About the New Mexico MVD written test
The New Mexico knowledge test (often searched as the New Mexico permit test or New Mexico DMV test) checks that new drivers understand road signs, traffic laws and safe driving habits before getting a learner's permit. The questions come from the official New Mexico driver handbook published by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division.
New Mexico applicants pass a vision test and a knowledge exam at an MVD office or through an approved driver education school, and teens must also be in or have completed an approved driver education program. A score of 70% or better is needed on the Class D written test.
New Mexico permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- A teen must be at least 15 years old to get an instructional permit.
- Passing score
- Class D and Class M written test scores must be 70% or better to pass.
- Vision screening
- A vision test is required for permit applicants.
- Permit fee
- $10.00 instructional permit application fee.
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.08% for drivers 21+; 0.02% for drivers under 21.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division before you test.
What New Mexico drivers should know
- School zones: 15 mph when a limit is posted.
- Give bicyclists at least five feet when passing.
- Provisional drivers may not drive from midnight to 5 a.m. without an exception.
- Do not park within 15 feet of a hydrant or 50 feet of a railroad crossing.
- A DWI conviction stays on your record for 25 years.
Topics covered in our New Mexico practice tests
- Road signs and signals: shapes, colors, pavement markings and traffic lights.
- Rules of the road: right-of-way, speed, turns, passing, parking and school zones.
- Safe driving: following distance, night and weather driving, distractions and emergencies.
- Alcohol and drugs: impaired driving, BAC and penalties.
- Sharing the road: pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and large trucks.
How to pass the New Mexico permit test
- Read the official New Mexico driver handbook, paying close attention to numbers (distances, speeds, BAC limits).
- Take Practice Test 1 in study mode and read every explanation.
- Work through Tests 2 to 5, then the topic tests for your weakest areas.
- Use the Exam Simulator and aim for 80% or higher on several attempts in a row.
- Bring the documents your state requires and book your test with the MVD.