1. Weight-Distance Tax (WDT) – Primary Permit for Owner-Operators
What it is:
In New Mexico, owner-operators with commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) over 26,000 lbs GVW must register for the New Mexico Weight-Distance Tax (WDT) permit and pay tax based on weight and miles driven on New Mexico roads.
Who must register:
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Owners and operators of CMVs (interstate and intrastate) weighing 26,001 lbs or more on New Mexico highways.
How it works:
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You obtain a Weight-Distance Tax Electronic Permit before operating.
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File quarterly tax returns reporting miles traveled and declared vehicle weight.
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Annual registration is required for each vehicle subject to the WDT.
Intrastate vs interstate:
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Vehicles titled in New Mexico and traveling only within the state get a weight-distance plate.
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Those traveling interstate receive an IRP plate and still must have the WDT account.
2. Oversize / Overweight Permits
If you haul loads that exceed legal size or weight limits, you’ll need a separate permit:
Legal dimensions & weights in New Mexico:
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Width: 8′ 6″
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Height: 14′
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Length: 57′ 6″ (typical)
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Weight limits tied to axles and gross weight (80,000 lbs general cap without special permit).
Permit types:
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Single-trip oversize/overweight permits: For one-time moves with non-divisible loads.
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Multiple-trip permits: For repeated movements under defined size/weight thresholds.
Fees:
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Standard single trip session often ~$95 plus weight/mile charges if overweight beyond 86,400 lbs.
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Annual or multiple-trip permits may be higher (e.g., $250).
Important notes:
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Permits must be issued before movement; it’s illegal to operate oversize or overweight loads without them.
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Proof of insurance may be required for special overweight permits.
3. Trip & Temporary Permits
Owner-operators who don’t maintain a permanent WDT account or cross the state occasionally may opt for temporary permits at https://www.newmexicotruckingonline.com/
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Temporary permits are sold at ports if you don’t have a permanent permit and your truck is overweight or you don’t have WDT credentials yet.
This can be useful for owner-operators making infrequent runs through New Mexico.
4. Other Considerations for Owner-Operators
Ports of Entry
Commercial vehicles entering New Mexico must stop at ports of entry for credential checks and permit verification.
Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT)
For vehicles 55,000 lbs and over, proof of federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (Form 2290) may be required at registration.
Exemptions
Certain farm vehicles and implements of husbandry used within limits might be exempt from overweight/oversize permit fees under specific conditions.
Summary – What Owner-Operators Need in New Mexico
Weight-Distance Tax Permit (annual, quarterly reporting) for CMVs ≥ 26,001 lbs.
Oversize/Overweight Permits if your load exceeds state limits.
Temporary or Trip Permits for occasional operations without permanent WDT.
Ports of Entry compliance and documentation inspections.
Proof of insurance or HVUT for certain permits and registrations.