Dry needling in New Mexico: the rules for physical therapists

New Mexico's PT rule (16.20.13.8 NMAC) allows dry needling by licensed PTs who meet the training requirements. A 2025 update kept the 24 hours and 6 months.

Allowedfor PTs

A board-approved course of at least 24 hours with written and in-person practical training, plus 6 months of licensed practicetraining before you start

Rules to know

Courses must cover indications, contraindications, risks, hygiene, needle use and disposal, and patient selection.
Don't needle high-risk areas without specific training for them.
It can't be delegated to PTAs, aides or other assistive personnel.
Provide proof of training if the board or a member of the public asks; without it, you aren't permitted to dry needle.

Official sources

A plain-language summary, last checked October 24, 2026. Dry needling rules change often and some states regulate it through board statements rather than law, so confirm with your board before you dry needle. OTs and athletic trainers have their own rules.

Dry needling courses in New Mexico

1 upcoming in-person course. Make sure a course's hours and format meet New Mexico's rules before you register.

December 2026

Fri–Sun, Dec 11–13, 2026 · 3 days IDN Foundation Course $1,295 · Albuquerque Integrative Dry Needling· University of New MexicoDry Needling Details and registration

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Common questions

Can physical therapists dry needle in New Mexico?

Yes. New Mexico's PT rule (16.20.13.8 NMAC) allows dry needling by licensed PTs who meet the training requirements. A 2025 update kept the 24 hours and 6 months.

How much training do PTs need to dry needle in New Mexico?

A board-approved course of at least 24 hours with written and in-person practical training, plus 6 months of licensed practice.