1. Confirm Whether You Need a Permit
You must apply for a New Mexico trucking permit if your vehicle or load exceeds legal limits:
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Width over 8′6″
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Height over 14′
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Length beyond state limits
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Gross vehicle weight over 80,000 lbs
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Axle or bridge weight limits exceeded
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Special equipment or non-divisible loads
If any limit is exceeded, a permit is required before entering New Mexico.
2. Identify the Correct Permit Type
Determine which permit applies to your move:
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Single-Trip Permit (one-time move)
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Annual Permit (frequent operations, size/weight limits apply)
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Superload Permit (extreme size or weight)
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Special Industry Permit (oilfield, construction, agriculture)
Choosing the wrong permit type is a common first-time mistake.
3. Gather Required Vehicle & Load Information
Have the following ready before applying:
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Truck and trailer VINs
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License plate numbers
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Axle configuration and spacing
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Exact load dimensions (height, width, length)
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Gross and axle weights
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Load description (must specify if non-divisible)
Incomplete or estimated data can cause permit rejection.
4. Plan Your Route in Advance
New Mexico permits are route-specific.
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Identify entry and exit points
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Choose state-approved highways
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Avoid restricted bridges or roads
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Check for construction or seasonal closures
Your approved route must be followed exactly once the permit is issued.
5. Determine Escort / Pilot Car Requirements
Depending on load size:
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One or more pilot cars may be required
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Escort vehicles must meet NM certification standards
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Some superloads require law enforcement escorts
Escort details must match permit conditions.
6. Check Travel Time & Day Restrictions
New Mexico restricts permitted travel during:
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Night hours (depending on load size)
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Weekends and major holidays
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Adverse weather conditions
Verify allowed travel windows before scheduling delivery.
7. Register for Weight-Distance Tax (If Applicable) at https://www.newmexicotruckingonline.com/
If your vehicle:
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Operates over 26,000 lbs, and
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Travels in New Mexico
You must:
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Register for New Mexico Weight-Distance Tax, or
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Obtain a temporary trip permit
This requirement applies even to interstate carriers.
8. Apply Through the https://www.newmexicotruckingonline.com/
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Submit permit application through New Mexico https://www.newmexicotruckingonline.com/
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Double-check all measurements and weights
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Pay required permit fees
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Save confirmation and permit documents
Permits must be approved before travel begins.
9. Carry Required Documents in the Vehicle
Before entering New Mexico, ensure the driver has:
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Printed or electronic permit copy
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Escort documentation (if required)
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Insurance proof
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Vehicle registration
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Weight-distance tax credentials
Missing paperwork can result in roadside citations.
10. Stop at Ports of Entry & Weigh Stations
New Mexico enforces compliance through:
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Ports of Entry at state borders
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Weigh stations and mobile inspections
Failure to stop can result in fines or out-of-service orders.
11. Follow Permit Conditions Exactly
Once permitted:
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Stay on the approved route
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Travel only during allowed times
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Use required signage, flags, and lighting
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Maintain escort positioning
Even small deviations can invalidate the permit.
12. Keep Records for Future Permits
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Save permits and approvals
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Track routes and compliance notes
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Record escort and inspection experiences
Good records make future permit applications faster and smoother.