Find a licensing center
While some driver’s license services are available online, you may need to go to a New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division field office in person for some driver’s license services. You can look up the
New Mexico MVD office here.
Getting a license for the first time
First time getting your driver’s license? Here’s everything you need to know.
Ages 15 to 17
New Mexico has a three-stage
graduated license program for new drivers under age 18. Stage One is an instructional permit. Teens must be 15 years old. They go in-person with their parent or guardian to a MVD field office and bring with them:
- Proof of having completed or being enrolled in a state-approved driver’s education program
- A referral from the driver’s education program
- Appropriate documentation to prove identity and age and state residency
- $10
The teen and their parents fill out and sign the application. The teen must pass vision and knowledge tests. They must hold the instructional permit for at least six months before moving to Stage 2. They also must complete the driver education program and 50 hours of driving time with an adult 21 and older who has had their license for at least three years, maintain a clean driving record for at least 90 days before moving to stage 2, and not drink and drive. During the time they hold the instructional permit, the teen may only drive when accompanied by an adult 21 and older who has had their license for at least three years. Stage Two is a provisional license. After successfully completing Stage One, the teen and their parent or guardian go in person to apply for a provisional license. They bring with them:
- Proof of completing the driver education course
- A driving log that shows practice driving hours
- $18
The teen must pass a skills test. With a provisional license, the teen may not have more than one non-related teen in the car with them, unless accompanied by an adult 21 and older. With some exceptions, they also cannot operate a vehicle between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by an adult. The teen must hold the provisional license for at least a year before moving to Stage Three. Stage Three is a full driver’s license. To receive it, they and their parents must apply for the license. They must also have not had any violations within 90 days, have no pending violations, and have no drunk driving convictions. The cost is $18 or $34 depending upon the duration of the license.
Ages 18 to 24
Those between ages 18 and 24 who are applying for a driver’s license for the first time must complete a “None for the Road” training course offered through the University of New Mexico Continuing Education office. You’ll receive a
learner’s permit first, and, then when you pass the road test, you’ll receive a full driver’s license.
Ages 25 and older
- The details: If you’re at least 25 years old and ready to get behind the wheel, the process at the BMV is smooth and simple.
- What to bring: Pack up your ID and proof of residence documents, and $10.
- What you’ll need to do: When you arrive at the BMV, you’ll submit your application, and take a vision and knowledge test.
- You’ll need to practice supervised driving for at least six months, and then you can return for a road test.
- What comes next: If you pass the road test and pay the $18 or $34 fee, you’ll receive a full driver’s license.
Those 25 and older who have been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs will need to complete “None for the Road” or another approved DWI prevention program to receive their full driver’s license.
Renewing your license
In most cases, you can easily
renew your license online. If you want or need to visit a field office in-person, you can save time by
scheduling an appointment online. You’ll need a copy of your current driver’s license, your date of birth, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your last name.
Do you need a Real ID?
Do you have to get a Real ID? Nope. Will you want one? Probably. Starting
October 1, 2021, your standard driver’s license will no longer be accepted as proof of identification at airports. You’ll need a passport or a Real ID instead.
Replace a lost or stolen license
You may replace your license online. The process of replacing your license online is simple —
here’s everything you need to know.