DMV New Mexico · Facts and practice test
New Mexico DMV: age, fees, test facts
Sourced procedural facts for New Mexico DMV, plus a free 72-question practice test with real sign images and audio.
Quick facts
Minimum permit age
15 years old
Supervised driving before road test
50 hours total, including at least 10 hours at night, certified in writing by a parent or guardian
Documents to bring
Proof of ID number, identity, and NM residency; proof of driver education enrollment/completion; proof of financial responsibility; vision and written test completion (or driver ed certificate)
Find an office / appointment
Find nearest MVD field office via official locator at secure.mvd.newmexico.gov/mvd/mvd-maps-locations.html; book appointments at mvd.newmexico.gov or call 1-888-683-4636. Appointments recommended.
REAL ID status
New Mexico is REAL ID compliant (gold star credential since Nov 14, 2016). Federal enforcement deadline was May 7, 2025; standard (non-compliant) license still available for state ID/driving.
Motorcycle license
Age 13 for M license with Y/Z endorsement (under 100cc) after MSF Basic Rider Course; age 15 for W/Y/Z endorsements (100cc+). Written test always required; road test waived if MSF course completed.
Commercial license (CDL)
Intrastate CDL minimum age 18; interstate driving, hazmat, or passenger transport require 21 (hazmat also requires background check).
Official source: Apply for a Learner's Permit | Motor Vehicle Division NM
Things like renewing registration, REAL ID, or a change of address are outside what this page covers -- go straight to the official New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division site.
Getting a license in New Mexico
Getting your first permit
In New Mexico, the minimum permit age is 15 years old. When you apply for a permit or license, bring: proof of ID number, identity, and NM residency; proof of driver education enrollment/completion; proof of financial responsibility; vision and written test completion (or driver ed certificate). Find nearest MVD field office via official locator at secure.mvd.newmexico.gov/mvd/mvd-maps-locations.html; book appointments at mvd.newmexico.gov or call 1-888-683-4636. Appointments recommended.
Fees, retakes, and practice hours
Before the road test, the state requires 50 hours total, including at least 10 hours at night, certified in writing by a parent or guardian.
REAL ID, motorcycle, and CDL
New Mexico is REAL ID compliant (gold star credential since Nov 14, 2016). Federal enforcement deadline was May 7, 2025; standard (non-compliant) license still available for state ID/driving. For a motorcycle license: age 13 for M license with Y/Z endorsement (under 100cc) after MSF Basic Rider Course; age 15 for W/Y/Z endorsements (100cc+). Written test always required; road test waived if MSF course completed. For a commercial license (CDL): intrastate CDL minimum age 18; interstate driving, hazmat, or passenger transport require 21 (hazmat also requires background check).
The New Mexico bank has 72 questions across 9 topics
Passed? Don't forget insurance
New drivers in the household need to be added to the policy, and shopping several carriers is the best way to keep the cost down, wherever you live.