UCR Enforcement in New Mexico-What Motor Carriers Need to Know

Nov. 22, 2025, 8:23 p.m.
The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program requires most interstate motor carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, and leasing companies to register and pay annual fees. In New Mexico, UCR enforcement is taken seriously and is integrated into the state’s commercial vehicle inspection and safety systems. Below is a detailed look at how New Mexico enforces UCR rules, who is affected, and what penalties apply.
UCR in New Mexico

Always register your UCR here:

 

https://www.fmcsa.me/

 

 

1. Who Enforces UCR in New Mexico?

UCR enforcement in New Mexico is primarily handled by:

  • New Mexico Motor Transportation Police Division (MTPD)

  • Port of Entry (POE) officers

  • State commercial vehicle inspectors

These agencies verify UCR status during inspections, roadside checks, weigh station stops, and commercial vehicle safety audits.

2. When and How UCR Is Checked

New Mexico checks UCR compliance at multiple enforcement points:

At Ports of Entry

New Mexico is one of the states that operates mandatory POE stops for commercial vehicles. During check-ins, officers confirm:

  • UCR registration status

  • Carrier USDOT number

  • Operating authority

  • Valid permits and credentials

If UCR is missing, carriers may be denied entry until issues are resolved.

 During Roadside Inspections

Officers can run a quick USDOT query to verify if the carrier has paid their UCR fees for the current year.

During Safety Audits

New entrant audits and compliance reviews include UCR verification.

3. Who Must Comply in New Mexico?

Any motor carrier traveling interstate through New Mexico must have UCR, including:

  • For-hire carriers

  • Private carriers

  • Exempt carriers (e.g., hauling their own goods)

  • Brokers and freight forwarders

  • Leasing companies

Intrastate-only carriers are exempt.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

If a carrier enters or travels within New Mexico without required UCR registration, enforcement actions may include:

Fines

Typical UCR-related citations may range from $100 to $500+, depending on circumstances.

 Denial of Movement

At Ports of Entry, officers may require the carrier to purchase UCR on the spot before being allowed to proceed.

 Possible Out-of-Service Orders

While UCR violations alone usually do not place a vehicle out of service, combined violations or operating illegally across state lines may trigger further action.

5. How Carriers Can Stay Compliant

To avoid enforcement penalties:

  • Register annually between October 1 – December 31 for the next year

  • Ensure your USDOT number is active and updated

  • Keep a copy of your UCR receipt (digital or printed)

  • Verify that all vehicles in your fleet are properly counted for fee calculations

6. Does New Mexico Participate in UCR Revenue Distribution?

Yes. New Mexico is a participating UCR state, meaning:

  • They receive a share of funds from UCR fees

  • They are required to conduct a minimum level of enforcement

  • They must report activity to the UCR Board annually

New Mexico’s enforcement levels are typically considered strong due to its border POE system.

7. Key Takeaways

  • New Mexico enforces UCR aggressively, especially at its Ports of Entry.

  • Interstate carriers must have current UCR registration before entering the state.

  • Fines, delays, and mandatory onsite compliance purchases are common consequences.

  • Staying registered and keeping documentation on hand prevents violations.