This page presents the source material collected so far. Some requirements may still need direct confirmation.
NMNew Mexico CDL permit test guide
The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.
- Licensing agency
- New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
- Official CDL page
- mvd.newmexico.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- mvd.newmexico.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- mvd.newmexico.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- Confirm with the agency
We have not confirmed this state's current language policy from an official source. Ask the agency before you book.
- Source collection date
Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)
- Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
- Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
- Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
- Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
- Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
- Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
- Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.
What is different in this state
- Knowledge tests
You may take CDL knowledge tests no more than 2 times in a 7-day period, with no yearly limit. Each knowledge and skills part is graded separately and 80% passes.
- Also important
Skills tests are given by approved third-party examiners and paid to them, not the state. After a failed skills test wait 7 days; after 3 failures in a year you must wait 1 year from the first test.
- State manual
New Mexico's posted CDL manual is an older edition of the national text, so a few numbers (like the low-air warning) differ from newer manuals.
Where this state's manual differs
- 5.1.11 New Mexico's manual says the low-air warning must come on before tank pressure falls below 60 psi (national text: 55 psi).
- 5.2 In the dual air brake section, the warning light and buzzer must come on before 60 psi in either system (national: 55 psi).
State-only topics in the manual
- New Mexico CDL licensing information insert: required documents, knowledge-test limits, third-party skills testing, passing score, implied consent law, ELDT.
Source collection date:
The three permit tests
General Knowledge
Required for every CDL class.
Mock examAir Brakes
Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.
Mock examCombination Vehicles
Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).
Mock exam7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.