Trip Permit Requirements
A trip permit is needed when a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) enters New Mexico and does not have apportioned registration under the International Registration Plan (IRP). Some of the main trigger conditions:
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The vehicle (power unit) has 3 or more axles, regardless of weight.
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The power unit or the combination (tow + trailer) has a registered or gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 26,001 pounds or more.
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The vehicle is traveling interstate (or through NM) and is not covered by IRP for NM.
Other notable points:
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The permit is temporary in nature and is intended for vehicles that are not otherwise properly registered for interstate travel in that jurisdiction.
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You’ll need to provide vehicle info: axle count, GVW, trailer combination, etc.
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Many permit-services list a flat fee for the permit (for example some show “5-day permit” at set price) though you’ll want to verify with NM official source.
Fuel Permit Requirements
A fuel permit (often related to fuel tax compliance) in New Mexico is required when a vehicle is operating without proper fuel tax credentials under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA). Key triggers include:
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The power unit has 3 or more axles (regardless of weight) and operates interstate or in multiple jurisdictions.
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The power unit has 2 axles and GVW of 26,001 pounds or more
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The combination (tow + trailer) has a GVW of 26,001 pounds or more.
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If the vehicle doesn’t hold IFTA license/decals for the jurisdictions it will be in, then a temporary fuel permit may be required.
Additionally:
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Under NM statute § 7-16A-19, a temporary special fuel user permit may be required for a vehicle not registered and using special fuel, valid for one calendar day or one entry/exit. Fee: $95.00 per vehicle.
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There’s a weight‐distance tax for vehicles with declared gross vehicle weight above 26,000 pounds. That’s a separate but relevant tax/permit regime.
What You Should Do to Comply
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Confirm whether your vehicle is properly registered under IRP (for registration) and IFTA (for fuel tax) when operating interstate.
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If not registered under IRP and you’ll travel into/through NM with a qualifying vehicle (3+ axles or 26,001+ lbs), obtain a trip permit before movement.
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If not registered under IFTA and you’ll travel into/through NM with qualifying vehicle (3+ axles or 2 axles + 26,001+ lbs), obtain a fuel permit or a combined trip & fuel permit.
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Ensure you carry the permit documentation while operating in NM — enforcement may ask for it at ports of entry.
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Be aware of additional taxes: the weight‐distance tax (for vehicles over 26,000 lbs) may apply for intrastate or interstate travel in NM.
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Check for validity/range of permit (some temporary fuel/special fuel permits valid for one entry/exit or limited hours) to ensure you remain within permit scope.