Who Issues Wildlife Rehabilitation Permits in New Mexico?
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) is the primary authority for wildlife rehabilitation permits in New Mexico. New Mexico's Chihuahuan desert and mountain environments support species not common in other regions.
Rehabilitators handling migratory birds must also obtain a federal permit from USFWS Region 2. Your state permit must come first — see the federal permit guide for that process.
Core Requirements
- Age 18 or older
- Complete an approved training course: NWRA or IWRC training
- Facility meeting New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) minimum standards for your intended species
- Written veterinary support from a licensed New Mexico veterinarian
- Pass a facility inspection by New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF)
- Submit complete application with all documentation
Application Steps
Complete Required Training
Complete NWRA or IWRC training. Contact the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) or your state wildlife rehabilitation association for current approved providers and schedules.
Prepare Your Facility
Build or certify enclosures meeting New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) minimum standards. Use the free facility checklist as a starting framework, then verify against New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF)'s current published requirements.
Secure Veterinary Support
Get written confirmation from a licensed New Mexico veterinarian agreeing to provide care to your rehabilitation animals. See tips for finding sponsors and vets.
Submit Your Application
Contact the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) wildlife permits office to obtain the current application form and submit with all supporting documentation. Application fee: None.
Pass Facility Inspection
A New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) representative will inspect your facility before your permit is issued. Review the facility inspection guide to prepare. Estimated total timeline: 5–11 months.
Permit Renewal in New Mexico
Permits in New Mexico are renewed annually. Annual activity reports documenting intakes and outcomes are required. See the permit renewal guide for details.
Getting the Federal Bird Permit for New Mexico
New Mexico falls under USFWS Region 2. After receiving your state permit, apply via fws.gov/epermits (Form 3-200-10b) with 100 documented hours per bird category, facility photos, and a copy of your state permit. Processing typically takes 6–14 weeks. Full details: federal permit guide.
Yes. New Mexico law prohibits possession of native wildlife without a permit. The 24–48 hour transport exception allows you to move an injured animal to a licensed rehabilitator — but does not authorize care. See the full legal guide.
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) can provide a list of currently permitted rehabilitators in your region. The NWRA and IWRC directories also list members. Your state wildlife rehabilitation association is a key resource for introductions and mentorship opportunities.
Deer rehabilitation in New Mexico requires authorization beyond the standard permit due to CWD management concerns. Contact the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) directly for current deer rehabilitation policy — restrictions are actively managed and can change. Most individual home-based rehabilitators are not authorized for deer.