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New Mexico

Who said getting your New Mexico driver’s license is hard? It doesn't have to be with practice tests like the New Mexico permit practice test and the New Mexico driver’s license renewal test. These practice tests make the written exam easier.

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New Mexico MVD Frequently Asked Questions

Table of Contents

    If I'm under 18, are there any limits to my driver's license?

    Yes. New Mexico follows a graduated driver's license (GDL) system, which allocates different driving responsibilities over a period of time.

    If you're under 18 and driving on your instructional permit, you will ONLY be allowed to drive while accompanied by:

    • A parent or legal guardian.
    • A licensed driving instructor.
    • A fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old.

    If you're under 18 and driving on your provisional license, you'll be able to drive by yourself EXCEPT between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m., unless you are:

    • Accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old.
    • Driving because of a medical emergency.
    • Driving to or from a school or religious event.
    • Driving to or home from work.

    Once you turn 18, you'll be eligible for your unrestricted driver's license.

    What happens after I pass my NM road test?

    After passing the New Mexico road test, you'll be eligible to receive your license.

    Once I have my permit, who can I drive with?

    While driving on your permit, you'll be able to drive with:

    • A parent or legal guardian.
    • A licensed driving instructor.
    • A fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old.

    You may not drive unless accompanied by one of the above.

    Once I get my NM permit, what do I need to do before I can drive with my parents?

    Once you earn your New Mexico learner's permit, you will automatically be eligible to drive with your parents.

    What must I do after I've applied for my NM license?

    As long as you successfully pass the driving exams, sign the proper paperwork, and pay the fee, you'll be issued your license after applying.

    Where do I go to apply for my driver's license in NM?

    You'll have to apply at a participating Driver and Vehicle Services office.

    Most offices will process driver's license applications, but not all of them. Make sure to check online for the full list of licensing centers.

    What document is an acceptable proof of my legal presence in the United States?

    Appropriate documents depend on whether you're a:

    • U.S. citizen.
    • Immigrant/permanent resident.
    • Non-immigrant.

    Some common forms of ID include a:

    • U.S. birth certificate or passport.
    • Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship.
    • Valid alien registration card.

    More information can be found through the New Mexico MVD.

    What documents do I need to apply for my license if I am over the age of 18?

    The type of acceptable documents depend on whether you want a regular license or a REAL ID.

    Regardless, you'll need to bring proof of your:

    • Identification.
    • New Mexico address.
    • Social Security number.

    What documents do I need to apply for my license if I am under the age of 18?

    To apply for your license when you're under 18 in New Mexico, you'll need:

    To complete the process, you'll also need to pass all the tests and pay the appropriate fee.

    What are the requirements to get a license in NM if I'm under 18?

    To go from your provisional license to your full license in New Mexico, you must:

    • Practice on your provisional license for at least 12 months.
    • Have no traffic violation convictions within 90 days of applying.
    • Have no pending traffic violations at the time of applying.
    • Have not plead guilty for any drug or alcohol offenses during the provisional practice period.

    What are the requirements to get a license in NM if I'm 18 or older?

    To get your driver's license in NM if you're 18 or older, you'll need to:

    • Successfully pass a:
      • Vision exam.
      • Knowledge test.
      • Written exam.
    • Show proof of your:
      • Identity.
      • New Mexico residency.
      • Social Security number.
    • Pay the driver's license fee.

    When can I take my road test and get my license in New Mexico?

    If you're under 18 and using the state's graduated license system, you'll have to practice on your provisional license for at least 12 months before you can take the driving test.

    If you're 18 or older and applying for a first-time license, there is no required waiting period.

    My NM license was suspended but I need to drive to my job or to school. What can I do?

    If your license has been suspended or revoked in New Mexico, it may be possible to apply for a Hardship License, which will allow you to drive in limited circumstances.

    How do I Get My NM Hardship License?

    To obtain a restricted license in New Mexico, you'll have to petition the county which issued the revocation.

    This process involves:

    • Paying fines.
    • Submitting proof of financial responsibility from your insurance carrier.
    • Providing proof of need from your employer, school, or physician.
    • Passing a DWI course, if the suspension was DWI-related.

    Successfully petitioning the court for a hardship license is difficult in New Mexico. You should contact the MVD or your lawyer for further help.

    Do I have to take the written exam again when taking my NM road test?

    No. You'll only need to pass the written exam once to move on.

    What will I have to do on my NM road test?

    First, you'll meet with an examiner, who will make sure you have the proper documentation and your vehicle meets the state's safety standards.

    Once the test begins, the examiner will ask you to perform certain tasks, demonstrating your ability to control the vehicle. You may be judged on your:

    • Skill in handling the vehicle in traffic.
    • Driving habits.
    • Working knowledge and understanding of traffic signs.
    • Working knowledge and understanding of rules of the road.
    • Ability to physically, mentally, and emotionally handle the stress of driving.
    • Attitude toward driving.
    • Attitude toward personal and public safety.

    You may also be judged on or asked to perform additional tasks.

    What tips should I know to pass my NM road test?

    You must arrive to your test with a fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old. If you don't, you will not be able to take the test.

    Make sure the vehicle is clean, especially the seat the instructor will be using.

    You must also have/bring the following:

    • Your valid learner's permit.
    • Valid vehicle registration.
    • Proof of vehicle insurance.

    Who can accompany me to my NM driving exam?

    You must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old.

    What standards must the vehicle I choose for my road test meet?

    The vehicle you take your New Mexico, NM road test must meet all state vehicle safety standards, including fully-functioning:

    • Horn.
    • Headlights, taillights, and brake lights.
    • Turn signals.
    • Seat belts.
    • Tires.
    • Windshield wipers.
    • Brakes.
    • Speedometer.
    • Muffler.

    The vehicle must also have valid and up-to-date:

    • Registration.
    • Insurance.
    • Inspection sticker.

    Where do I go to take my NM road test?

    Take your road test at your closest participating Motor Vehicle Division office.

    How much is an NM permit or license?

    Currently, permit and licensing fees in New Mexico include:

    • Learner's permit: $10.
    • 4-year license: $18.
    • 8-year license: $34.

    Fees are subject to change, so it's best to check directly with the NM Motor Vehicle Division for the most up-to-date information.

    Where can I get an NM Driver's Licensing Handbook?

    The New Mexico Driver's Manual is available online. You can also ask your local NM MVD office for a copy.

    When can I get my driver's license?

    In New Mexico, you must be at least:

    • 15 years old to apply for a permit.
    • 15 Âœ years old to apply for a provisional license.
    • 18 years old to apply for a full license.

    What is the cost of the permit and license application?

    Currently, permit and licensing fees in New Mexico include:

    • Learner's permit: $10.
    • 4-year license: $18.
    • 8-year license: $34.

    Fees are subject to change, so it's best to check directly with the NM Motor Vehicle Division for the most up-to-date information.

    Do I have to pass a drug test before obtaining my NM instruction permit?

    No. There is no requirement to pass a drug test before being issued your New Mexico driving permit.

    Is the NM permit test open book?

    No. The New Mexico, NM written exam is not open book, which is why it's especially important to study or take a practice test beforehand.

    Do I have to bring my parents with me when I take my permit test?

    Yes. Your parent or legal guardian will have to sign paperwork on your behalf at this appointment.

    What documents do I need to bring with me to take my permit test if I am under 18 years old?

    To apply for your learner's permit in New Mexico, you'll need to bring in:

    When am I eligible to apply for my NM permit?

    You can apply for your New Mexico learner's permit once you turn 15 years old.

    How do I apply for an NM permit?

    Before you can apply for your NM learner's permit, you must:

    Once that's done, schedule an appointment with your closest participating MVD office and:

    • Bring:
      • Proof of your:
        • Identity.
        • Social Security number.
        • New Mexico residence.
    • Pass the:
      • Vision test.
      • Written driving test (if not completed in your Driver's Ed course.)
    • Pay the learner's permit fee.

    Your parent or guardian will also have to be with you to sign paperwork on your behalf.

    Once the paperwork is filed, tests passed, and fee paid, you'll be issued your learner's permit.

    What kind of questions should I expect on the NM permit test?

    The New Mexico written driver's exam consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. General topics include:

    • New Mexico traffic laws.
    • Safe driving practices.
    • Identifying traffic signs and signals by:
      • Shape.
      • Color.
      • Symbol.
    • Identifying paving markings.

    All questions will be sourced directly from the NM Driver's Manual, though you may also want to study with a free practice test.

    Do I need to complete a Driver's Education course in order to be eligible for an NM learner's permit?

    Yes.

    Before you can apply for your permit, you'll have to successfully complete a state-approved Driver's Ed course.

    What should I use to study for my NM permit test?

    Reading the New Mexico Driver's Manual is the best idea to learn the information.

    You can also find a number of practice tests online.

    Do I need to complete a vision test before I apply?

    Yes. You'll have to pass a vision test to earn your NM driver's license.

    Do I need to do a medical physical exam before I obtain a permit in NM?

    No. A physical exam is not required for a New Mexico driver's license.

    Who do I need to bring with me for my permit test in NM?

    You must arrive to the appointment with a parent or legal guardian.

    How can I contact the MVD office in NM?

    You can contact the New Mexico, NM Motor Vehicle Division by:

    • Email.
    • Phone.
    • Regular mail.
    • On social media.

    Details can be found on the NM Motor Vehicle Division's website.

    At what age can I apply for my permit in New Mexico?

    You can apply for your learner's permit in New Mexico once you turn 15.

    What restrictions, if any, are there for new drivers?

    If you're under 18 and driving on your instructional permit, you will ONLY be allowed to drive while accompanied by:

    • A parent or legal guardian.
    • A licensed driving instructor.
    • A fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old.

    If you're under 18 and driving on your provisional license, you'll be able to drive by yourself EXCEPT between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m., unless you are:

    • Accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old.
    • Driving because of a medical emergency.
    • Driving to or from a school or religious event.
    • Driving to or home from work.

    Once you turn 18, you'll be eligible for your unrestricted driver's license.

    If you're applying for a first-time license in New Mexico and you're 18 or older, you will have to drive with a fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old until you complete the process.

    What restrictions come with my driver's permit?

    While driving on your instructional permit, you will ONLY be allowed to drive if accompanied by:

    • A parent or legal guardian.
    • A licensed driving instructor.
    • A fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old.

    On your provisional license, you'll be able to drive by yourself EXCEPT between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m., unless you are:

    • Accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old.
    • Driving because of a medical emergency.
    • Driving to or from a school or religious event.
    • Driving to or home from work.

    What documents must I fill out at the MVD to get my permit/driver's license?

    To earn your permit in New Mexico, you (and your parent or guardian) will need to fill out an official application, which will be given to you by the MVD.

    What tests must I pass?

    To get your New Mexico driver's license, you'll have to pass:

    • A vision exam.
    • The written test.
    • A driving skills test.

    What driver's education is required?

    If you're under 18 and applying for a first-time license in New Mexico, you'll have to pass a state-approved Driver's Ed course before you can apply for your permit.

    What do I need before I can get my NM permit?

    Before you're eligible to apply for a New Mexico learner's permit, you must:

    At your permit appointment, you'll also need to:

    • Pass the state's written exam.
    • Pass an eye exam.

    What are the requirements to apply for my NM provisional license?

    Before you're eligible to apply for a New Mexico provisional license, you must:

    • Be at least 15 Âœ years old.
    • Practice for at least 6 months on your permit.
    • Log at least 50 hours of behind-the-wheel practice.
      • At least 10 hours must be at night.
    • Pass the NM driving exam.

    Do I need to take another eye exam before renewing my NM driver's license?

    Yes. If you're applying for a New Mexico license renewal in-person, you'll have to pass a vision test.

    Can I renew my license by mail?

    No. New Mexico does not allow mail-in license renewals.

    Can I renew my NM driver's license online?

    Yes. New Mexico allows residents to renew their license online.

    What documents do I need to renew my license?

    To renew your license in New Mexico, you'll need to bring in:

    You'll also need to successfully pass a vision screening in order to complete the process.

    How can I renew my New Mexico driver's license?

    You can renew your New Mexico driver's license:

    • In-person.
    • Online.

    The NM MVD's site has more information on these options.

    When can I renew my NM license?

    It depends. New Mexico licenses are good for either 4 or 8 years.

    Regardless, you can renew your license up to 90 days before its official expiration date.

    How much does it cost to renew my license in New Mexico?

    NM license renewals cost:

    • $18 for a 4-year license.
    • $34 for an 8-year license.

    Fees are subject to change. You should check with the New Mexico MVD before renewing your license for the most up-to-date information.

    Can I have anyone in the car with me during my NM road test?

    No. When you take the test, it will only be you and the examiner in the car.

    However, you'll have to arrive to the test a fully-licensed passenger who's at least 21 years old.

    Can I take the NM MVD knowledge test online?

    The NM written knowledge exam consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. You will be able to get 7 questions wrong and still pass.

    Studying with a free practice test may help ensure you get far more questions right than wrong!

    How many times can you take the MVD written knowledge test in New Mexico?

    You can take the New Mexico written test as many times as needed in order to pass.

    However, if you fail, you'll have to wait at least 1 business day before you can take the test again. Save yourself the time and hassle by studying with a free practice test!

    Is the NM MVD written knowledge test multiple choice?

    Yes, every question on the test is multiple choice.

    What should I bring to the New Mexico MVD written knowledge test?

    At the same appointment you take your written test, you'll also have to bring:

    • Proof of your:
      • Identity.
      • Social Security number.
      • New Mexico residence.
    • The Completion Certificate for your Driver's Education program, if under 18.
    • The appropriate fee.

    A parent or legal guardian will also have to be present to sign paperwork on your behalf.

    What's on the NM MVD written knowledge test?

    The New Mexico written driver's exam consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. Major topics include:

    • New Mexico traffic laws.
    • Safe driving practices.
    • Identifying traffic signs and signals by:
      • Shape.
      • Color.
      • Symbol.
    • Identifying paving markings.

    All questions will be sourced directly from the NM Driver's Manual, though you may also want to study with a free practice test.

    Do I need an appointment for the MVD knowledge test in New Mexico?

    Yes. You can schedule your appointment online.

    Does the NM MVD provide written knowledge tests on Saturdays?

    Some NM MVD locations may be open on Saturdays. You'll have to check online when scheduling an appointment.

    What format can I take my test? (written, computer?)

    Your written knowledge exam will be administered on the computer at the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division office.

    If you have special needs or language preferences other than English, you can arrange alternate formats with the NM MVD.

    Make sure the New Mexico, NM Motor Vehicle Division is aware of any additional help you may need when scheduling your appointment.

    How do I schedule a driving exam?

    You can schedule your driving exam online.

    What happens after I pass my permit test?

    After you pass the permit test, you'll be issued your instructional permit. You must practice on this permit for at least 6 months before you can move on to your provisional license.

    Where can I take my permit test in NM?

    You can take the test in person at any participating MVD office.

    What should I do if I failed my NM road test?

    If you failed your NM road test, you'll have the chance to reschedule and try again.

    In the meantime don't panic, practice!

    When can I retake my NM driving exam if I failed?

    If you failed your New Mexico driving skills test, you'll have to wait at least 1 business day before you can try again.

    Do I have to wait to retake my written test if I fail?

    Yes. If you fail your written exam, you will have to wait at least 1 day before retesting.

    Save yourself the time by taking a free practice test to help you pass the first time!

    What happens if I don't pass my written test?

    If you don't pass your written test in NM, you'll have to wait at least 1 business day before you can take another shot.

    Practicing with a free practice test can help you pass on the first try!

    How long can I drive in NM with my out-of-state license if I am a visitor?

    If you have no intention of permanently relocating to New Mexico, there's no limit on how long you can drive on your out-of-state license. This includes anyone in the state for:

    • School.
    • Active military duty.
    • Seasonal housing.

    If you do plan on relocating to New Mexico permanently, you have 60 days after establishing residency to transfer your license.

    Will my out-of-state permit be accepted in New Mexico?

    Yes. New Mexico recognizes out-of-state learner's permits.

    If I am moving to NM from another state, do I need to pass an NM driving test?

    Possibly.

    If you're a new resident to the state and you're between ages 18-24, you will have to pass an at-home None for the Road DUI program before you can apply to change your license.

    If your previous license has been expired for more than 1 year, you will also have to take the New Mexico written and driving exams.

    When is the deadline to get an NM license after I move?

    If you're moving to New Mexico, you have 60 days from establishing residency to transfer your out-of-state license.

    What are common mistakes applicants make on the NM permit test?

    The biggest mistake people make is taking the test for granted.

    While it's not necessarily designed to be tricky, it can be difficult if you don't study the laws.

    Make sure to give yourself enough time to study the NM Driver's Manual and take some free practice tests in order to give yourself the best chance possible for passing.

    How many questions do I need to answer correctly in order to pass?

    The New Mexico written exam consists of 25 questions, and you must answer at least 18 of them correctly in order to pass.

    How many questions are on the NM permit test?

    There are 25 total questions on the NM permit exam, all of which are multiple choice.

    What are the auto insurance requirements for NM drivers?

    New Mexico auto insurance minimum requirements include:

    • Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident.
    • Uninsured motorist bodily injury: $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident.
    • Property damage liability: $10,000 per accident.

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    How To Get A New Mexico Driver’s License

    Driving can afford wonderful freedom—but only if you can prove you’re responsible.

    In order to legally drive in New Mexico, you must pass a number of tests that show the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) that you can handle a vehicle and follow the rules of the road.

    Still, the process looks slightly different, depending on your age and the type of vehicle you want to drive.

    New Mexico Graduated Driver’s License (GLD) Program (Under Age 18)

    The NM MVD has a system called the Graduated Driver’s License, which allocates certain driving privileges over a period of time.

    If you’re under 18, you must use this system to earn your license.

    Learner’s Permit

    The first step toward getting a full driver’s license in New Mexico is getting your learner’s permit.

    Before you’re eligible to apply, you must:

    • Be at least 15 years old.

    AND

    Once the above requirements are met, schedule an appointment with the NM Motor Vehicle Division, and:

    • Bring:
    • Pass the:
      • Vision test.
      • Written driving test (if not completed in your Driver’s Ed course).
    • Pay the learner’s permit fee.

    Your parent or guardian will also have to be with you to sign paperwork on your behalf.

    Once the paperwork is filed, tests passed, and fee paid, you’ll be issued your learner’s permit.

    NM Learner’s Permit Restrictions

    As part of the GDL, each step of the process comes with certain restrictions.

    While driving on your learner’s permit in New Mexico, you will ONLY be able to drive when accompanied by:

    • A parent or guardian.
    • Your driving education instructor.
    • A fully-licensed passenger who’s at least 21 years old.

    Provisional Driver’s License

    The next step is earning your provisional license.

    In order to do so, you’ll need to:

    • Be at least 15 ½ years old.
    • Practice on your learner’s permit for at least 6 months.
    • Log at least 50 hours of driving practice.
      • At least 10 hours must be at night.

    Once those requirements have been met, it’s time to take your driving test. Schedule an appointment with the Motor Vehicle Division and bring:

    • Your valid learner’s permit.
    • The appropriate identifying documents.
    • Your driving practice log.
    • The appropriate fee.

    The car you test in will also need current:

    • Liability insurance.
    • Registration.
    • License plates.

    After passing the test and paying the fee, you’ll be issued your provisional license.

    Provisional License Restrictions

    If you’re under 18 and driving on your provisional license, you’ll be able to drive by yourself EXCEPT between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m., unless you are:

    • Accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or fully-licensed passenger who’s at least 21 years old.
    • Driving because of a medical emergency.
    • Driving to or from a school or religious event.
    • Driving to or home from work.

    Full Driver’s License

    To go from your provisional license to your full license in New Mexico, you must:

    • Practice on your provisional license for at least 12 months.
    • Have no traffic violation convictions within 90 days of applying.
    • Have no pending traffic violations at the time of applying.
    • Have not plead guilty for any drug or alcohol offenses during the provisional practice period.

    To take the final step, schedule an appointment with the MVD and bring:

    The state will then issue your license. Congratulations!

    Driver’s License (Age 18+)

    If you’re applying for a first-time driver’s license in Indiana and you’re 18 or older, the process is a bit more streamlined.

    Written Exam

    To start, you’ll have to earn your New Mexico learner’s permit. Visit your closest participating MVD office and bring:

    At this appointment, you’ll also need to successfully pass:

    • A vision test.
    • The written knowledge exam.

    After passing the exam and paying the fee, you’ll be issued your permit. During this time, you’ll be restricted to driving with a fully-licensed passenger who’s at least 21 years old.

    Road Skills Exam

    To earn your full license, you’ll have to take the road skills exam. There’s no required waiting period to take this test in New Mexico.

    When you feel ready, schedule an appointment with the MVD and bring:

    Note that you’ll have to show up to this appointment accompanied by a fully-licensed passenger who is either at least 21 years old.

    The vehicle you test in will also need current and valid:

    • Liability insurance.
    • Registration.
    • License plates.

    After successfully passing the test and paying the fee, you’ll be issued your full driver’s license. Congratulations!

    Transferring an Out-of-State License

    Welcome to New Mexico!

    If you’re new to the state, you’ll have to transfer your out-of-state license within 60 days of relocating.

    To do so, visit your closest participating Motor Vehicle Division office and bring:

    • Your current, valid license.
    • Proof of your:
      • Identity.
      • New Mexico address.
      • Social Security number.
    • The appropriate fee.

    You’ll also need to pass a vision exam at this appointment.

    If you’re a new resident to the state and you’re between ages 18-24, you will have to pass an at-home None for the Road DUI program before you can apply to change your license.

    If your previous license has been expired for more than 1 year, you will also have to take the New Mexico written and driving exams.

    Once all of the above credentials have been met, you’ll be issued your new New Mexico license!

    New Mexico MVD Motorcycle Permit & License Info

    To legally drive a motorcycle in New Mexico, you’ll have to add an endorsement to your regular driver’s license.

    You must be at least 15 years old in order to apply.

    Once the age requirement is met, there are two ways to complete the process. You can either:

    If you’re under 18, you can still apply through the DMV, but you are also required to take the course.

    Basic Rider Course

    This is the easiest way to earn your NM motorcycle license. As long as you pass the course, you’ll be given paperwork that waive any state DMV testing.

    To turn your effort into an endorsement, simply arrive at the DMV with:

    • The course completion certificate.
    • Your current, valid NM driver’s license.
    • The motorcycle license fee.

    If you don’t have a NM driver’s license, you will also have to bring acceptable proof of your:

    • Identity.
    • New Mexico residence.
    • Social Security number.

    Once the paperwork is filed and fees are paid, you’ll be issued your motorcycle license.

    NM Motorcycle Permit

    If you choose to test through the state, you’ll have to earn your motorcycle permit first. This involves passing a:

    • Vision test.
    • Written motorcycle exam.

    In order to do so, schedule an appointment with the closest participating DMV office and bring:

    • Your current, valid NM license.
    • The appropriate motorcycle permit fee.
    • A parent or legal guardian to sign paperwork on your behalf, if you’re younger than 18.

    If you don’t have a NM driver’s license, you will also have to bring acceptable proof of your:

    • Identity.
    • New Mexico residence.
    • Social Security number.

    After the paperwork is filed and fees are paid, you’ll be issued your motorcycle permit.

    NM Motorcycle Permit Restrictions

    While practicing on your permit, you’ll have a few restrictions, including NO driving:

    • Between sunset and sunrise.
    • While carrying any passengers.

    New Mexico Motorcycle License

    To turn your motorcycle permit into an endorsement, you’ll need to pass the on-road skills exam.

    Schedule another appointment with the DMV (note, not all offices offer this service) and bring:

    • Your current, valid motorcycle permit.
    • The motorcycle license fee.
    • Proof of a basic rider course completion, if you’re under 18.
    • A parent or legal guardian to sign paperwork on your behalf, if you’re younger than 18.

    If you don’t have a NM driver’s license, you will also have to bring acceptable proof of your:

    • Identity.
    • New Mexico residence.
    • Social Security number.

    Once the above is complete and the test is passed, you’ll be issued your motorcycle license. Congratulations!

    New Mexico CDL Requirements

    A commercial driver’s license (CDL) will allow you to drive much larger vehicles than the average car. Before you can start the process, you must:

    • Be at least 18 years old.
    • Already have a valid New Mexico license.
    • Be cleared by a federally-approved doctor or receive a medical waiver.

    Once the above is complete, you can begin the CDL process.

    Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

    The first step toward getting your commercial driver’s license is getting your commercial learner’s permit (CLP).

    The process involves passing your written knowledge exam. To take it, visit your closest MVD office and bring:

    • Your current, valid NM driver’s license.
    • A completed medical self-certification form/waiver.
    • Proof of your:
      • Legal presence in the United States.
      • Identity.
      • New Mexico residency.
    • The CLP fee.

    After the paperwork is filed, the fee paid and the test passed, you’ll be issued your CLP. You must hold this credential for at least 14 days before you can take the road test.

    While practicing on your permit, you are also required to drive with a CDL-holder who’s at least 21 years old.

    Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

    To turn your CLP into a CDL, you’ll have to pass the driving skills exam. This requires scheduling an appointment with a specific MVD CDL field office.

    Make sure to bring with you:

    • Your current, valid CLP.
    • Your current, valid driver’s license.

    You must arrive to this appointment with a CDL-holding passenger who’s at least 21 years old. The vehicle you test in must also have current and valid:

    • Insurance.
    • Registration.
    • License plates.

    After passing the test and paying the fee, you’ll need to return to a regular MVD office to turn in your test results and pay the fine. Once everything has been logged in the system, you’ll be issued your CDL.

    New Mexico MVD Handbooks

    New Mexico CDL Handbook

    New Mexico CDL Handbook

    New Mexico CDL Handbook
    New Mexico Driver's License Handbook

    New Mexico Driver's License Handbook

    New Mexico Driver's License Handbook
    New Mexico Motorcycle Handbook

    New Mexico Motorcycle Handbook

    New Mexico Motorcycle Handbook