Commercial Vehicle Registration and Titling in New Mexico

Oct. 24, 2025, 5:42 a.m.
Registering and titling a commercial vehicle in New Mexico is a key step before operating legally on state and interstate highways. The process is managed by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) in cooperation with the Motor Transportation Police Division (MTPD) and New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT).
Commercial Vehicle Registration and Titling in New Mexico

1. Who Must Register

All commercial vehicles operating within or through New Mexico must be properly registered and titled. This includes:

  • Trucks, tractors, and trailers used for business or hauling cargo.

  • Fleet vehicles engaged in interstate commerce.

  • Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 26,000 lbs.

Interstate carriers are typically registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP), while intrastate operators must register directly with the New Mexico MVD.

2. Required Documentation

When applying for registration and title, carriers must provide:

  • Proof of ownership (manufacturer’s certificate of origin or prior title).

  • Proof of insurance meeting state requirements.

  • USDOT or NM DOT number.

  • Lease agreements (if applicable).

  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection.

  • Weight certificate for accurate tax assessment.

3. Registration Options

New Mexico offers several registration options for commercial carriers:

  • IRP Apportioned Plates: For fleets traveling in multiple states; fees are apportioned by mileage.

  • Intrastate Plates: For carriers operating only within New Mexico.

  • Temporary Trip Permits: For one-time or short-term operations without full registration.

All vehicles must also pay the Weight-Distance Tax (WDT) based on total miles traveled in New Mexico and vehicle weight.

4. Titling Process

Titles are issued by the MVD after submission of ownership and identity documents. Out-of-state vehicles must first clear a VIN inspection. Lienholders are recorded on the title if the vehicle is financed.

5. Renewal and Compliance

Registrations must be renewed annually. Carriers should:

  • Keep accurate mileage and fuel records for IRP and IFTA filings.

  • Ensure all safety inspections and tax payments are up to date.

  • Display valid apportioned or intrastate plates at all times.

Failure to maintain compliance may result in fines, vehicle impoundment, or suspension of credentials.

6. Where to Apply

Carriers can complete registration and titling at:

  • Any New Mexico MVD office offering commercial services, or

  • Through the MVD IRP Unit in Santa Fe for interstate fleets.

Online services are also available via the New Mexico MVD portal for certain renewals and document submissions.

Summary

Proper registration and titling ensure compliance with New Mexico’s commercial vehicle laws, enable smooth operations across state lines, and help carriers avoid costly penalties. Staying current with IRP, IFTA, and WDT filings keeps your fleet road-ready and legally compliant.