What are the requirements to get a New Mexico commercial driver license (CDL)?
What documents do I need to take to the MVD Vehicle Division Field Office to get a New Mexico CDL?
What is the fee for a commercial driver's license?
Can a driver transfer a commercial driver license permit from another state?
Can a Hazmat background check be transferred from another state to New Mexico?
My CDL is expired. Do I need to take the tests again?
Is the CDL manual available online?
What tests do I need to take for the class of CDL I will be obtaining?
What do I need to bring to verify my name change to get my license?
What are Private MVD Offices?
Medical
If my Medical Examiner’s Certificate is damaged, lost or becomes unreadable, can I use a copy or do I have to get an original?
What is a DOT physical and why is it important?
If my diabetes is controlled with oral medication, can I be certified for 2 years?
If my hypertension is controlled with medication, can I be certified for 2 years?
If I have heart disease, can I be certified for 2 years?
Am I able to receive a Medical Waiver (medical exemption) if I have epilepsy?
What is a Medical Waiver (medical exemption)?
What are the requirements to get a New Mexico commercial driver license (CDL)?
A non- commercial (regular, Class D) New Mexico driver license or a valid out- of- state CDL is required to get a New Mexico commercial driver license (CDL).
At the MVD office you must:
- Pass the written test(s) pertaining to the class of CDL and any endorsements applied for;
- Get a CDL learner’s permit; and
- Pass a skills test administered by an approved CDL examiner
After receiving your skills test scores, bring the following to the MVD:
- All required documents, as detailed below
- Driver license
- Learner’s permit
- Sealed envelope with skills test scores
Written tests are not required to exchange a valid out- of- state CDL for a New Mexico CDL with the same class and endorsements.
Any driver needing a hazardous materials (Hazmat) endorsement must take a written test, be fingerprinted and get a background check.
Note: Not all MVD Field Offices issue CDLs. To identify an office in your area that can handle your complete CDL application process, check the CDLTest and License Field Offices.
What documents do I need to take to the MVD Vehicle Division Field Office to get a New Mexico CDL?
You will need to take the originals of all these required documents:
- out-of-state CDL or New Mexico driver license
- Social Security Card
- USDOT Commercial Driver Medical Form, Federal Medical Waiver Card, or proof of employment by a government entity
- proof of identity (including date of birth)
- proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence status in the United States
- two (2) proofs of New Mexico residency
Additional information clarifying each of these required documents is provided below.
USDOT Commercial Driver Medical Form
Either of the following may be accepted:
USDOT or NM Commercial Driver Medical Examination Certification (Long) Form. Other states’ Commercial Driver Medical Examination Certification Forms may be acceptable, however, these must be approved by the New Mexico CDL Unit.
If you are medically covered by a government entity, (city, county, state or federal), you can show your government- issued photo ID card, or bring in a Vehicle Certification Form signed by your employer or your supervisor.
Proof of identity, and U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence in the United States
Documents for Identity/ U.S. Citizenship:
An original birth certificate bearing an Official Seal issued by a State, County, Municipal Authority, or outlying possession of the United States (Hospital Registrations, Birth Records, or Birth Notifications will not be accepted).
- An original certified copy of a birth certificate with an Official Seal by a State, County, Municipal Authority, or outlying possession of the United States (copy of a certified copy will not be accepted).
- Valid United States Passport
- Certification of Birth Abroad issued by the United States Department of State (Form FS- 545 or DS- 1350)
- Certificate of Naturalization (Form N550 or N570 or N578)
- Certificate of U. S. Citizenship (Form N560 or N561)
Documents for Lawful Permanent Residence Status in the United States:
- Permanent Resident Alien Card – I- 551
- Foreign passport stamped by the U.S. Government indicating that the holder has been "Processed for I- 551"
- Temporary I – 551 Stamp in Foreign Passport
- Temporary I –551 Stamp on Form I- 94, Arrival /Departure Record, with photograph of the bearer
- Permanent resident Re- entry Permit (Form I- 327)
- Two (2) documents to prove New Mexico residency
To be acceptable as proof of residency a document must show a New Mexico physical residence address. A New Mexico P.O. Box address is not acceptable as evidence of NM residency.
All documents must be original or a certified copy. MVD will also accept copies that are sent directly from the agency that issues or holds the documentation. All documentation must be current. Documents that applicants receive on a monthly basis, such as insurance and utility bills and bank statements, must be dated no more than three months prior to the date of application for a CDL.
What is the fee for a commercial driver's license?
The fee is $18.00 for a four- year license or $34.00 for an eight- year license. Drivers who are 75 years old or older must renew their licenses yearly, but they are not charged renewal fees.
State law now requires a DWI records check on all drivers moving to New Mexico from out- of- state. To pay for the records check, those drivers are charged an additional one- time $15.00 fee, increasing their total to $33.00 for a four- year license or $49.00 for an eight- year license.
Driver’s with the hazardous materials (Hazmat) endorsement cannot get an eight- year license.
The additional cost for the background check and fingerprinting required to obtain a Hazmat endorsement is $127.00.
Can a driver transfer a commercial driver license permit from another state?
Learner’s permits are not transferable from state- to- state. You must obtain a CDL license from the state you received your learner’s permit, or start the CDL application process over again in this state.
Can a Hazmat background check be transferred from another state to New Mexico?
No, a Hazmat background check cannot be transferred from another state to New Mexico because New Mexico cannot verify when the out- of- state background and fingerprinting was performed.
My CDL is expired. Do I need to take the tests again?
If you have a New Mexico CDL and it has been expired for less than a year, you do not need to retest. If your New Mexico CDL has been expired for more than a year, you will need to retest on both the knowledge and skills tests.
If you have an out- of- state CDL, regardless of expiration date, you must retest to get your New Mexico CDL.
Is the CDL manual available online?
Yes, please read the New Mexico specific addendum available here. (Download PDF)
The CDL Manual is available here. (Download PDF)
What tests do I need to take for the class of CDL I will be obtaining?
The written tests required for each class of CDL are as follows:
- Class A license- general knowledge, airbrakes and combination
- Class B license- general knowledge and airbrakes
- Class C license- general knowledge.(The class C license is only valid with and H or P endorsement)
- For the endorsements N (tanker) and T (doubles) you will need to take the written test.
- For endorsements P (passenger) and S (school bus) you will need to take the written test and a separate road test in a passenger vehicle.
- For the endorsement H you will need to take a written test and go through the background check and fingerprinting.
What do I need to bring to verify my name change to get my license?
Any of the following documents may be accepted to verify a customer's name change on a New Mexico driver license or identification card:
- marriage license
- court order
- divorce decree
- birth certificate (for name corrections, only)
What are Private MVD Offices?
Private MVD Offices have a contract with the State MVD to provide MVD services to the public. Private MVD Offices charge administrative fees, in addition to any MVD fees that apply to your transactions.
MEDICAL
If my Medical Examiner’s Certificate is damaged, lost or becomes unreadable, can I use a copy or do I have to get an original?
The New Mexico MVD only accepts an original Medical Examination Certification from the driver. The MVD will accept either a faxed copy of the Medical Examination Certification Form from the Medical Examiner/Physician that performed your examination or a faxed copy from your employer.
What is a DOT physical and why is it important?
A DOT physical is a medical examination of a commercial driver performed by a licensed medical examiner. It ensures that a person is medically qualified to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.
If my diabetes is controlled with oral medication, can I be certified for 2 years?
No, per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recommendations, New Mexico certifies only one year at time.
If my hypertension is controlled with medication, can I be certified for 2 years?
No, per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recommendations, New Mexico certifies only one year at time.
If I have heart disease, can I be certified for 2 years?
No, per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recommendations, New Mexico certifies only one year at time.
Am I able to receive a Medical Waiver (medical exemption) if I have epilepsy?
No.The FMCSA and the State of New Mexico do not issue waivers for drivers with epilepsy, a history of epilepsy, or who are taking anti- seizure medication. You can receive a New Mexico CDL if you are off anti- seizure medication and have been seizure- free for 10 years. If you had a single unprovoked seizure, you may be qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce if you are seizure- free and have been off anti- seizure medication for a 5- year period or more.
What is a Medical Waiver (medical exemption)?
The FMCSA grants medical exemption waivers to commercial motor vehicle drivers who have diabetes controlled with Insulin and to commercial motor vehicle drivers with vision of less than 20/40. To get applications for these waivers please Click Here.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLES FAQs | Back to top
Frequently Asked Questions
Revised October 2009
How do I register a commercial vehicle in New Mexico?
What is a Warrant?
What is Authority?
What is a 2290?
What am I required to have when I cross the State of New Mexico?
When I purchase a commercial vehicle from a dealer, can I use the dealer temporary or drive away permit to haul a load?
Why are you suspending my weight distance E- permits?
What do I do if I need to change the name on my account?
What is your address?
What do I do if I lose my cab card or license plate?
How do I cancel my account(s) with the State of New Mexico?
What do I do if I lose my IFTA decals or IFTA License?
I haven’t titled my truck yet. Can I get a temporary title?
How can I get an oversize/overweight permit?
Can I buy my way through at the Port of Entry? How much is it?
What is a Mill Rate?
I sold my truck and bought a new one. Can I transfer my cab cards?
If I have a Farm Plate, can I go across state lines?
I just bought a truck. What is the heaviest I can carry?
I’m carrying over 26,000 lbs. and Farm Plated. Why do I need a Tax Identification card if I don’t travel on New Mexico roads?
I’m leasing a truck from Kansas. Can I register IRP in New Mexico?
What is the ICC?
What is an Exempt Motor Carrier?
Who has to get a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity?
How do I get a US Department of Transportation (DOT) number?
When are escorts required?
Can you fax me a New Mexico Tax Identification application?
How do I register a commercial vehicle in New Mexico?
A. Based Interstate Carriers
- Carriers that cross state lines - Vehicle must be titled in New Mexico. This can be done at any MVD Field Office.
- Carrier must submit the receipted IRS Form 2290 with appropriate weight category code. This applies only to vehicles 55,000 lbs. and over.
- Carrier must complete the New Mexico Apportioned Registration Application Schedule A & B Form MVD 11026 | Download PDF
- Carrier must complete and sign the New Mexico International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA)
License application and the New Mexico IFTA Renewal Coupon and Decal Request.
- Carriers will be required to file a quarterly IFTA fuel tax report. link to: MVD- 11262 IFTA Quarterly Tax Return Instruction | Download PDF MVD- 11263 IFTA Quarterly Tax Return | Download PDF
- Carrier must register online for the New Mexico Weight Distance Tax E- Permit
- If you provide transportation of persons or property for hire, from point- to- point in the state of New Mexico, you are required to obtain authority from the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC). PRC Transportation Division information is available here or call the PRC at 505- 827- 4519 or 1- 888- 427- 5772.
- A carrier must apply for a US Department of Transportation (DOT) number from the New Mexico Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) office in Albuquerque. An application can be obtained by calling the NM FMCSA office at 505- 346- 7858.
- Carriers are required to file a quarterly New Mexico weight - distance tax report.
B. New Mexico Intrastate Carriers - Carriers that travel only in New Mexico
- Vehicle must be titled in New Mexico. This can be done at any MVD Field Office.
- Carriers must submit a receipted IRS form 2290 with appropriate weight category code. This applies only to vehicles 55,000 lbs. and over.
- Carrier must register online for the New Mexico Weight Distance Tax E- Permit
- If you provide transportation of persons or property for hire, from point- to- point in the state of New Mexico, you are required to obtain authority from the NMPRC. PRC Transportation Division information is available here or call the PRC at 505- 827- 4519 or 1- 888- 427- 5772.
- Carriers are required to file a quarterly New Mexico weight- distance tax report.
What is a Warrant?
Authority issued by the State of New Mexico Public Regulations Commission to allow for- hire carriers to haul property from point to point in the state of New Mexico. The following are required to have a Warrant: (1) Escort Services, (2) General Commodities, (3) Wrecker Services, (4) Hazardous Materials, (5) Cadavers, (6) Charter Bus Services and (7) Non- Profit Van Pools.
What is Authority?
Permission for companies that operate as for- hire carriers (for a fee or other compensation) that transport commerce, or arrange for their transport, within the borders of New Mexico.
What is a 2290?
IRS Form 2290 is a Heavy Vehicle Use Tax imposed by the Federal Government on any vehicle 55,000 lbs. and over. This tax should be paid at a local IRS office to expedite your registration process.
What am I required to have when I cross the State of New Mexico?
Out- of- state carriers are required to have in their possession:
- Current IRP registration from their base state listing New Mexico or a valid trip permit from the Port of Entry
- IFTA license and decals (a decal on the drivers side and one on the passenger side)
- Single State Registration (if hauling- for- hire)
- US DOT number
- New Mexico Tax Identification Permit
When I purchase a commercial vehicle from a dealer, can I use the dealer temporary or drive away permit to haul a load?
No, that is not permitted
Why are you suspending my weight- distance tax E- permits?
If a quarterly weight distance tax report has not been submitted, the system will not allow the weight- distance E- permit to be processed.
What do I do if I need to change the name on my account?
Submit a written request to the Commercial Vehicle Bureau of MVD with the carrier account number listing the OLD name and the NEW name. If the carrier wants new cab cards printed for IRP, submit $3.50 per IRP Cab Card and $2.00 for each Tax ID Permit. The carrier must go to a MVD Field Office to correct the name on the title and submit a copy of the new title.
What is your address?
MVD Commercial Vehicle Bureau; 2544 Camino Edward Ortiz, Suite C; Santa Fe, NM 87507
What do I do if I lose my cab card or license plate?
- For a lost IRP Registration cab card and sticker: Submit a written request with the account number, unit number, plus a check for $3.50.
- For a lost IRP plate (IR E0000, IR 0000 or IR 00000): Submit a written request with the account number, unit number, and a check for $18.50 ($15.00 for the plate and $3.50 for the cab card and sticker).
- For a lost New Mexico Base Plate (WD 00000): The local MVD field office will issue a plate for a fee of $15.00 and a duplicate Certificate of Vehicle Registration for $3.50.
- For a lost New Mexico Farm Truck Plate (WDFT 0001): The local MVD field office will issue a plate for a fee of $15.00 and a duplicate Certificate of Vehicle Registration for $3.50.
- For a lost Permanent New Mexico Freight Trailer Plate (0001 FTA): The local MVD field office will issue a plate for a fee of $15.00.
How do I cancel my account(s) with the State of New Mexico?
- New Mexico Tax Identification permit account: Holders are required to submit a letter with the carrier account number (MTD/TAX account number). All tax identification permits for the registration year must be returned to the Commercial Vehicle Bureau. All tax reports and liabilities must be filed and paid.
- IRP account: Holders are required to submit a letter with the carrier account number (MTD/TAX account number). All registration cab cards and license plates for the registration year must be returned to the MVD Commercial Vehicle Bureau. All tax reports and liabilities must be filed and paid.
- IFTA account: Holders are required to submit a letter with the carrier account number (MTD/TAX account number). The license and all decals must be returned to the Commercial Vehicle Bureau. All tax reports and liabilities must be filed and paid.
- WD Base Plates: Holders are required to submit a letter with the carrier account number (MTD/TAX account number). The Certificate of Vehicle registration and license plate(s) must be returned to the MVD Commercial Vehicle Bureau. All tax reports and liabilities must be filed and paid.
You can fax any of the above requests to the MVD Commercial Vehicle Bureau at: 505-476-1571.
What do I do if I lose my IFTA decals or IFTA License?
- Lost IFTA License: Submit a written request with the carrier account number.
- Lost IFTA Decals: Submit a written request with the carrier account number and a check for $3.50.
I haven’t titled my truck yet. Can I get a temporary title?
No, temporary titles are not issued until the vehicle is titled and the MVD Commercial Vehicle Bureau receives the Interstate application.
How do I get an oversize/overweight permit?
The oversize/ overweight permits are issued by the Department Of Public Safety.
Can I buy my way through at the Port of Entry? How much is it?
Yes, if a carrier does not have the IRP Registration Cab Card listing New Mexico, or have a New Mexico Tax Identification Permit, the carrier is required to pay the following:
- 0 lbs. - 26,000 lbs. - seven cents per mile
- 26,001 lbs. - 54,000 lbs. - 12 cents per mile
- 54,001 lbs. - 72,000 lbs. - 15 cents per mile
- Over 72,000lbs. - 16 cents per mile
If a carrier does not have an IFTA License or decals, the carrier will pay additional fees of five cents per mile (computed on a consumption basis), and $5.00 for a forty- eight (48) hour fuel permit that is valid for one (1) trip.
What is a Mill Rate?
Mill rate is the cents- per- mile paid for the weight distance tax. The rate depends on the weight of the vehicle, and whether the vehicle is used for one- way hauling or two- way hauling (loaded both ways). Mill rates are listed on your quarterly tax report.
I sold my truck and bought a new one. Can I transfer my cab cards?
No, you may submit a New Mexico Apportioned Registration Application Schedule A & B specifying an even- exchange. Some states allow even- exchange credit for unused periods, however you will get new plates and credentials for your new vehicle. Form MVD 11026 | Download PDF
Note: The carrier must order a new set of IFTA decals at $3.50, but the IFTA License can be used for the new vehicle.
If I have a Farm Plate, can I go across state lines?
Possibly, some IRP jurisdictions allow special plated vehicles to travel in their jurisdictions without paying registration fees. However, farm carriers must have a New Mexico Tax Identification Permit and an IFTA license and decals when traveling across state lines.
I just bought a truck. What is the heaviest I can carry?
Refer to the weight rating indicated on your vehicle driver side door.
I’m carrying over 26,000 lbs. and Farm Plated. Why do I need a Tax Identification card if I don’t travel on New Mexico roads?
You don’t need to register the farm truck as long as it never leaves the farm. However if you go to the local gas station you are traveling on taxable roads and must pay a Weight Distance tax. If you leave the farm, you are required by law to have in your possession a New Mexico Certificate of Registration, a Tax Identification card and pay the quarterly Weight Distance tax.
I’m leasing a truck from Kansas. Can I register IRP in New Mexico?
No, not if you leasing to purchase the vehicle. If a company based in Kansas is leasing to your company and you are adding that vehicle to your IRP account, you are allowed to register the vehicle without titling.
What is the ICC?
The Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) was phased out. Currently, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issues operating authority for common or contract carriers that haul for hire. You can find more information on FMCSA Registration and Licensing by clicking here.
What is an Exempt Motor Carrier?
Exempt motor carriers are carriers hauling farm and agricultural produce. Exempt products are raw materials that have not been processed and livestock. Intrastate exempt motor carriers must be registered for the Intrastate Warrant from the NM Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC). However, interstate exempt motor carriers are no longer regulated by the NMPRC and are not required to be registered.
Who has to get a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity?
For- hire intrastate motor carriers of passengers and household goods must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience & Necessity from the NM Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC). Such motor carriers includes the following:
- Shuttle services
- Taxi Services
- Limousines
- Bingo and Casino Bus or Van Services
- Tour and Sightseeing Services
- Ambulance Services
Intrastate motor carriers of passengers and household goods must submit an application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to the NMPRC. They must appear before the Commission at a formal hearing before they are granted the Certificate and must supply a tariff listing their charges for services.
How do I get a US Department of Transportation (DOT) number?
Carriers can call the New Mexico FMCSA Office in Albuquerque at 505- 346- 7858 to get an application for a US DOT number.
When are escorts required?
- An escort is required for the movement of all widths exceeding 14 feet, and may be required for widths of less than 14 feet depending on the route.
- An escort is required for the movement of all loads that exceed 90 feet in length.
- Front and rear escorts are required on 18- foot wide loads that are being transported on two- lane highways.
- Police escorts are required on all loads that are 20 feet or more in width.
- Front and rear escorts are required for loads that exceed 110 feet in length.
NOTE: An escort may be required for any load that exceeds 8 feet- 6 inches in width if such a load is deemed a hazard.
Can you fax me a New Mexico Tax Identification application?
Yes, if you do not reach us at 505- 827- 0392, leave your voicemail request and fax number, and MVD Commercial Vehicle Bureau staff will fax you an application.
Still have questions?
Email NMCDL.HelpDesk@state.nm.us