New Mexico Public Education Department Licensure in Athletic Coaching
An athletic coaching license is required for all coaches, head or assistant, paid or volunteer, for any athletic sport, including cheer, dance or drill, grades 7-12. This requirement applies to all public NMAA member schools (NMPED regulation) and to all non-public NMAA member schools (NMAA regulation).
The following components must be completed and submitted to NMPED to secure a coaching license:
· NMPED Licensure Application Form and Fee
· “NMAA Coaches Training Program – Level 1/NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching” online course – click on www.nfhslearn.com, register as a user from
· Fingerprinting cards/Background Check and Fee
Processing your licensure application:
· The best source of information and assistance in the licensure application process is your local school/HR department licensure specialist
· If you are seeking licensure without school/district assistance, information is directly available from the New Mexico Public Education Department Professional License Bureau at www.ped.state.nm.us or 505.827.5821.
*Note - NMAA Spirit Coaches Requirement – NMAA requires that all Cheer and Dance coaches also complete the “AACCA Safety Course for Cheer and Dance”, www.nfhslearn.com, ($75.00, 2-3 hours online).
Additional Licensure Resources:
Click here for the complete licensure in Athletic Coaching Regulation.