Temporary Trip and Fuel Permits for Out-of-State Carriers

Nov. 12, 2025, 5:18 p.m.
If you operate a commercial truck registered outside of New Mexico and plan to travel within the state, you may need temporary permits to stay compliant with New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) and Motor Transportation Division (MTD) regulations. These permits allow legal operation without full registration or fuel tax licensing.
Temporary Trip and Fuel Permits New Mexico

1. Temporary Trip Permit

Purpose:
Allows out-of-state commercial carriers to operate legally in New Mexico without obtaining full IRP (International Registration Plan) credentials.

Who Needs It:
Any vehicle not registered under IRP or not apportioned for New Mexico that intends to travel within the state.

Validity:

  • Duration: Up to  5 days from issuance

  • Coverage: Legal operation on New Mexico highways during that period

When Required:

  • One-time deliveries or short-term hauls through New Mexico

  • Moving newly purchased commercial vehicles

  • Transporting equipment for special projects or events

How to Obtain:

  • Available online through the  www.newmexicotruckingonline.com

  • Can also be purchased  over the phone (505) 578-2195

Information Needed:

  • Vehicle details (VIN, plate, weight, configuration)

  • Origin and destination points

  • Dates of operation

Cost:

  • Typically $125 per trip, though subject to change based on NMDOT updates

2. Temporary Fuel Permit

Purpose:
For out-of-state carriers not registered under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) to pay applicable New Mexico fuel taxes while operating in the state.

Who Needs It:
Any commercial vehicle:

  • Operating in New Mexico without an IFTA license and decals

  • Traveling interstate for short-term business

Validity:

  • Duration: 5 days

  • Covers all state fuel tax obligations for the duration

When Required:

  • Non-IFTA carriers making short trips through New Mexico

  • Out-of-state truckers making deliveries or pickups within state lines

How to Obtain:

  • Purchase online via the www.newmexicotruckingonline.com

  • Can also be purchased  over the phone (505) 578-2195

Cost:

  • Usually $50–$300 per permit, depending on current state fee schedules

3. Important Compliance Notes

  • Carry the permit in the cab of the vehicle at all times.

  • Do not exceed the validity period — renewal or extension may be required for longer trips.

  • IFTA-registered carriers do not need a temporary fuel permit.

  • Weight and size limits still apply; an oversize/overweight permit must be obtained separately if necessary.

4. Ports of Entry and Enforcement

New Mexico has multiple Ports of Entry (POE) along major interstate routes, including:

  • I-10 near Lordsburg

  • I-40 near Gallup and Tucumcari

  • I-25 near Raton

At these locations, officers may verify trip and fuel permits, vehicle weights, and registration compliance.

Failure to obtain proper permits can result in:

  • Fines and penalties

  • Vehicle impoundment

  • Delays at weigh stations or Ports of Entry

5. Key Takeaways

  • Trip Permit: Legalizes vehicle operation for 5 day

  • Fuel Permit: Covers short-term fuel tax obligations for non-IFTA carriers

  • Both Permits: Obtainable online or at Ports of Entry, must be carried in-vehicle

  • Purpose: Streamlines short-term or one-time operations for out-of-state carriers

 Example Scenario

A Texas-based trucking company that’s not apportioned for New Mexico wants to deliver equipment in Albuquerque.

  • They must purchase a 5 day Temporary Trip Permit and a 5 day Temporary Fuel Permit before entering the state.

  • If the truck exceeds legal weight limits, a separate Overweight Permit is also required.