New Mexico

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Quick Facts

Population1: 2,088,070
Number of Law Enforcement Agencies2: 146
Officers per 100,000 Population2: 252
Average Annual Salary (Patrol)3: $52,320

U.S. Census Bureau, 2017
2 Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2008
3 Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017

Police Jobs in New Mexico

The information and links below are specific to this state and may be helpful in your employment search.

Basic Selection Standards

This state requires that sworn law enforcement officers meet the minimum selection standards listed below. (NOTE: Individual agencies may have more stringent requirements.)

U.S. Citizen:
Yes
Minimum Age Range:
18-20
Minimum Education:
High School/GED
Disqualifying Convictions (felony, misdemeanor, and/or other):
Felony, Misdemeanor

Pre-employment Screening

Candidates for sworn law enforcement positions in this state are subject to the pre-employment screening practices listed below. (NOTE: Individual agencies may employ additional procedures.)

Background Investigation:
Yes
Minimum Physical Standards:
Yes
Psychological Exam:
Yes

Find Law Enforcement Agency Contact Information

Search our agency directory for a listing of state and local law enforcement agencies in this state. Results will display agency name, contact information, and basic facts about the department, including agency size and population served.

Related Links

The entities listed and linked below will connect you to state-specific law enforcement resources that may be helpful in your employment search.

  • State police and highway patrol provide statewide law enforcement services and enforce state and federal traffic laws. Their Web sites will connect you to available job opportunities within the agency and offer insight into the agency’s approach to statewide public safety services.

New Mexico State Police

  • State Commissions on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POSTs) or similar entities establish minimum selection, education, and training standards for law enforcement officers, and serve as the certification or licensing authority for sworn personnel. In some cases the POST conducts training for all sworn personnel in the state. These agencies may be helpful in getting an idea of this state’s approach to law enforcement training.

New Mexico Department of Public Safety, Training and Recruiting Division