Driver’s License for Non-Citizens in New Mexico

1. What are the requirements to obtain an instruction permit for driving in New Mexico?


In order to obtain an instruction permit for driving in New Mexico, applicants must be at least 15 years of age and have a valid form of identification. Applicants must also provide proof of liability insurance, pass a written test, and pass a vision test.

2. Can non-U.S. citizens obtain a driver’s license in New Mexico?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens are eligible to obtain a driver’s license in New Mexico. The requirements for obtaining a driver’s license vary depending on the individual’s immigration status. Non-U.S. citizens must present documentation to demonstrate their legal presence in the country, such as a valid passport or an immigration document from the Department of Homeland Security.

3. What documents are needed to apply for a provisional driver’s license in New Mexico?


In order to apply for a provisional driver’s license in New Mexico, you will need to bring the following documents:

• Proof of identification such as a birth certificate, valid passport, permanent resident card, or military ID.
• Proof of Social Security Number such as an original Social Security card or a 1099 tax form.
• Two proofs of New Mexico residency such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement.
• A completed application form from the Motor Vehicle Division.
• A valid Certificate of Completion from an approved driver’s education course.
• A signed affidavit from your parent or guardian if you are under 18 years old.
• Proof of financial responsibility such as car insurance.
• Payment for the applicable fees.

4. Is a Social Security Number required to obtain a driver’s license in New Mexico?


No, a Social Security Number is not required to obtain a driver’s license in New Mexico.

5. What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, the minimum age requirement to obtain a driver’s license is 15 years old.

6. Are there any restrictions on non-citizens obtaining commercial vehicle driver’s licenses in New Mexico?


Yes, there are restrictions on non-citizens obtaining commercial vehicle driver’s licenses in New Mexico. Non-citizens must provide proof of legal presence in the United States to obtain a commercial driver’s license. Proof of legal presence can include a valid green card, U.S. passport, or an approved I-94 form. Additionally, non-citizens must provide proof of identity and residency in New Mexico.

7. What are the restrictions for non-U.S. citizens driving with a foreign-issued driver’s license in New Mexico?


Non-U.S. citizens may drive with a valid foreign-issued driver’s license in New Mexico for up to 90 days, provided the license is in English or accompanied by a valid translation in English. After 90 days, they must apply for a New Mexico driver’s license. They must also carry proof of current immigration status while driving in the state.

8. What type of proof of identity is needed to get a driver’s license in New Mexico?


In order to get a driver’s license in New Mexico, you must present two forms of identification. These must include a primary identity document, such as a valid passport or birth certificate, and a secondary identity document, such as a social security card or state-issued ID. You must also provide proof of New Mexico residency, such as utility bills or bank statements.

9. How long do non-citizens need to be residents of New Mexico before being able to apply for a driver’s license?


Non-citizens must have resided in New Mexico for at least one year before they are eligible to apply for a driver’s license.

10. Are there any additional requirements for non-citizens seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license in New Mexico?


Yes, non-citizens seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license in New Mexico must provide proof of lawful presence in the United States (e.g., U.S. passport, birth certificate, permanent resident card, etc.).

11. Which type of tests are required to be taken by non-citizens to obtain a driver’s license in New Mexico?


Non-citizens in New Mexico must take a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a road skills test to obtain a driver’s license.

12. Do non-U.S. citizens need to provide proof of residency for obtaining a driver’s license in New Mexico?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens are required to provide proof of both identity and residency to obtain a driver’s license in New Mexico. This should include two documents that prove identity, such as a passport or birth certificate, and two documents that prove residency, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.

13. Is there an additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in New Mexico?


No, there is not an additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in New Mexico. All applicants must pay the same fee regardless of citizenship status.

14. Is it possible for non-U.S. citizens to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in New Mexico?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens are able to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in New Mexico. The process is managed by the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) of the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department. Applicants must provide a valid foreign driver’s license, proof of identity, and proof of New Mexico residence. The applicant must also pass a vision test, knowledge test, and a driving skills test.

15. What do non-citizens need to bring with them to the DMV when applying for a driver’s license in New Mexico?


Non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in New Mexico will need to present proof of identity, legal presence and residency. Examples of acceptable documents include a passport, visa, and green card. Other documents such as Social Security Cards or birth certificates may be required to prove identity and residency, depending on the specific situation.

16. How much does it cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in New Mexico?


A non-citizen can obtain a driver’s license in New Mexico for $18 plus applicable license and late fees.

17. Are there any special laws that apply to drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses while operating motor vehicles in New Mexico?


Yes, there are special laws related to drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses while operating motor vehicles in New Mexico. All non-U.S. citizens who are in the United States on a valid visa and who have a valid foreign driver’s license may drive in New Mexico for up to 90 days without needing to obtain a New Mexico driver’s license. After 90 days, the non-U.S. citizen must obtain a New Mexico driver’s license. The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division also recognizes driver’s licenses from certain countries that have agreements to recognize each other’s driver’s licenses, provided that the foreign license is valid and has been issued by an authorized entity.

18. Can non-citizens obtain an international driving permit while residing in New Mexico?


No. International Driving Permits are only issued to US citizens and foreign nationals who are legally present in the US.

19. Does New Mexico recognize foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes?


No, foreign driver’s licenses are not accepted as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes in New Mexico. Drivers must present a valid U.S. passport or other valid form of U.S. identification, such as a valid state driver’s license or ID card.

20. Are there any special requirements for renewing a non-citizen’s driver’s license in New Mexico?


Yes, non-citizens are required to provide proof of lawful presence in the United States when renewing their driver’s license in New Mexico. Acceptable documents include valid permanent resident cards, valid Employment Authorization Documents (EAD), or a valid unexpired foreign passport with I-94.