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How to Verify a New Mexico Contractor License

In New Mexico, plumbing and mechanical work must be performed by contractors licensed through the Construction Industries Division (CID) of the Regulation & Licensing Department. Checking a license is free and takes minutes — do it for anyone you hire, including anyone we connect you with.

Step by step

1. Open the public license search on the NM Regulation & Licensing Department site at rld.nm.gov (Construction Industries Division → license lookup).
2. Search by business name, individual name, or license number.
3. Confirm the license is active and covers the right trade (plumbing / mechanical classifications for water heater work).
4. Ask for proof of insurance — CID licensing and insurance are separate items.

Red flags

• No license number on the estimate or invoice.
• A name mismatch between the license and the business you're dealing with.
• Pressure to skip permits — water heater replacement generally requires a permit in New Mexico; the contractor should handle it.

Ready for help instead? Call (833) 567-5831 or browse our NM service areas.