Licensed Solar Contractor in New Mexico: How to Verify Before You Hire

April 8, 2026 — 6 min read

Does New Mexico Require a License for Solar Installation?

Yes, New Mexico requires a contractor license for solar installation. Contractors must be licensed through the New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department. Solar electrical work specifically falls under the EE98 electrical license classification, making New Mexico one of the states with a clear, statewide licensing pathway for solar contractors.

New Mexico has been a solar leader in the Southwest, consistently ranking among the top states for solar capacity per capita. The Solar Energy Industries Association has recognized New Mexico for its strong net metering policies and solar access rights laws. With a robust and growing market, verifying that your solar contractor holds the proper EE98 license is an essential first step before any installation begins.

Which Agency Issues Solar Contractor Licenses in New Mexico?

The New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department (RLD) is the state agency responsible for issuing and regulating contractor licenses, including the EE98 electrical license classification that covers solar electrical work. The Construction Industries Division within the RLD administers contractor licensing statewide and maintains the official license database.

The EE98 classification is specifically designated for electrical work, including the wiring, inverter installation, and grid interconnection that are core components of any solar installation. A contractor performing solar work in New Mexico must hold a valid EE98 license issued by the RLD's Construction Industries Division. Simply holding a general contractor license or a residential contractor license is not sufficient for the electrical scope of a solar project.

New Mexico's licensing system also requires contractors to demonstrate competency through examinations administered by third-party testing organizations. The exams cover the New Mexico Electrical Code, the National Electrical Code, and trade-specific knowledge. This exam requirement helps ensure that licensed contractors have the technical foundation to safely design and install solar systems.

How Do You Verify a Solar Contractor's License in New Mexico?

You can verify a New Mexico solar contractor's license through the official online lookup provided by the New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department at rld.nm.gov. The Construction Industries Division license search allows you to look up a contractor by name, license number, or business name to confirm current license status and classification.

When verifying, check that the license status is active, that the EE98 classification appears on the license, and that the license has not expired or been suspended. Also review whether any disciplinary actions or complaints are associated with the license record. The RLD database is publicly accessible and updated regularly, making it a reliable source for verification.

In addition to license verification, confirm with your local municipality or county that building permits will be obtained for the solar installation. New Mexico requires permits for solar projects, and the permit process triggers mandatory inspections by the Construction Industries Division or local authority. An inspection is your independent verification that the work was done correctly and to code.

What Are New Mexico's Bond Requirements for Solar Contractors?

New Mexico requires licensed electrical contractors to post a $10,000 surety bond as a condition of obtaining and maintaining their EE98 license. This bond provides a layer of financial protection for consumers if a contractor fails to complete work as contracted or causes damage that they refuse to remedy. The bond is not the same as insurance—it is a separate financial instrument held by a bonding company.

Beyond the required bond, reputable New Mexico solar contractors should also carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. General liability protects you if installation work damages your property—a common concern with rooftop solar, where improper mounting can cause roof leaks. Workers' compensation protects you from liability if an installer is injured on your property.

Ask your contractor to provide a copy of their surety bond certificate and current insurance certificates before signing any contract. Verify the bond is current and that the bonding company is licensed to operate in New Mexico. A $10,000 bond provides meaningful but limited protection—it does not cover all possible losses, so insurance remains important.

What Does the EE98 License Classification Mean for Solar Work?

The EE98 classification in New Mexico's licensing system designates an electrical contractor license that authorizes the holder to perform electrical contracting work, including the wiring and electrical components of solar installations. This classification is distinct from mechanical or plumbing trade licenses and is specifically the credential required for contractors doing the electrical scope of solar projects.

When you hire a solar company in New Mexico, the company should hold an EE98 license as a business entity. The licensed qualifier—the individual whose credentials back the license—must be affiliated with the company and responsible for overseeing the work. If a solar salesperson cannot provide an EE98 license number for their company, that is a serious warning sign. Do not proceed without verifying this credential at rld.nm.gov.

What Are the Risks of Hiring an Unlicensed Solar Contractor in New Mexico?

Hiring an unlicensed solar contractor in New Mexico violates state law and exposes you to significant consequences. The New Mexico Construction Industries Division actively investigates unlicensed contractor complaints and can levy fines on contractors operating without a license. For consumers, the risks include unsafe electrical work, failed inspections, and financial losses from systems that cannot be legally interconnected to the grid.

New Mexico's Public Regulation Commission oversees utility net metering programs, and utilities will not approve interconnection for systems that did not pass required inspections. A system installed by an unlicensed contractor that fails inspection may need to be fully rewired or removed at your expense. Given that residential solar installations typically cost $15,000 to $30,000, the stakes of getting this wrong are high.

New Mexico makes it straightforward to hire legally and safely—use the RLD's lookup at rld.nm.gov or run a fast verification through CheckLicensed.com for just $0.99. Protect your investment before the first panel goes up.