New Mexico DOT Trucking Permits Explained

Jan. 7, 2026, 1:34 p.m.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) requires trucking permits for commercial vehicles that exceed legal size, weight, or configuration limits when operating on New Mexico highways . These permits help protect road infrastructure, ensure public safety, and regulate heavy haul operations across the state.
New Mexico DOT Trucking Permits

What Is a Trucking Permit in New Mexico? 

A New Mexico trucking permit is official authorization allowing a commercial vehicle or load to operate beyond standard legal limits, including:

  •  Oversize (width, height, or length)

  •  Overweight (gross or axle weight)

  •  Non-standard configurations

  •  Specialized loads (construction, oilfield, mobile units)

If your truck or load exceeds legal limits, a permit is required before entering or moving within New Mexico .

When Do You Need a New Mexico Trucking Permit? 

You need a permit if your vehicle or load exceeds any of these typical limits:

  • Width: Over 8′6″ 

  • Height: Over 14′ 

  • Length: Beyond legal truck/trailer limits 

  • Weight: Over 80,000 lbs gross 

Even out-of-state carriers must comply when operating in New Mexico.

Types of Trucking Permits in New Mexico 

1. Single-Trip Permits 

  • Valid for one specific move

  • Includes approved route, dates, and load details

  • Ideal for occasional oversize or overweight hauls

2. Annual (Continuous) Permits 

  • Valid for 12 months

  • Allows repeated movements within set limits

  • Common for construction fleets and oilfield carriers 

3. Overweight-Only Permits 

  • For loads exceeding weight limits but within legal dimensions

4. Superload Permits 

  • Required for extremely large or heavy loads

  • Often includes engineering reviews, escorts, and route studies

How to Get a Trucking Permit in New Mexico 

Permits are  issued through https://www.newmexicotruckingonline.com/

You’ll need:

  •  Vehicle & trailer details

  •  Exact load dimensions and weight

  •  Proposed travel route

  • Dates of movement

Many permits can be issued same day, while complex loads may take longer .

Escort & Route Requirements 

Depending on size and weight, NMDOT may require:

  •  Pilot/escort vehicles

  •  Daylight-only travel

  •  Holiday or weekend restrictions

  •  Specific approved routes

Failure to follow permit conditions can result in fines or shutdowns.

Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Operating without a required permit can lead to:

  •  Citations and fines

  •  Vehicle out-of-service orders

  •  Liability for road or bridge damage

  • Enforcement delays at ports of entry

Who Commonly Needs New Mexico Trucking Permits? 

  • Heavy haul and oversize carriers 

  • Oilfield and energy haulers 

  • Construction and equipment transporters 

  • Out-of-state trucking companies 

  • Owner-operators with specialized loads 

Quick Summary 

Permit Type Best For
Single-Trip One-time oversize/overweight moves
Annual Repeated hauling within limits
Overweight Heavy loads within legal dimensions
Superload Extremely large or heavy projects

 

 

New Mexico DOT Trucking Permits