Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements in New Mexico

1. What are the CDL requirements for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in New Mexico?


In order to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in New Mexico, applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving and 21 years old for interstate driving. The applicant must also have a valid New Mexico driver’s license. Additionally, applicants must pass a vision exam, a written exam, and a skills test. The skills test must include: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. Applicants must also provide evidence of medical certification and have a U.S. Social Security Card in their possession. In certain cases, they may need to provide additional documents such as proof of residence or proof of citizenship. Finally, applicants must pay the applicable fees and comply with any other applicable state or federal laws.

2. How many years of driving experience do I need to obtain a CDL in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, you must have at least one year of driving experience to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

3. What type of medical certification is required to get a CDL in New Mexico?


In order to obtain a CDL in New Mexico, drivers must pass a medical certification exam and obtain a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC). The MEC must be completed by a certified medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

4. Does New Mexico use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for CDLs?


Yes, New Mexico follows the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for CDLs.

5. Are there any special endorsements required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in New Mexico?


Yes, some special endorsements are required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in New Mexico. These endorsements include: HazMat, Tanker, Double/Triple, Vehicle Transport, and Passenger.

6. How often must CDL holders in New Mexico pass a physical examination to maintain their license?


CDL holders in New Mexico must pass a physical examination every two years in order to maintain their license.

7. What are the age requirements for obtaining a CDL in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, drivers must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a commercial driver’s license. Drivers younger than 21 years of age are limited to operating only in the state and may not cross state lines. Drivers over 21 years of age are eligible to operate anywhere in the contiguous United States.

8. Are there any skill exams required to get a CDL in New Mexico?


Yes, the State of New Mexico requires applicants for a CDL to take and pass a knowledge, skills, and road test.

9. Does New Mexico require drivers to complete any additional training before obtaining a CDL?


No, New Mexico does not require drivers to complete any additional training before obtaining a CDL. However, applicants must pass the state’s written and skills tests to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). If the driver-applicant is under the age of 21, they may be subject to additional requirements, such as completing a driver education course and/or obtaining a Learner’s Permit.

10. Can I obtain a CDL if I have previous convictions for traffic violations in New Mexico?


Yes, you may be able to obtain a CDL if you have previous convictions for traffic violations in New Mexico. The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) may require certain conditions to be met before granting a CDL, such as providing an updated driving record or taking a remedial driving course.

11. What hours are Commercial Drivers allowed to drive in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, commercial drivers are allowed to drive for up to 11 hours in a 14-hour period; they must also take at least 10 consecutive hours off between shifts. If drivers are involved in an accident or have to stop due to fatigue or illness, they must take additional rest time.

12. Are there any restrictions on CDL holders operating certain types of vehicles in New Mexico?


Yes, New Mexico has certain restrictions and requirements for CDL holders operating certain types of vehicles. Drivers must possess the correct class of license for the type of vehicle being operated. Additionally, certain vehicles may require additional endorsements as well as additional training. Drivers should check with the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division for specific details regarding the requirements for driving certain vehicles.

13. Do I need to take any additional classes to obtain a CDL in New Mexico?


Yes, in addition to the regular CDL requirements, you will need to take an additional training class, such as a Hazardous Materials Endorsement, Refreshment Air Brakes Endorsement, or Passenger Endorsement. You will also need to pass a road skills test and provide proof of current medical certification.

14. Does New Mexico require drivers to carry proof of insurance when operating commercial vehicles?


Yes, all drivers operating commercial vehicles in New Mexico are required to carry proof of insurance.

15. Is there an age limit for holding a Commercial Drivers License in New Mexico?


Yes, the minimum age for holding a Commercial Drivers License in New Mexico is 18 years old.

16. Are there any special requirements for drivers transporting hazardous materials with a Commercial Drivers License in New Mexico?


Yes. Drivers transporting hazardous materials in New Mexico must comply with New Mexico’s hazardous materials transportation regulations, which can be found in the New Mexico Administrative Code, Title 16: Motor Vehicles. Drivers must have a valid hazardous materials endorsement (HME) on their CDL, which can be obtained by taking a written knowledge test and passing a background check. Drivers must also comply with federal regulations, including the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMRs).

17. Do I need to take a drug test before obtaining a CDL in New Mexico?


No, drug tests are not required to obtain a CDL in New Mexico. However, employers may require drug testing during pre-employment screening.

18. Does New Mexico require drivers to carry special licenses or endorsements when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle?


No, New Mexico does not require drivers to carry special licenses or endorsements when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle.

19. How often must Commercial Drivers renew their license in New Mexico?


Commercial Drivers in New Mexico must renew their license every 5 years.

20. Are there any special restrictions on Commercial Drivers operating at night or during certain times of day in New Mexico?


Yes. In New Mexico, commercial drivers are subject to the federal Hours of Service regulations, which limit the hours they can drive in a given day and week. In addition, New Mexico has specific restrictions for commercial drivers operating at night in certain types of vehicles. For example, commercial drivers of buses, school buses, and vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,001 or more pounds are not allowed to drive between 12:00am and 5:00am.