It is illegal to practice counseling in New Mexico without a license. If you do not have a license of another kind (LPCC, LPC, LMFT) etc. then you will have to get the LADAC. Persons with other licenses can treat drug and alcohol use disorders without a LADAC. If you have another license, you are encouraged to pursue other avenues to demonstrate your expertise in substance abuse.
Even if you have another license, your funding may require you to have a LADAC. You will need to check on the specific requirements of your contract for payment. If it is possible to meet the requirements of the contract without getting a LADAC, you are encouraged to pursue a different credential.
The type of credential you pursue depends upon your situation. Persons without an abundance of formal education are still eligible for the CADAC, which does not require a degree.
New Mexico is presently using the NCAC Level I designed and managed by the National Association for Addiction Professionals to license professionals in New Mexico.
If you are thinking about relocating, you should check the requirements in the State or Country to which you are planning to relocate. The LADAC is not a portable credential, it is only good in New Mexico. The CADAC and the NCACI are portable, but only one of them may be accepted by any one State.