Six Ways to Apply For Admission
First Time Bar Exam
For applicants who have never taken the New Mexico Bar exam, recent graduates, or those who cannot apply by using one of these other options.
Re-Examination
For those applicants who did not pass the New Mexico Bar exam and need to retake the exam.
Transfer UBE Score
For applicants who have taken the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE) within the last five years and obtained a score of 260 or above.
Reciprocity
For attorneys licensed outside of the state of New Mexico, with at least five (5) years of practice.
Limited License
For attorneys licensed outside of New Mexico working in New Mexico government jobs or with approved legal service agencies. Special admission options for military spouses.
Reinstatement
For New Mexico attorneys who have been inactive for more than one year or suspended.
Coming in 2027: New Skills-Based Examination
About New Mexico Bar Admissions
The New Mexico Bar has six ways to apply for admissions, including:
Coming in 2027: Skills Based Examination ("SBE")
Anticipated Start Date for Applications: Summer 2027
The New Mexico Supreme Court has approved a new form of licensure: the Skills Based Examination (“SBE”). The rules governing this method of licensure are being drafted and will be reviewed and approved by the New Mexico Supreme Court. We will publish an official start date for applications when that date is finalized. We cannot answer questions about specific qualifications or give advisory opinions as to whether an applicant will qualify. You can find updates regarding rule making activity here: Rules & Forms – Supreme Court
For additional details:
Rules Governing Admission
All applicants must read and adhere to the Rules Governing Admission. Admission to the New Mexico Bar is governed by Rules 15-101 to 608 NMRA.