State-specific trucking permits and registrations

Oct. 5, 2025, 10:07 a.m.
In New Mexico, commercial motor carriers must comply with various state-specific permits and registration requirements to operate legally. Here's an overview of the key permits and regulations:
State-specific trucking permits and registrations

1. Weight-Distance Tax (WDT) Permit

  • Applicability: Required for vehicles with a declared gross weight over 26,000 pounds operating on New Mexico highways.

  • Registration: Obtainable through the www.newmexicotruckingonline.com 

  • Filing: Quarterly returns are mandatory, with penalties for late submissions.

  • Renewal: Annual renewal is required, contingent upon current quarterly filings.

  • Cost: Approximately $97 per vehicle, and then quarterely mileage reports, based on the traveled miles and declared grossweight.

2. International Registration Plan (IRP)

  • Purpose: Apportioned registration for vehicles operating in multiple jurisdictions.

  • Requirement: Necessary for interstate carriers operating vehicles with a gross weight over 26,000 pounds.

  • Issuance: Issued by the www.newmexicotruckingonline.com 

  • Documentation: Requires proof of the federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) payment.

 

 3. International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) License

  • Scope: Simplifies fuel tax reporting for vehicles operating in multiple jurisdictions.

  • Eligibility: Applies to vehicles with a gross weight over 26,000 pounds or three or more axles.

  • Issuance: Obtained through the www.newmexicotruckingonline.com 

  • Requirements: Quarterly fuel tax reports and payment of taxes due.

4. Oversize/Overweight Permits

  • Need: Required for vehicles exceeding legal size or weight limits.

  • Types: Includes single-trip and annual permits.

  • Application: Can be obtained through the www.newmexicotruckingonline.com 

  • Considerations: Specific routes and times may be designated for such vehicles.

 5. Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)

  • Mandate: Federal program requiring interstate carriers to register and pay fees based on fleet size.

  • Scope: Applies to carriers operating in interstate commerce.

  • Registration: Completed online through the www.truckingtax.online

 6. Ports of Entry Compliance

  • Requirement: All commercial motor vehicles must stop at New Mexico Ports of Entry for credential verification and clearance.

  • Function: Ports assess taxes, inspect vehicles, and ensure compliance with state laws.

  • Locations: Strategically placed along major highways in New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division NM.

 7. Federal Motor Carrier Authority

  • Obligations: Carriers must obtain a USDOT number and, if engaging in interstate commerce, an MC number.

  • Filing: BOC-3 filing is required, designating legal agents for service of process.

  • Insurance: Proof of insurance must be submitted to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).