Hardship License and Restricted Driving in New Mexico

1. What is a Hardship License and how can I obtain one in New Mexico?


A Hardship License is a special type of restricted license that can be issued to those who have had their license suspended or revoked for certain offenses, such as DUI, DWI, or habitual traffic violations. It allows drivers to travel to and from work, school, medical appointments and other essential activities. In order to obtain a Hardship License in New Mexico, drivers must demonstrate that they need the license in order to maintain employment and they must pass a Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) written and driving test. Drivers must also provide proof of financial responsibility in the form of an SR-22 insurance form and a signed “Affidavit of Indigency” if they are unable to purchase insurance due to financial hardship.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for a Hardship License in New Mexico?


In order to be eligible for a Hardship License in New Mexico, a person must demonstrate that their license suspension or revocation is causing an extreme financial hardship. The applicant must provide proof of income and expenses that demonstrate the hardship. The applicant must also show that they have taken all reasonable steps to reduce the financial hardship, including the use of public transportation, carpooling, or other alternative transportation methods. To be eligible, the applicant must also have no more than two convictions of alcohol or drug-related offenses within the past five years and have completed all required requirements associated with the conviction(s). Finally, the applicant must not have had their license revoked for driving under the influence (DUI) or other criminal activity.

3. What are the restrictions on a Hardship License in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, a hardship license is a restricted license issued to individuals who have had their driver’s license revoked or suspended due to certain criminal offenses or medical conditions. The restrictions on a hardship license depend on the offense or condition, but generally, they are limited to essential driving such as commuting to work, school, medical appointments, groceries, and/or religious services. In some cases, a breathalyzer device may be required for the vehicle. All drivers with a hardship license are limited to driving during daylight hours only and are prohibited from driving with any passengers (other than necessary family members).

4. How much does a Hardship License cost in New Mexico?


A Hardship License in New Mexico costs $25 for a 6-month license, or $50 for a 12-month license.

5. What documents do I need to apply for a Hardship License in New Mexico?


In order to apply for a hardship license in New Mexico, you will need to provide the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) with evidence of your hardship, a valid New Mexico driver’s license, proof of your identity, proof of your address, and proof of financial responsibility, which includes a copy of your current insurance policy.

6. How long does it take to get a Hardship License in New Mexico?


It typically takes 3-4 weeks to obtain a Hardship License in New Mexico. However, the exact timeline may vary depending on the individual’s case.

7. Can I use a Hardship License to drive to work in New Mexico?


No, New Mexico does not issue hardship licenses.

8. Can I use a Hardship License to attend medical appointments in New Mexico?


No, a Hardship License does not allow New Mexico drivers to attend medical appointments.

9. What are the laws for Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) may be granted to an individual for a specified period of time following a license suspension or revocation due to a conviction of certain criminal offenses. A RDP allows the individual to drive only for certain specific purposes during the period of the RDP and restricts which vehicles may be operated. To be eligible for an RDP, the individual must file an application with the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) and pay any associated fees. The MVD must also determine that the individual meets all eligibility requirements and agrees to comply with all conditions of the RDP. The conditions include, but are not limited to, completion of an alcohol and drug awareness program, installation and maintenance of an ignition interlock device (IID), installation of a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID), and/or installation of a vehicle event monitor (VEM) in any vehicle driven during the period of the RDP.

10. Can I apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Mexico?


Yes, you may be eligible to apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege in New Mexico. The RDP allows individuals with a suspended or revoked driver’s license the opportunity to lawfully operate a motor vehicle for employment, education, medical, or household purposes. To apply, you must have already served a minimum of 60 days of your original period of suspension or revocation and meet all other eligibility requirements. Contact the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division for more information.

11. How much does a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) cost in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, the cost of a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) varies depending on the type of violation and the individual’s driving record. Generally speaking, the cost for an RDP is anywhere from $150 to $500, plus court costs and any other related fees.

12. What documents do I need to apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Mexico?


To apply for an RDP in New Mexico, you will need to provide proof of identity (driver’s license or state-issued ID card), proof of New Mexico residency, a completed application form, and payment for the application fee. You may also be asked to provide proof of insurance, proof of enrollment in a DWI/DUI class, a copy of your driving record from the Motor Vehicle Division, and a signed form from an employer verifying your employment details.

13. What are the restrictions for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, to be eligible for an RDP, the driver must:

– Have a valid license or permit at the time of conviction.
– Have a current New Mexico insurance policy.
– Not have been convicted of a DWI in the past 5 years or have more than two DWI convictions in the past 10 years.
– Not have been convicted of a felony involving alcohol or drugs within the past 10 years.
– Not have had a driver’s license suspended or revoked by any jurisdiction at the time of conviction.
– Not have been involved in an accident that caused injury or death to another person while driving under the influence.
– Have completed all of the required alcohol/drug education and treatment as ordered by the court.
– Comply with all other applicable court orders and conditions imposed by the court or Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).

14. How long does it take to get a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, it can take up to 6 weeks to get an RDP issued. However, it may take longer depending on the nature of the offense and the individual’s driving record.

15. Can I use a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) to drive to work in New Mexico?


Yes. In New Mexico, you can use an RDP to drive to and from work, school, medical appointments, religious services, and other essential activities.

16. Can I use a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) for medical appointments in New Mexico?


Yes, you can use a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) to make necessary medical appointments in New Mexico.

17. Are there any other restrictions on my driving privileges in New Mexico?


Yes. A driver’s license in New Mexico may include restrictions for certain medical conditions or disabilities. Drivers may also be restricted from operating certain types of vehicles, such as commercial or large vehicles. Additionally, all drivers are subject to New Mexico’s graduated licensing program, which restricts certain privileges for teenage drivers under 18.

18. Who is eligible for a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, only those who have had their driver’s license revoked or suspended due to a DWI, or DUI conviction are eligible for a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP)license. This allows them to drive to and from work, school, treatment, and other activities deemed essential by the court.

19. How long is the validity of a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Mexico?


In New Mexico, the validity of a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) is typically 90 days.

20. Are there any additional costs associated with obtaining a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Mexico?


Yes, there are additional costs associated with obtaining a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Mexico. The applicant must pay the requisite filing fees and must also pay for an ignition interlock device, if one is required. Additionally, the applicant must pay for any court-ordered classes or assessments that are ordered as part of the license process.