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All about permit practice tests and CDL driver's licence in New Mexico

Getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in New Mexico involves several steps, but once you know the process, it’s manageable. Whether you're looking to drive trucks across the state or even across the country, this guide will walk you through what it takes to get your CDL in New Mexico, in simple and clear language.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you can apply for a CDL, you need to meet these basic qualifications:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial vehicle within New Mexico (intrastate). If you want to drive across state lines (interstate), you must be at least 21 years old.
• Driver’s License: You need to already have a valid New Mexico Class D (standard) driver’s license.
• Medical Requirements: You’ll need to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam. This exam checks if you're physically fit to drive a commercial vehicle. You’ll get a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (also known as a DOT medical card), which you need to carry with you.

Step 2: Get Your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)

Before you can get your full CDL, you need to hold a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days. Here’s how to get it:

1. Study the CDL Manual: The New Mexico CDL Manual is essential. It covers the rules, regulations, and driving practices you'll need to know for both the written test and driving skills test.
2. Pass the Written Knowledge Tests: You’ll need to pass several knowledge tests based on the type of CDL and any endorsements you want (such as HazMat, Passenger, or Tanker). The tests are multiple choice and cover things like general trucking knowledge, air brakes, and specific cargo handling.
3. Visit the MVD: Go to your local New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office to apply for the CLP. You’ll need to bring:
   • Your current New Mexico driver’s license.
   • Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful residency (like a passport or birth certificate).
   • Your Social Security number.
   • Your DOT medical card.
   • Payment for the CLP fee (usually around $10-$20).

Once you have your CLP, you can start practicing driving a commercial vehicle, but only with a licensed CDL holder in the vehicle with you. The permit is valid for 180 days.

Step 3: Prepare for the CDL Skills Test

During the 14-day period that you hold your CLP, you should practice the necessary driving skills. The skills test is divided into three parts:

• Pre-trip Inspection: You’ll need to show you can inspect a commercial vehicle and identify safety issues before hitting the road.
• Basic Vehicle Control: This part involves testing your ability to control the truck, including backing up, making turns, and parking.
• On-Road Driving: Here, you'll drive the vehicle on public roads, demonstrating your ability to handle it in real traffic conditions.

Step 4: Take the CDL Skills Test

After holding your CLP for at least 14 days, you can schedule your CDL skills test. These tests are usually administered at an MVD-approved testing site.

When you go for your skills test, bring:

• Your CLP.
• Your New Mexico driver’s license.
• Your medical card.
• Proof of insurance for the vehicle you’ll be testing in (you’ll need access to a commercial vehicle appropriate for the class of CDL you’re testing for).

If you pass the test, congratulations! You’re now eligible to receive your CDL.

Step 5: Get Your CDL

After you’ve passed the skills test, return to the MVD with the necessary documents, including proof that you passed your skills test. You’ll pay the CDL licensing fee, which usually ranges from $18 to $34 depending on the license’s length and any endorsements you added.

CDL Endorsements

If you plan to drive specific types of vehicles or carry certain kinds of cargo, you’ll need additional endorsements on your CDL. Some common endorsements include:

• Hazardous Materials (HazMat): Requires passing a background check and a specific knowledge test.
• Passenger (P): For buses or vehicles designed to carry more than 15 passengers.
• Tanker (N): If you plan to drive vehicles that transport liquids.

Each endorsement may require additional written or skills tests, so study carefully.

CDL Restrictions

There are some restrictions that might be placed on your CDL depending on what kind of vehicle you use for the skills test. For example, if you take the test in a vehicle without air brakes, you’ll have an “L” restriction on your CDL, meaning you can't drive vehicles with air brakes.

Exceptions and Special Cases

• Military CDL Waiver: If you’ve driven heavy-duty vehicles in the military within the last year, you may be eligible for a waiver of the skills test.
• Farmers and Emergency Vehicles: Some exceptions are available for farm vehicle drivers and emergency responders, allowing them to operate commercial vehicles under certain conditions without needing a full CDL.

Renewing Your CDL

CDLs in New Mexico are valid for 4 or 8 years, depending on your choice. You’ll need to renew it before it expires and maintain a valid DOT medical card.

Getting your CDL in New Mexico involves a clear step-by-step process: studying for the knowledge tests, practicing for the skills test, and ensuring you meet all requirements like medical certifications. Whether you’re aiming to drive trucks within the state or across the country, New Mexico makes it easy to get started with the right preparation. Good luck!