For Kentucky Trucking Permits Visit Here - https://www.kentuckytruckingonline.com/
1. Ports of Entry Clearance (Mandatory Stop)
All commercial vehicles entering New Mexico must stop at official Ports of Entry along designated highways to be inspected and manifested (cleared) before proceeding. This includes:
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Credentials check
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Weight & height compliance
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Collection of applicable taxes/fees
Failure to stop can result in citations and fines.
2. Required Credentials for Out-of-State Carriers
Kentucky carriers must carry and have available the following when crossing into New Mexico:
Federal & Standard Documents
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U.S. DOT Number – Required for vehicles with GVW of 10,001 lbs. or more in interstate commerce.
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Interstate Operating Authority – FMCSA authority if you operate as a for-hire interstate carrier.
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IFTA License & Decals – International Fuel Tax Agreement license with proper decals displayed.
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IRP Registration – International Registration Plan registration that includes New Mexico or a valid NM trip permit.
New Mexico-Specific
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Trip Permit (if not IRP) – If your Kentucky IRP does not list New Mexico, you must purchase a NM trip permit at the Port of Entry.
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New Mexico Tax Identification Permit – NM may require state tax ID or registration for carriers traveling or performing business in the state.
These are enforced at ports of entry and through roadside inspections — not having them can result in roadside stops and fines.
3. Weight-Distance Tax Requirements
If your vehicle or fleet exceeds certain gross weights, you may be subject to New Mexico’s Weight-Distance Tax (WDT):
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Applies to heavy commercial vehicles traveling on both interstate and intrastate routes.
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Requires annual registration and quarterly mileage reporting.
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Must keep proof of filing for enforcement checks.
4. Oversize/Overweight Permits
Any truck or load exceeding New Mexico’s legal size or weight limits must have a special oversize/overweight permit before traveling. These are obtainable online or at ports, and failure to have one before travel can result in fines or being turned back.
5. Safety & Compliance Inspections
Upon entering, carriers are subject to:
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Mechanical & safety inspections
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Driver credential checks
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Logbook and ELD compliance
These are conducted by New Mexico Motor Transportation Police and NM ports of entry — be sure all equipment, inspection reports, and driver qualifications are up-to-date
Quick Checklist Before Entering New Mexico
Active U.S. DOT Number
Valid IRP registration including NM or NM trip permit
IFTA license + fuel decals
Weight-Distance Tax registration (if applicable)
Oversize/Overweight permits before travel
Up-to-date insurance and vehicle docs
https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/commercial/commercial-vehicles/ports-of-entry-information/