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FAQ – Limited License

Limited License Applicants

Frequently Asked Questions

Following are some FAQs relating to limited license admissions. Please also see FAQ for All Applicants.

Who can apply for Limited License?

Under Rules 15-304, 15-305, 15-306, 15-307, and 15-308, attorneys who are licensed in another state are eligible for a limited license if they:

  • Work for the public defender’s office, state or local government, and some qualified civil legal service providers
  • Are a “military spouse”
  • Work as in-house counsel for one employer or
  • Are a law professor for the University of New Mexico School of Law

Each of the limited license types will allow legal work with specific limitations.

Who is eligible for a temporary/conditional limited license and how does that work?

For government attorneys and military spouses, your initial application will be reviewed to determine if you meet the basic qualifications for admission. Your application will be reviewed and, within ten (10) business days, the Board will file a Motion with the Supreme Court for the issuance of a conditional limited license if you meet all qualifications and your application is complete.  Your character and fitness review and completing all remaining application items are required within twelve (12) months to maintain your limited license.

You will be eligible to begin practicing law when your conditional limited license is approved.

Is an MPRE score required for Limited License?

Yes, it is required. A scaled score of 80 or above must be achieved.

When should I submit my fingerprints?

You can get fingerprinted prior to submitting your application. You have one year from the time you submit your application to the NMBBE to get fingerprinted. Instructions on the fingerprint process and a form to request fingerprint cards for out-of-state applicants are on our website here: https://nmexam.org/more-application-items/fingerprint/

Do limited licenses expire?

No, so long as you still qualify for the limited license, there is no expiration date.

Is the class on NM Law required for Limited License?

Yes, although it is not required to initially obtain your temporary limited license if you are working for a government agency or are a military spouse.

It will need to be completed before your Character and Fitness evaluation is complete.

Do people seeking Limited License in NM go through a character and background investigation?

Yes. 

What if I want to seek full admission?

If you decide to seek full admission, you will file an entirely new application for full admission via reciprocal admission, UBE score transfer, or bar examination.  

If you practice under a New Mexico limited license for five out of seven years, you may be eligible to apply for full admission under reciprocity.  Please review Rule 15-303 NMRA.

What do I do if I leave government employment, change government employment, or no longer qualify as a military spouse?
You have an obligation to inform the Board so that the appropriate pleadings can be filed with the Supreme Court.  Failure to do so could result in revocation of your limited license, character and fitness proceedings, or a denial of a future request for a limited license.