Need to get a copy of your New Mexico driving record?
Don’t know where to obtain it?
You’ve come to the right place.
Here, we’re going to give you a complete guide on how to get a New Mexico driving record. We’re going to detail the steps on how to get it online, by phone, and in person.
On top of that, we’ll talk about types of NM driving records and how to improve them, as well as understand the point systems in the state.
So let’s begin!
Types of Driving Records in New Mexico
In New Mexico, you can get 2 types of driving records:
- A certified copy
- A non-certified copy
Regardless of which you choose, it will show the following information:
- Personal information (complete name, birthdate, a description of your physical appearance)
- Details of your license or permit (class, date of issue and expiration, endorsements or restrictions)
- 3-year history data (points, accidents, suspensions, citations, convictions, and accidents)
The main difference is that you typically get a non-certified copy if it’s for personal use, i.e. to check your points, your license status, etc. Employers and insurance agencies won’t accept it.
For official purposes, such as providing it to agencies or the court, a certified copy is required. This copy comes with a letter of certification from New Mexico’s MVD.
How to Get My Driving Record in New Mexico
You’ll be happy to know that there are 2 methods to obtaining your New Mexico driving record. This includes:
- Online
- By phone
- In Person
Let’s go through the steps of each one.
How to Get A New Mexico Driving Record Online
To be sure, obtaining your NM driving record online is the most convenient path.
Here’s how to get it online:
- Prepare the following information:
- Your complete name (as how it’s written on your driver’s license)
- Your birthdate
- Your Social Security Number’s last four digits
- Your driver’s license number
- Visit the MVD’s Online Driver History Records Service.
- Indicate whether you want a certified or non-certified copy.
- Provide the information the screen asks for and follow the prompts.
- Pay for your driving record using a credit card:
- Non-certified copy – $6.63
- Certified copy – $9.99
- View your NM driving record.
NOTE: If you got a certified copy, you have to wait for the documents to arrive via mail. This can take around 2 weeks.
How to Get A New Mexico Driving Record By Phone
If you want to talk to a representative instead, simply dial (888) 683-4363, request your driving record, state if you want a certified or non-certified copy, verify your identity, and wait for it to arrive via mail.
How to Get A New Mexico Driving Record In Person
What are the advantages of getting your New Mexico driving record in person?
Sure, it might not be as convenient as the online method, but it’s ideal if:
- You need your driving record immediately
- You don’t want to pay a fee (yes, it’s free!)
If this works for you, follow these steps:
- Download a copy of the MVD11260 form (Confidential Records Release).
NOTE: If you request someone else’s records, ensure the record owner signs the form. You must also notarize the form.
- Make an appointment to visit an MVD office.
NOTE: You can walk in, but scheduling can make your visit more efficient due to less wait time.
- Submit the MVD11260 form and show proof of identity.
- Receive your driving record.
It’s as easy as that — and it’s FREE!
How to Improve Your New Mexico Driving Record
Keeping your driving record clean comes with many advantages. Not only will you get lower insurance premiums, but you might also qualify for safe driver discounts.
Plus, those who plan to become professional drivers have a better chance of getting hired. And, even if you’re not leaning toward that direction, you’re more likely to keep your driving privileges.
However, keeping your record clean (or improving it) takes work. Remember, New Mexico doesn’t have a point reduction program, so once the MVD assesses these points against your license, they’ll remain there for 12 months.
So the next best thing is to avoid getting additional points. Here are some strategies to help you do that:
- Check your record regularly. Ensure that the information on your driving history is accurate. Inform the MVD immediately if you spot any errors.
- Review your knowledge about road rules in New Mexico. You will have to share the road with different vehicles and pedestrians. Knowing how to deal with them can help you avoid violations.
- Refamiliarize yourself with road signals, signs, and pavement markings. If you obey all these signals, signs, and markings, you won’t run into any problems.
- Attend a driver improvement course. Although it won’t reduce your points, you may get a new ticket dismissed. Besides, a refresher never hurts.
- Be aware of New Mexico’s point system. It’s a good idea to know how many points different moving violations add to your record.
Understanding the New Mexico Point System
Like many states, New Mexico tracks driving violations by assigning points to your license each time you have a conviction.
You can refer to the table below for a better picture of the various violations and their points.
| Points | Violations |
| 8 | Exceeding the posted speed limit by more than 26 mph |
| 6 | Passing a stopped school bus Reckless driving Drag racing |
| 5 | Exceeding the posted speed limit by 16 to 25 mph |
| 4 | Failure to yield the right of way to an emergency vehicle |
| 3 | Careless driving Disobeying a yield or stop sign Tailgating Making improper turns and passes Left of center Exceeding the posted speed limit by 6 to 15 mph |
| 2 | Operating a vehicle with defective equipment Failing to signal Violating the Child Restraint Law Violating the Seatbelt Law Driving an overloaded vehicle |
The MVD suspends your driver’s license if you have too many points on your license. However, the suspension’s duration varies depending on how many you accumulated within 12 months:
- 6 points: warning of possible penalties
- 7 to 12 points: 3-month license suspension
- 12 points: 12-month license suspension
The Wrap Up
So that was how to get a New Mexico driving record.
Thankfully, there are many methods you can choose from.
For complete convenience, you can request it online or call the MVD at (888) 683-4363.
Need your driving record straight away? Don’t want to pay any fees? Then choosing to obtain it in person is a good idea.
From there, you can take the steps to improve your driving record. Make sure you stay away from those points!