How to get a New Mexico Driver's License
Find out how to get a new NM driver's license, replace your out-of-state license and requirements for international drivers with this New Mexico DMV guide.
The Rules
Under NM DMV guidelines, you must be 15 years and 6 months of age to obtain a New Mexico a provisional driver's license. An unrestricted license is issued 12 months later.
All applicants need to be familiar with the New Mexico Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
First Time Drivers
If this is your first driver's license and you are under 18 years of age, you will need to apply for a New Mexico learners permit which is part of the graduated licensing program.
Once you receive a valid learners permit, you will then need to pass a road skills test in addition to vision and hearing tests to receive an NM drivers license.
Applicants under 21 must have held a learners permit for 6 months before taking the road skills test.
New NM Residents
New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain a New Mexico driver's license upon establishing a permanent residence in CO. When heading to the DMV, be sure to bring the license from your former state as you will be required to surrender it in order to obtain the new license.
If your out-of-state driver's license has expired, you may be required to apply for a STATE learners permit and pass all required testing to receive a driver's license.
International Drivers
After becoming a resident of the NM, you'll be required to convert to a New Mexico license and pass the written exam and road skills test.
Paperwork
Before you head to the New Mexico DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, your Class D Driver's License will be valid for either four (4) or eight (8) years. Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.
Driver's License Resources
New Mexico Driver's Manual |
