How to Apply for a New Mexico Weight Distance Permit

Dec. 28, 2025, 12:32 p.m.
A Weight Distance Permit is a tax identification permit issued by New Mexico that allows motor carriers with commercial vehicles weighing over 26,000 lbs to operate on New Mexico highways. It registers you for the state’s Weight Distance Tax (WDT), which is calculated based on your vehicle’s weight and miles traveled within the state.
New Mexico Weight Distance Permit

Step-by-Step: How to Apply

1. Determine If You Need the Permit

You must apply if your commercial vehicle:

  • Has a declared or actual gross vehicle weight over 26,000 lbs, and

  • Will operate (intrastate or interstate) on New Mexico highways.  

2. Gather Required Information

Before you start the application process, collect the following:

  • USDOT Number

  • FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number)

  • Legal business name and address

  • Vehicle details (VIN, unit number, registered weight)

  • Contact email and phone
    These details are needed to register and identify each vehicle on your permit.  

3. Register for an Online Account

Most carriers apply online through the https://www.newmexicotruckingonline.com/
You’ll need to create an account using your business information.  

4. Complete the Weight Distance Permit Application

Once logged in:

  • Select Weight Distance Tax / Permit Application

  • Enter your business and vehicle details for each truck

  • Confirm that the information matches what’s on your vehicle registrations and USDOT records

After submission, the state will review your application.  

5. Pay Applicable Fees

There is an administrative fee for issuing a permit   – $97 per permit, plus any applicable WDT charges. 

You can   pay online with a credit/debit card during the filing process.  

6. Receive and Display Your Permit

After approval:

  • You will receive your Weight Distance Permit (tax identification permit).

  • Permits are valid through December 31 of the issuance year.  

  • Keep a copy in each vehicle that is registered on the permit.

7. Quarterly WDT Filings

Once you have a permit, you must file Weight Distance Tax returns quarterly, even if you drove zero miles in New Mexico during the period. Filing deadlines are typically:

  • April 30, July 31, October 31, and January 31 for the previous quarter.  

These filings are also done online via the same portal used to apply at https://www.newmexicotruckingonline.com/

 Tips & Compliance Notes

Register before operating in New Mexico — enforcement at Ports of Entry may require proof of permit before you enter. 
Quarterly filing is mandatory; penalties can apply for failure to file or pay.
Even if you only pass through New Mexico once, a permit and tax filing may still be required. 

 Summary

Step Action
1 Check if your vehicle needs a permit
2 Gather business & vehicle info
3 Create online account in TAP/Tax portal
4 Complete & submit application
5 Pay fees and receive permit
6 Download/display permit in each unit
7 File quarterly tax returns

 

https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/commercial/commercial-vehicles/weight-distance/