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New Mexico permit requirements

New Mexico learner-permit requirements

Checked against official state sources · October 1, 2026

For teens, New Mexico's graduated licensing system begins with an instructional permit at age 15 and combines driver education, testing and supervised practice.

  • 15minimum permit age
  • 6 monthsminimum hold
  • 50 / 10practice / nighttime hours

Start at age 15

Teen applicants must be enrolled in or have completed an approved driver-education program before the instructional-permit transaction.

Complete vision and knowledge testing

The MVD permit process includes vision screening and the knowledge exam unless an authorized contracted school supplies an accepted completion record.

Complete the supervised-driving stage

Before the provisional stage, the permit must be held at least six months and the teen must complete 50 supervised hours, including 10 at night.

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    Official sources

    1. New Mexico MVD — Learner's Permit
    2. New Mexico MVD — Driver Manuals
    3. New Mexico MVD — Road & Written Test Requirements
    4. New Mexico MVD — Driver's Licenses & IDs
    5. New Mexico MVD — Driver Education Info

    Independent study resource. Road to Permit is not affiliated with or endorsed by any DMV, DPS, FLHSMV or other government agency. Official state sources control if information changes.