New Mexico 5 Day Trip & Fuel Permit Options

Nov. 30, 2025, 2:38 p.m.
Carriers operating commercial vehicles in New Mexico must comply with the state’s requirements for registration, weight-distance taxes, and fuel tax obligations. For carriers who are not fully registered through IRP or IFTA—or who are entering New Mexico only temporarily—the state offers 5-Day Trip Permits and 5-Day Fuel Permits. These permits help out-of-state trucks operate legally without needing full annual credentials.
New Mexico 5 Day Trip and Fuel Permit

Always apply for trip and fuel permits here https://www.newmexicotruckingonline.com/

 

What Are New Mexico 5-Day Trip & Fuel Permits?

New Mexico issues short-term permits that allow commercial vehicles to:

 Operate in the state without IRP registration (Trip Permit)

 Operate without IFTA credentials (Fuel Permit)

Each permit is valid for 5 consecutive days (120 hours) from the start time indicated on the permit.

They are commonly used by carriers making one-time pickups, deliveries, or transit trips through New Mexico.

Who Needs a 5-Day Trip Permit?

You need a New Mexico Trip Permit if:

  • Your vehicle is registered in another state, and

  • You do not have IRP apportioned registration, and

  • You will be operating the vehicle on New Mexico highways.

Typical situations include:

  • Newly purchased trucks not yet IRP registered

  • Out-of-state carriers with temporary or in-transit plates

  • One-time movements into or through New Mexico

  • Rental/lease power units used for short-term trips

The permit allows the vehicle to legally travel without full IRP credentials.

Who Needs a 5-Day Fuel Permit?

A New Mexico Fuel Permit is required for:

  • Any commercial motor vehicle over 26,000 lbs GVW, OR

  • Any vehicle with three or more axles,

  • Operating without a valid IFTA license and decals.

This permit covers the vehicle’s fuel tax obligations for the 5-day operating window.

Common users include:

  • New carriers waiting for IFTA approval

  • Out-of-state carriers making a one-time run through NM

  • Rental/leased trucks used for short periods

Permit Validity

Both permits share the same validity period:

 120 hours (5 days)

No extensions are allowed. If travel exceeds 5 days, a new permit must be obtained.

What Information Is Needed to Issue a Permit?

To obtain a 5-Day Trip or Fuel Permit, carriers generally need to provide:

  • Vehicle VIN

  • Plate number and state

  • Unit number

  • Vehicle year, make, and model

  • Registered weight or GVW

  • USDOT number

  • Carrier name and address

  • Exact start date & time for the permit

Accurate information ensures compliance at Ports of Entry.

Where to Obtain 5-Day Permits

New Mexico allows permits to be obtained:

Because New Mexico has a strong POE system, most trucks will be checked upon entry, so it’s important to secure the permit before arrival when possible.

Cost of 5-Day Trip & Fuel Permits

The state sets a base fee, and permit services add a processing fee.
Typical pricing:

  • Trip Permit: Usually around $150–$200 (state) + service fee

  • Fuel Permit: Typically $150–$200 (state) + service fee

Most carriers pay $300–$700 per permit depending on the issuing service.

Enforcement and Penalties

New Mexico enforces commercial trucking compliance aggressively at its Ports of Entry.
Operating without proper credentials can result in:

  • Fines and civil penalties

  • Delays or holding of the vehicle

  • Mandatory purchase of permits on-site (often with additional charges)

  • Possible out-of-service placement

Failure to stop at a POE is considered a serious violation in New Mexico.

Tips for Staying Compliant

  • Secure permits before entering New Mexico whenever possible.

  • Keep printed or digital copies in the cab and available for inspection.

  • Set the start time accurately based on your expected entry.

  • If your route through NM will take longer than 5 days, plan to obtain a second permit.

  • Consider full IRP and IFTA credentials if you regularly operate interstate.