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How to Get Your New Mexico Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with New Mexico MVD directly.

Under 18 (Graduated Licensing)

  1. Complete driver education, then apply for an instruction permit at 15

    An applicant under 18 must complete an approved driver education program first. Apply at an MVD office with proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency, and pass the 25-question knowledge test (72%, 18 correct) plus a vision test.

    • Proof of identity and Social Security number
    • Proof of New Mexico residency
    • Driver education completion certificate

  2. Drive only with a qualifying supervisor

    A licensed driver at least 21 years old who has held a license for at least 3 years must supervise all driving on the instruction permit.

  3. Log 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 at night

    Complete and log at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice, with at least 10 of those hours at night.

  4. Hold the permit at least 6 months

    Hold the instruction permit for at least 6 months before applying for a provisional license.

  5. Apply for a provisional license at 15 and a half

    Once you've turned 15 and a half and met the holding period and hour requirements, apply for a provisional license.

  6. Follow provisional license restrictions

    Drive only between 5 a.m. and midnight. Carry no more than one passenger under 21 who isn't immediate family. No cell phone use, even hands-free.

  7. Move to a full license after 12 months

    After holding the provisional license for 12 months, move to a full, unrestricted license.

18 and Older

  1. Apply for an instruction permit

    Apply at an MVD office; the graduated stages and their restrictions apply only to an applicant who starts before turning 18.

  2. Pass the knowledge test

    Pass the same 25-question knowledge test (72%, 18 correct) and a vision test.

    • Proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency

  3. Practice and pass the road test

    Practice driving under the terms of your instruction permit, then pass the road test to receive your license.

  4. Receive your full license

    Adult first-time applicants receive a standard, unrestricted license upon passing.

Notes

  • New Mexico's licensing agency is the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), part of the Taxation and Revenue Department — the state doesn't use a "DMV" name.
  • New Mexico's 72% permit-test passing score is unusually low compared to most states, which typically require 80% or higher.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process on the official New Mexico MVD website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23