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Plumbing is just one of many skilled trades that offer opportunities for stable work, good pay, and — for some experienced professionals — the option to become your own boss. You also gain the satisfaction of helping businesses and homeowners maintain safe and functional properties.

As a plumber, you may be permitted to install, inspect, repair, and alter plumbing systems. You have the option of working with numerous systems, including the following: 

• Pipefitting
• Gas
• Sprinklers
• Refrigeration
• Fire protection

Obtaining your plumbing license from the New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) opens the door to professional success in whatever area you prefer to work in, but your license is only valid for so long. 

At this point, you may be wondering: who has to renew a license, how often do you need to renew, and what are the requirements? Learn more in this guide to New Mexico plumbing license renewals.

Which Classifications Require Renewal?

In New Mexico, professionals with Journeyman classifications are required to submit to license renewal. This includes:

• Journeyman Plumber
• Journeyman Pipefitter
• Journeyman Gas
• Journeyman Plumber-Gas
• Journeyman Sheet Metal
• Journeyman Sprinkler
• Journeyman Refrigeration
• Journeyman Fire Protection (MS-12J or MS-14J)

Failure to meet requirements for renewal will result in your license expiring, interrupting your ability to legally perform job duties and earn a living.

How Often to Renew Your License

In New Mexico, plumbing licenses require renewal every three years based on the month your license was issued. It expires on the last day of the month in which it was issued, three years from the date of issue. Thus, if you were issued a license on June 15, 2022, it would expire on June 30, 2025.

Requirements for License Renewal

You will not have to take any exam to renew your license, but you will have to complete a state-approved New Mexico Plumbing Continuing Education program. This includes eight hours covering updates and changes to the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), along with eight hours of industry-related coursework. 

You can complete an 8-hour UPC course paired with other approved continuing education (CE) courses focused on your industry. Alternatively, you can simply take a single 16-hour program that covers it all.

Finding the Right Renewal Program

Selecting the right CE program for license renewal can save you time and money. How do you know which program has what you’re looking for, though? Start with a course designed for working professionals that offers self-paced learning with 24/7 online access to materials. This means you can set a schedule that works for you.

Courses created by industry experts and educators will offer the resources you need to advance in your field and deliver the most up-to-date services to your clientele. You should also look for programs that provide lifetime access to course materials so you can refer to them as needed to refresh your memory.

Make sure to choose a program that provides an instant Certificate of Completion for your records and sends daily notifications to the state on your behalf. This helps ensure timely renewal.

Are you looking to get a jump on renewing your plumbing license in New Mexico? RocketCert has everything you need to complete your required CE courses. Contact us now to get started.