USA New Mexico Driver License

New Mexico Driver’s License: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Need a New Mexico Driver’s License? Whether you’re a new driver, a recent resident, or need to renew your license, this complete 2025 guide will help you through the process with the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).

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How to Get a New Mexico Driver’s License

Step 1: Choose the License Type
Most applicants need a Class D license, which allows you to operate a standard passenger vehicle. Other license types include:

• Class M for motorcycles
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Provisional or learner’s permits for new and teen drivers

Step 2: Gather Required Documents
New Mexico offers both REAL ID and Standard Driver’s Licenses. Documents vary depending on which one you choose.

For a REAL ID License, bring:

• One proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport or birth certificate)
• Proof of Social Security number (e.g., SS card, W-2)
• Two proofs of New Mexico residency (e.g., utility bill, lease)

For a Standard License, bring:

• Two proofs of identity and age
• Proof of New Mexico residency
• No SSN required, but other ID requirements apply

Step 3: Take Required Tests
If this is your first license:

• Pass a vision exam
• Pass the written knowledge test
• Pass a road skills test (by appointment)

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Teen Drivers: Graduated Licensing System

New Mexico has a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program for applicants under 18:

1. Instructional Permit (15+) — Pass vision and written test. Drive only with a licensed adult.
2. Provisional License (after 6 months with permit, 50 supervised hours) — Drive unsupervised with some restrictions.
3. Full License (after 1 year with provisional license and clean record)

A driver’s education course is required for all teen drivers under 18.

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New Residents Transferring a License to New Mexico

New residents must transfer their out-of-state license within 30 days of establishing residency.

What to bring:

• Valid out-of-state license
• Proof of identity, legal presence, and NM residency
• Proof of Social Security number (for REAL ID)
• Vision test required
• Written and road tests usually waived for valid licenses

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Renewing a New Mexico Driver’s License

You can renew your license:

• Online at MVD.NewMexico.gov (if eligible)
• In person at an MVD field office
• By mail (limited eligibility)

License validity:

• REAL ID licenses: 4 or 8 years
• Standard licenses: 1 to 4 years (based on eligibility)

You must renew in person if:

• You’re upgrading to REAL ID
• Your photo or info is outdated
• You need to retake vision or written tests

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New Mexico REAL ID License

Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or passport will be required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings.

To upgrade:

• Visit an MVD office in person
• Provide documents proving identity, Social Security number, and New Mexico residency
• Look for the gold star on your license for REAL ID compliance

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New Mexico Driver’s License Fees (2025)

Service	Fee (Approx.)
Standard or REAL ID License (4 years)	$18.00
Standard or REAL ID License (8 years)	$34.00
Learner’s or Provisional Permit	$10.00
Duplicate or Replacement License	$18.00
CDL and Motorcycle License	Varies

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Required Documents Checklist

• U.S. passport or certified birth certificate
• Social Security card or W-2 (REAL ID)
• Two documents showing New Mexico residency
• Completed driver’s license application
• Current license (if transferring or renewing)

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MVD Services Offered

• New driver’s license and permit issuance
• REAL ID and standard license options
• Out-of-state license transfers
• Online renewals and scheduling
• License replacements and duplicates
• Motorcycle and CDL licensing
• Vision, written, and road testing

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For official forms, appointments, and up-to-date information, visit the New Mexico MVD website.