How to get a New Mexico Driver's License
- New Mexico Driver's License Guidelines
- How to Prepare for the Written Exam
- Required ID and Paperwork
NM Driver's License Rules and Requirements
Find out the steps to get your drivers license, pass your DMV written test, replace your out-of-state license and the required paperwork to bring to the DMV office to get your driver's license.
Try Sample Test!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.
Get your NM Driver's Permit
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.
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 (instructional permit) which is part of the graduated licensing program.
Once you receive a valid instructional permit, you will then need to pass a road skills test and vision test to receive a NM provisional drivers license.
Applicants under 21 must have held a learners permit for 6 months, completed a state-approved driver education program and log 50 hours behind the wheel training, 10 at night, before taking the road skills test.
Prepare for the Written Knowledge Test
All new drivers are encouraged to study for this driver education exam so you don't miss the opportunity to get your learners permit as soon as you reach the approved age. Online practice tests are available that provide real sample questions from the DMV Exam - Take the New Mexico practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
New New Mexico Residents
New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain a New Mexico driver's license upon establishing a permanent residence in NM. When heading to the MVD, 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 license has expired by more than one year, you must take the written test.
If your out of state license has expired by more than five years, you must take the written and the road skills test.
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.
Required 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, you will receive your new:
- Restricted License (15 years - six months to 18 years of age) valid for 4 years.
- Full driver's license (21 and older) valid for up to 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.
