New Mexico CDL Study Guide
New Mexico issues commercial driver licenses through the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). The state follows federal CDL rules in its Commercial Driver's License Manual. You can drive a commercial vehicle inside New Mexico at 18. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
Key New Mexico numbers
- Minimum age (intrastate): 18
- Minimum age (interstate or hazmat): 21
- CLP hold before skills test: at least 14 days
- General Knowledge passing score: 80%
- General Knowledge test: ~50 questions
- Air Brakes test: ~25 questions (required if your vehicle has air brakes)
- Combination Vehicles test: ~20 questions (required for Class A)
Topics on the New Mexico General Knowledge test
- Vehicle inspection (pre-trip, en-route, post-trip)
- Driving safely (speed management, space management, hazard perception)
- Transporting cargo safely
- Air brakes (if your vehicle is air-braked)
- Combination vehicles (Class A)
If you fail a test
If you fail a CDL knowledge or skills test in New Mexico, you may schedule a retake at the MVD. Additional fees may apply. See the MVD CDL page for current retake details.
Frequently asked questions
How old do I need to be to get a CDL in New Mexico?
You must be at least 18 to drive a commercial vehicle inside New Mexico. You must be 21 to drive across state lines or carry hazardous materials.
How long must I hold my New Mexico CLP before the skills test?
You must hold your Commercial Learneru0027s Permit for at least 14 days before you can take the CDL skills test. The CLP is valid for 6 months.
How much does a New Mexico CDL cost?
The CLP is $10, a 4-year CDL is $18, and an 8-year CDL is $34. The hazmat endorsement adds $127.
Do I need to take Entry-Level Driver Training in New Mexico?
Yes. If you are getting your first Class A or B CDL, or your first H, P, or S endorsement, you must complete federal ELDT from an FMCSA-registered provider.
Do I need a DOT medical card to get a New Mexico CDL?
Yes. You must complete a DOT medical exam and submit your Medical Examineru0027s Certificate to the MVD.
What is the official New Mexico CDL manual?
The New Mexico Commercial Driveru0027s License Manual is the official study guide. You can download it free from mvd.newmexico.gov.
Free practice
Start a New Mexico General Knowledge quiz →
Sources: New Mexico CDL Manual PDF (combined, March 2025) MVD Commercial Driveru0027s Licenses (CDL) page MVD CDL Fee FAQ MVD Driver License Manuals download page