice, open book
• 75% passing score required
• Topics: Construction law, business management, contracts, lien law, employment, taxes, workers' compensation
• Available at PSI testing centers
• Fee: $65

Alternative to Business and Law exam: Complete a 20-hour Business and Law course from a CID-approved provider. Provide official transcript showing passing grade. Saves the exam fee but takes more time.

Pass rates: Approximately 70–80% for first-time test takers. Higher with proper exam prep.

Step 6: Get Your $10,000 Consumer Protection Code Bond

Purchase from any New Mexico-authorized surety provider.

Cost: $150–300/year for $10,000 bond

The Consumer Protection Code Bond is unique to New Mexico. If a contractor fails to correct code violations identified through investigation, CID can authorize release of the bond for assistance in correcting building code violations caused by the licensee. Failure to maintain the bond results in license cancellation.

Step 7: Get Workers' Compensation Insurance

If you have employees, obtain workers' compensation through:

• New Mexico Workers' Compensation Administration
• Private insurers authorized in New Mexico

Solo contractors: File workers' compensation exemption (no employees), typical cost $50.

Step 8: Complete the Contractor License Application

Submit your application to CID with:

• Business entity information
• Qualifying Party certificate
• Bond documentation
• Workers' compensation documentation
• Insurance information
• Application fee ($30)
• Classification fee ($300)

Step 9: Receive Your License

Once approved, you'll receive:

• Your contractor license
• 3-year licensing period
• License expires on the last day of the month it was issued

You're now a licensed New Mexico GS-29 tile contractor.

Insurance and Bond Requirements in Detail

Consumer Protection Code Bond ($10,000)

Purpose: Protects consumers from contractor violations of New Mexico construction code.

Triggers a claim:

• Failure to correct code violations identified through CID investigation
• Building code violations caused by the licensee

Cost: $150–300/year depending on credit and bond company.

Critical: If your bond is canceled or lapses, your license is automatically canceled. Maintain continuous bond coverage.

General Liability Insurance

NOT required by CID at the state level.

HOWEVER, almost universally required by:

• Cities for permits in some cases
• General contractors for subcontractor agreements
• Homeowners through hiring contracts
• Commercial clients

Practical reality: You need general liability insurance even though the state doesn't require it. Standard coverage: $1,000,000 per occurrence. Cost: $700–1,200/year for solo tile contractor.

Workers' Compensation

Required for licensure regardless of employee count, with exemption available for solo contractors.

For solo tile contractors: File exemption affidavit. Cost: ~$50 every 3 years.

For tile contractors with employees: Obtain workers' comp through New Mexico-authorized providers. Cost: $5–15 per $100 of payroll for tile installation class codes.

The 3-Year License Cycle

New Mexico's 3-year license cycle is longer than most states. This has practical implications.

Renewal cost: Same as initial license fees ($30 application + $300 classification fee + bond and insurance maintenance).

Renewal timeline: Renewal forms due at least 30 days before license expiration.

Continuing education: No CE required for general contractor or GS specialty licenses.

Bond renewal: Annual, separate from license renewal.

Insurance renewal: Annual, separate from license renewal.

Critical: Even with a 3-year license cycle, you must maintain continuous bond and insurance coverage. Bond lapses cancel your license immediately.

Lapsed licenses: If you let your license expire, you may need to retake exams to reinstate. Don't let this happen.

Local Requirements: City Building Departments

Your CID license covers you statewide for the contracting work itself. But several New Mexico cities and counties have additional permit and approval requirements. CID grants permitting and inspection authority to local jurisdictions that have approved building departments.

Albuquerque

• Largest city in New Mexico
• Has approved building department with permitting authority
• Permits required for most bathroom remodels and structural work
• Business registration through City of Albuquerque

Santa Fe

• State capital
• Strict permitting due to historic district considerations
• HOA approvals common in many neighborhoods
• City business registration required

Las Cruces

• Second-largest city in New Mexico
• Has approved building department
• Standard permitting requirements

Rio Rancho

• Suburban Albuquerque
• Has its own building department
• Permits required for permitted construction work

Smaller New Mexico cities

Smaller cities (Roswell, Farmington, Carlsbad, Hobbs, Deming, Silver City, Taos) generally rely on either CID directly or county building departments for permitting. Most have minimal contractor registration beyond CID licensing.

Practical advice: Check with the local building department before starting work in any new New Mexico city. Most have minimal additional requirements beyond your CID license.

Permits: When Tile Work Requires Them

New Mexico permitting follows similar logic to other states:

Permits typically required:

• Tile work as part of larger remodel involving structural changes
• Plumbing modifications (drain relocation) — but plumber pulls these
• Electrical work for heated floor systems — but electrician pulls these
• Tile work on commercial properties (almost always permitted)
• Tile work in historic districts (Santa Fe specifically)

Permits typically NOT required:

• Standalone tile floor installation in existing residential
• Backsplash installation
• Standalone shower retiling without plumbing changes
• Tile repair work

New Mexico-specific considerations:

• Mountain elevation requires materials with appropriate freeze-thaw ratings (especially in northern New Mexico, Taos area)
• Historic district requirements in Santa Fe and Taos
• Adobe construction integration in some markets
• HOA approvals common in newer Albuquerque developments

Always check with the local building department before starting work.

Industry Certifications (Optional but Recommended)

Beyond CID licensing, voluntary tile certifications help you stand out in New Mexico's competitive market.

Certified Tile Installer (CTI) - CTEF

• Most recognized voluntary credential nationally
• Requires 2+ years of experience as lead installer
• Multiple-choice exam plus hands-on practical test
• Cost: $400–600

In New Mexico's premium markets (Santa Fe, Taos, Ruidoso, Albuquerque high-end neighborhoods), CTI certification distinguishes you from contractors who just passed the GS-29 exam.

NTCA Five Star Contractor

National Tile Contractors Association tier program. Useful for high-end residential and commercial work.

Manufacturer certifications

Particularly valuable in New Mexico's varied climate (high altitude, freeze-thaw cycles, dry climate, mountain weather):

• Schluter Systems: Critical for waterproofing
• Laticrete: Cold-weather formulations
• Mapei: Wide product range
• Ardex: Substrate prep specialist

Adobe and traditional construction expertise

Specific to New Mexico — knowledge of integrating tile work with adobe and traditional Southwest construction methods is valuable in Santa Fe, Taos, and Albuquerque historic districts.

What Happens If You Work Without a License

New Mexico takes contractor licensing seriously despite the $7,200 exemption.

Legal consequences:

• Criminal charge of unlicensed contracting in Metropolitan or Magistrate Court
• CID can stop construction project immediately
• Cease and desist orders

Civil consequences:

• Cannot enforce mechanic's liens
• Cannot sue to collect payment for work performed
• Customers can sue YOU for full reimbursement
• Insurance claims may be denied

Reputation consequences:

• CID maintains public lookup of unlicensed contractors
• Public discipline records
• Future licensing harder

The bottom line: With license costs at approximately $1,666 first year and a 3-year cycle (averaging $550/year), there's no good reason to work unlicensed if you're above the $7,200 revenue threshold.

Common Questions About New Mexico Tile Contractor Licensing

Why is tile work classified as GS-29 instead of having its own classification?

CID's rules name 19 specific GS specialty classifications (GS-1 through GS-34), but tile installation isn't one of them. The rule explicitly states that any specialty not listed gets classified as GS-29 (Miscellaneous Specialty).

This is uncommon — most states with specialty contractor licensing have a tile-specific classification. New Mexico's catch-all approach means tile contractors share a classification with various other miscellaneous specialties.

Can I really work without a license if I make less than $7,200/year?

Yes, under NMSA 1978, Section 60-13-3. Contracting businesses with less than $7,200 in annual revenue from contracting work are exempt from CID licensing.

However, almost every working tile contractor will exceed this threshold quickly. A single bathroom retile typically generates more than $7,200.

Should I get GS-29, GB-2, or GB-98?

• GS-29: Tile-specific specialty. Cheapest, lowest experience requirement (2 years). Best for solo tile contractors.
• GB-2 Residential: Includes all GS specialty work in residential context. Requires 2 years of foreman-level experience. Better for tile contractors who do whole bathroom remodels.
• GB-98 General: Full scope including commercial. Requires 4 years experience (2 commercial). Best for tile contractors managing multi-trade projects.

Most solo tile contractors should pursue GS-29. The tile-specific scope matches what you actually do.

Can I use my California C-54 in New Mexico?

No direct reciprocity for general or specialty contractors. New Mexico's reciprocity is limited to journeyman electrical and HVAC certifications.

You must complete the full New Mexico process:

• Submit Classification Determination Request
• Document your experience
• Pass both exams (or substitute Business and Law course)
• Get bond and insurance
• Apply through CID

However, your California experience can be used to satisfy the experience documentation requirement.

How does New Mexico compare to neighboring states?

| State | Tile-Specific License | Experience | Trade Exam | Bond | |---|---|---|---|---| | New Mexico | GS-29 (miscellaneous) | 2 years | Yes (60 questions) | $10,000 | | Arizona | R-48/C-48/CR-48 | 4 years | Yes | Volume-based | | Colorado | None at state level | Varies by city | Sometimes | Varies by city | | Texas | None at state level | None | None | None at state | | Utah | S293 | None* | Yes | Typically none |

*Utah recently dropped experience requirements for specialty contractors

New Mexico sits in the middle — required state licensing with relatively modest requirements compared to Arizona or California.

What about reciprocity for journeyman work?

New Mexico has reciprocity with Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming for journeyman ELECTRICAL and HVAC certifications. Tile contractors aren't covered by this reciprocity.

What if my license lapses?

If you let your license expire, you typically need to:

• Reapply through CID
• Possibly retake exams (depending on lapse duration)
• Pay all current fees
• Demonstrate continuous bond and insurance coverage attempt

Don't let your license lapse. Set calendar reminders 60–90 days before the 3-year expiration.

What about working on Native American tribal lands?

New Mexico has multiple Native American jurisdictions including the Navajo Nation, the 19 Pueblos (Acoma, Cochiti, Isleta, Jemez, Laguna, Nambé, Picuris, Pojoaque, San Felipe, San Ildefonso, Sandia, Santa Ana, Santa Clara, Santo Domingo, Taos Pueblo, Tesuque, Zia, Zuni, Ohkay Owingeh), and Apache reservations (Jicarilla and Mescalero).

Tribal contractor requirements vary by jurisdiction. Many tribes accept New Mexico CID licenses; others require tribal-specific licensing. Check with each tribal authority before working on tribal land.

Does my license transfer if I sell my business?

The license is tied to the business entity AND the qualifying party. New owners need:

• Their own qualifying party
• New application
• Their own bond
• New license

Licenses don't transfer with business sales.

What's the New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax thing about?

New Mexico has a Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) instead of a traditional sales tax. Tile contractors are subject to GRT on their services. You'll register with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department for a GRT identification number.

GRT rates vary by location (state + county + city portions). Albuquerque, for example, has a combined rate of around 7.875%. Tile contractors must collect and remit GRT on their work.

Can I add classifications to my license?

Yes. Additional classifications cost $30 application + $65 exam + $50/yr (3-year cycle = $150). Many tile contractors hold multiple classifications:

• GS-29 (tile) + GS-7 (drywall) for whole-bathroom work
• GS-29 + GS-30 (plastering) for stucco-tile combinations
• GB-2 + GS-29 for residential general + tile specialization

Tracking Your License Renewal: Why It Matters

New Mexico contractors have multiple compliance dates that must be tracked:

• CID license expiration (every 3 years)
• Consumer Protection Code Bond (annually)
• General liability insurance (annually)
• Workers' compensation (annually, if applicable)
• GRT filings (monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually)
• Secretary of State annual reports (annually for LLCs/corporations)

Even with a 3-year license cycle, the multiple ongoing compliance requirements need active tracking.

Practical advice: Set calendar reminders 90, 60, and 30 days before each expiration date. Use whatever system works — calendar app, spreadsheet, contractor management software.

This is one of the things TileForeman handles automatically for tile contractors who use it. License expiration tracking with built-in reminders is part of the broader business management software built specifically for tile installers. Whether you use TileForeman or another tracking method, just don't let these dates surprise you.

How New Mexico Compares: The Complete Western US Series

| State | License Required | Bond | Exam | First-Year Cost | |---|---|---|---|---| | Washington | Registration | $15,000 | No | ~$1,150 | | Oregon | Yes (RSC) | $20,000 | Yes (16hr + exam) | ~$2,100 | | Idaho | Registration | None | No | ~$950 | | Montana | Registration only | None | No | ~$200–1,000 | | Utah | Yes (S293) | None typically | Yes (25hr + exam) | ~$1,500 | | California | Yes (C-54) | $25,000 | Yes (4yr exp + 2 exams) | ~$3,000–5,500 | | Nevada | Yes (C-20) | Variable ($1K–$500K) | Yes (4yr exp + 2 exams) | ~$2,500–4,500 | | Arizona | Yes (R-48/C-48/CR-48) | Volume-based ($1K–$100K) | Yes (4yr exp + 2 exams) | ~$2,900–4,500 | | Colorado | No (state) — city varies | None at state | City-specific (Denver: none) | ~$830–2,500 | | Wyoming | No (state) — city varies | City-specific (Gillette: $5K) | City-specific (ICC most common) | ~$870–2,100 | | Texas | No (state) — city varies (Houston: none) | None at state | None at state | ~$1,000–2,500 | | Florida | No — explicitly deregulated 2025 | None | None (statutorily prohibited) | ~$1,365 | | New Mexico | Yes (GS-29 Misc Specialty) | $10,000 | Yes (60 questions + Business/Law) | ~$1,666 |

The full US tile licensing landscape now sorts into five clear buckets:

• Heavy state regulation: California, Oregon, Arizona, Nevada
• Moderate state regulation: Utah, Washington, New Mexico
• Light state regulation: Idaho, Montana
• No state regulation (city-only): Colorado, Wyoming, Texas
• Explicitly deregulated: Florida

With New Mexico added, the entire Western United States is now mapped. Every state from the Pacific coast to the western edge of the Great Plains has a published guide.

Resources for New Mexico Tile Contractors

Official state resources:

• New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID): rld.nm.gov/cid
• New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department: rld.nm.gov
• CID Phone: (505) 476-4500
• CID Address: 2550 Cerrillos Road, 3rd Floor, Santa Fe, NM 87505
• New Mexico Construction Licensing Services (PSI): 2820 Broadbent Pkwy NE, Ste E & F, Albuquerque, NM 87107
• PSI Phone: 877-663-9267

Forms and applications:

• 14.6.6 NMAC Classifications and Scopes (PDF)
• Qualifying Party Application
• Work Experience Affidavit
• Classification Determination Request

Exam testing:

• PSI Exams: psiexams.com
• New Mexico Trade Exam: $65
• Business and Law Exam: $65

Industry organizations:

• Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF): ceramictilefoundation.org
• National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA): tile-assn.com
• Tile Council of North America (TCNA): tcnatile.com

Surety bond providers:

• Bryant Surety Bonds
• JW Surety Bonds
• Local New Mexico insurance brokers

Workers' compensation:

• New Mexico Workers' Compensation Administration: workerscomp.nm.gov

Tax registration:

• New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department: tax.newmexico.gov

Business entity registration:

• New Mexico Secretary of State: sos.state.nm.us

Tracking License Compliance with TileForeman

If you're a licensed New Mexico GS-29 tile contractor, you have multiple compliance dates: CID license renewal (every 3 years), Consumer Protection Code Bond (annually), insurance renewal (annually), workers' comp (if applicable), GRT filings, and Secretary of State reports. Missing any one can suspend your license.

TileForeman automatically tracks license expirations, bond renewals, insurance dates, and tax filing deadlines for tile contractors, with reminders sent 90, 60, and 30 days before each expiration. It's part of the broader business management software built specifically for tile installers.

Try it free at tileforeman.com.

Keep This Information Current

New Mexico's contractor licensing rules have remained relatively stable. The 14.6.6 NMAC rule was last updated March 10, 2022. Specific fees and bond amounts may adjust periodically.

This guide was last verified in April 2026 against CID official sources. Before taking any action based on this information:

• Verify current requirements at rld.nm.gov/cid
• Confirm fees and processes with CID directly at (505) 476-4500
• Check city-specific permitting requirements with the local jurisdiction
• Consult a New Mexico construction attorney for complex situations

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.

This guide is part of TileForeman's state-by-state tile contractor licensing series. View licensing requirements for Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Utah, California, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Wyoming, Texas, and Florida.