RADIATION CONTROL BUREAU
RECIPROCAL RECOGNITION

The Bureau provides reciprocal recognition to certain holders of valid radioactive material licenses and/or radiation machines registrations issued by out-of-state licensing agencies such as Agreement States or the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Radioactive Material Licensees

Section 20.3.3.324 NMAC of the New Mexico Radiation Protection Regulations (20.3 NMAC) provides the criteria for regulating reciprocal recognition of radioactive material licenses.  Reciprocity is granted on a year-to-year basis.  Reciprocal recognition allows the licensee to work on sites within in the State of New Mexico that are not under exclusive federal jurisdiction, for up to 180 days in a calendar year.

To request the Department for reciprocity, submit a letter requesting reciprocity indicating the desired calendar year.  Include a copy of the current, valid license, and $1,200 to cover the licensure fee.  The Bureau will issue a letter of recognition based on the information submitted.

The Bureau's letter of recognition will contain special conditions, including the requirement to carry certain documents when operating in the State.  These documents will include a copy of the reciprocal recognition letter, a copy of applicable sections of the New Mexico Radiation Protection Regulations (20.3 NMAC), a copy of the out-of-state license, an inventory of sources, leak test records, instrument calibration records, personnel training records, and all applicable U.S. Department of Transportation documentation.

Reciprocal radioactive material licensees are required to notify the Bureau in writing three (3) days prior to entering the State and prior to each use of radioactive material.

Radioactive Material Reciprocity forms available by downloading (Microsoft Word format):

Instruction Reciprocity Recognition  (PDF)

Reciprocity 3-day Notification Form  (PDF)

For out-of-state licensees entering New Mexico under reciprocal recognition of their radioactive material licenses.

Radiation Machine Registrants

Section 20.3.2.211 of the New Mexico Radiation Protection Rules (20.3 NMAC) provides the criteria for regulating reciprocal recognition of radiation machine registration or license in another state. Reciprocal recognition of a radiation machine registration will allow the registrant to work on sites within the State of New Mexico for not more than 180 days in a calendar year. Reciprocity is granted on a calendar year basis to expire on or before December 31st or concurrent with the out-of-state registration or license.

To request reciprocity in New Mexico, a letter with a copy of the current out-of-state registration/license and a completed request form should be sent at least 2 days in advance of work in the State to: the NM Environment Department Radiation Control Bureau, 1190 St. Francis Dr. Rm S-2100, P.O. Box 26110, Santa Fe, NM 87502-6110; fax 505-476-3232. The Bureau may request additional information or impose certain conditions in the recognition letter.

A copy of the recognition letter must be maintained on each job site location and all machines and records must be in compliance with the Radiation Protection Rules, subject to inspection during specified hours of use. Any work in the State of New Mexico using out-of-state radiation producing devices is prohibited unless a reciprocal recognition letter from the Department Radiation Control Bureau is issued to the applicant.

Instruction Reciprocity Recognition  (PDF)

Reciprocity 2-day Notification Form  (PDF)

For out-of-state registrants entering New Mexico under reciprocal recognition of their radiation machine registrations.

Do you have questions or comments regarding reciprocity in New Mexico?  If so, please contact the following person:

Applying for Reciprocal Recognition and General Topics
Dan Hill, Manager Radiation Protection Program                                          (505) 476-3236 Phone                                                      
(505) 476-3232 Fax  
dan.hill@state.nm.us