New Mexico Temporary Registration Permits for Trucks

Jan. 2, 2026, 5:04 p.m.
New Mexico Temporary Registration Permits for Trucks — including what they are, who needs them, how long they’re valid, and how to obtain them:
New Mexico Temporary Registration Permits

1. Temporary Registration Permits (MVD – Motor Vehicle Division)

These are “temp tags” that allow a truck (or other vehicle) to be driven legally while permanent registration/title paperwork is in process:

 What They Are

  • A temporary registration permit (temp tag) allows a vehicle to be legally operated on New Mexico public roads pending registration/title processing or renewal. 

Validity

  • Up to 30 business days from date of validation (no extensions except for good cause).  

 Typical Uses

  • New vehicle purchase when permanent plates haven’t arrived.

  • Registration pending with MVD.

  • Renewal of registration that can’t be completed before the current tag expires.

  • Issued to individuals and dealers (for vehicles sold at retail).   Requirements to Get One

To obtain a regular temporary registration permit at a New Mexico MVD office (or through an agent like MVD Express):

  • Vehicle title or proof of ownership (bill of sale).

  • Completed Application for Vehicle Title and Registration (MVD form).

  • Proof of insurance.

  • Valid driver’s license (New Mexico or out-of-state depending on situation). 

 If you purchased a truck from a dealer in NM, they often issue the temp tag immediately via the New Mexico online Vehicle Registration Suite (VRS) system.

 2. Other Temporary Permits Related to Trucks

Transportation Permits

For moving an unregistered vehicle short distances (like delivering to a dealer or transporting it within/out of NM):

  • Valid up to 10 business days (or 5 business days in some cases). 

Demonstration Permits

For dealers to operate vehicles in inventory for demonstration purposes. 

 3. Temporary Trip & Fuel Permits (Commercial Trucks Outside IRP/IFTA)

If you’re operating a commercial truck not registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP) and you’ll be traveling into or through NM, you may need a trip permit and sometimes a fuel permit:

 When They’re Needed

  • Your commercial truck isn’t apportioned under IRP for New Mexico.

  • You plan a one‑time delivery or short haul through NM. 

 Validity

  • Trip permits are typically valid up to 5 days from issuance.

  • Fuel permits (if required for non‑IFTA carriers) cover fuel tax for the time you’re operating in NM. 

 Key Compliance Notes

  • Carry the permit in the cab.

  • Overweight/oversize loads require separate permits.

  • Even with a trip permit, depending on weight‑distance tax rules, you might need additional permits to operate legally. 

 Summary: Key Differences

Type of Permit Issued By Validity Purpose
Temporary Registration Permit (Temp Tag) MVD Up to 30 business days Operate vehicle while title/registration processes
Transportation Permit MVD 5–10 business days Short‑term movement of unregistered vehicle
Trip Permit (Commercial) MVD/MTD/NMDOT Usually up to 5 days Operate truck not in IRP thru NM
Fuel Permit (Commercial) MVD/MTD/NMDOT Typically 5 days Covers fuel tax obligations for non‑IFTA carriers

 Where to Apply

 

For Trip/Fuel Permits (Commercial Trucks)

 

New Mexico Temporary Registration Permits