Common Permit Violations and How to Avoid Penalties

Dec. 5, 2025, 2:49 p.m.
New Mexico enforces strict trucking permit rules through the Motor Transportation Police Division (MTPD) and the state’s Ports of Entry. Carriers that operate without proper permits can face expensive fines, delays, out-of-service orders, or even impoundments. Understanding the most common permit violations—and how to prevent them—helps carriers stay compliant and avoid costly setbacks. Below are the top violations and the best strategies to stay penalty-free.
New Mexico Trucking Permits

1. Operating Without a Valid Trip Permit

Violation:
Entering or traveling through New Mexico without an active Trip Permit when IRP credentials are missing or expired.

Consequences:

  • Fines

  • Being stopped at Ports of Entry

  • Forced purchase of permit at higher cost

How to Avoid It:

  • Purchase a trip permit before entering the state.

  • Verify IRP registration is current for each vehicle.

2. Overweight Without Proper Authorization

Violation:
Operating above legal weight limits without an Oversize/Overweight (OS/OW) permit.

Consequences:

  • Overweight fines based on excess pounds

  • Vehicle shutdown until weight is corrected

  • Forced offloading

How to Avoid It:

  • Pre-weigh loads before departure.

  • Get OS/OW permits in advance.

  • Follow route maps provided with the permit.

3. Incorrect or Invalid Routing

Violation:
Straying from the route specified on an oversize/overweight permit.

Consequences:

  • Permit invalidation

  • Citations at Ports of Entry

  • Safety risks on restricted roads

How to Avoid It:

  • Review the permit’s route instructions carefully.

  • Train drivers on New Mexico routing restrictions.

  • Use GPS designed for commercial vehicles.

4. Failure to Stop at Ports of Entry

Violation:
Failing to stop when entering New Mexico at mandatory Ports of Entry.

Consequences:

  • High fines

  • Possible chase-down by MTPD officers

  • Additional inspections

How to Avoid It:

  • Ensure drivers know New Mexico requires all commercial vehicles to stop.

  • Use signage to alert drivers before the state line.

5. Expired or Missing Fuel Permit (Non-IFTA Carriers)

Violation:
Operating in New Mexico without a valid temporary fuel permit when not enrolled in IFTA.

Consequences:

  • Fuel tax penalties

  • Forced purchase of permit at the port

How to Avoid It:

  • Purchase a temporary fuel permit before entry.

  • Verify IFTA decals and licenses annually.

6. Incorrect Vehicle Weight Classification

Violation:
Registering at a lower weight than the vehicle is operating with.

Consequences:

  • Under-declaration fines

  • Weight-mile tax issues

  • Additional enforcement checks

How to Avoid It:

  • Confirm accurate gross vehicle weight (GVW).

  • Use correct weight class for permits and taxes.

7. Missing or Improper Escort Vehicles

Violation:
Oversize loads operating without required pilot cars.

Consequences:

  • Immediate travel shutdown

  • Permit cancellation

  • Safety citations

How to Avoid It:

  • Check approved escort requirements on the New Mexico OS/OW permit.

  • Use certified pilot car operators when required.

8. Permit Not Onboard or Not Accessible

Violation:
Driver cannot produce a copy of the permit during an inspection.

Consequences:

  • Fine for “no permit in possession”

  • Delays at scalehouses

How to Avoid It:

  • Ensure drivers carry printed or digital copies.

  • Store all permits in a compliance binder or tablet.

9. Exceeding Travel Time Restrictions

Violation:
Driving during restricted hours such as:

  • Nighttime restrictions

  • Weather-related closures

  • Holiday travel bans

Consequences:

  • Permit void

  • Safety violations

  • Fines

How to Avoid It:

  • Follow the time-of-day restrictions listed on each permit.

  • Monitor road conditions, closures, and weather alerts.

Final Tips for Staying Compliant in New Mexico

✔ Order permits ahead of time
✔ Check routing and load dimensions twice
✔ Educate drivers on state-specific rules
✔ Keep all permits, receipts, and credentials easily accessible
✔ Communicate with New Mexico Ports of Entry when unsure

Staying compliant saves carriers from costly penalties and keeps operations running smoothly across the state.