New Mexico Trip Permit: What is it and how enforcement is being done

Dec. 11, 2025, 4:50 p.m.
A trip permit (also linked to the trip tax) is essentially a short-term authorization for out-of-state commercial motor vehicles to use New Mexico roads when they aren’t registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP) or in the state’s weight-distance tax system. New Mexico Trucking Permit New Mexico’s Motor Transportation Police Division (MTPD) typically issues these permits as part of the enforcement process.
New Mexico Trip Permit

Who Needs a Trip Permit

You’ll generally need a trip permit if:

  • Your commercial motor vehicle is not registered in New Mexico or isn’t apportioned under IRP.  

  • Your vehicle has 3 or more axles or gross vehicle weight (GVW) over certain thresholds (e.g., > 26,000 lbs).  

  • You’re temporarily operating in New Mexico for business or travel purposes.  

If your vehicle is properly registered under IRP or enrolled in NM’s weight-distance tax program, you typically do not need a trip permit. 

 When It’s Required

  • Before or upon entry into New Mexico — especially at ports of entry. 

  • For one-time or occasional trips where you don’t intend to establish a permanent presence.  

 Cost, Rules & Duration

Trip permit fees and the corresponding “trip tax” are based on vehicle weight and miles traveled in New Mexico. The trip permit is generally meant for short-term, limited travel, and carries a fee that varies by vehicle class.  

Third-party guides suggest a typical trip permit might cover around 120 consecutive hours (5 days), and that fees may be fixed (e.g., around $195) or vary based on mileage traveled. Always check official state sources for current fees and validity.

 How It Works at Ports of Entry

New Mexico ports of entry are staffed by the MTPD, which:

  • Checks your credentials (registration, weight, permits)

  • Collects any required taxes and fees

  • Issues trip or other permits as needed

If you fail to get the required permit before traveling, you could face fines or enforcement actions.  

 Key Notes

  • Trip permits don’t replace registration but allow temporary compliance.  

  • Repeated operations might be better served by enrolling in New Mexico’s weight-distance tax program or registering under IRP, rather than buying multiple trip permits.  

  • Always carry the permit in your vehicle for inspections.

 

 

Source:

 

https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/commercial/commercial-vehicles/ports-of-entry-information/