Learn about driving regulations and special initiatives aimed at keeping both senior drivers and New Mexico’s highways safe.
While the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) enforces a plethora of laws and regulations that apply to drivers of all ages and stages, the state imposes certain unique requirements and limits on senior drivers.
The state regulations of New Mexico are detailed in further depth below, although a handful of them concentrate on recognizing and dealing with elderly drivers who may have become risky.
New Mexico, in particular:
Drivers must renew their licenses in person every four years starting at the age of 67, while drivers 75 and above must renew their licenses in person yearly.
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New Mexico License Renewal Procedures for Senior Citizens
Drivers 67 and older who want to renew their licenses must follow special criteria.
Time limits: Drivers 79 and over must renew in person at a local MVD office every year. Those under the age of 79 may renew their driver’s license for four or eight years.
Renewal requires a vision exam. A free exam will be administered by MVD employees. If a more thorough examination is necessary, the driver may be required to be evaluated by an outside ophthalmologist or optometrist, who must write a Vision Report.
Written examination: Not usually necessary for renewal.
A road test is not usually necessary at the time of renewal.
License Restrictions That Might Exist
The MVD may impose limits or conditions on a driver’s license in order to keep both the driver and the roads safe. The most prevalent limitation for senior drivers is the need for corrective lenses or glasses.
Another typical condition that the MVD may impose in New Mexico is that you only drive during daytime hours. It also has extensive authority to impose “driving limitations suitable depending on the patient’s ailment or eyesight condition,” as determined by a qualified physician. Mechanical assistance on an automobile or prosthetic aids on the driver are examples of specific constraints.
How to Request a New Mexico Unsafe Driver Investigation
Unlike other states, New Mexico has no formal paperwork or processes in place for reporting drivers who have become potentially risky behind the wheel. If you have particular concerns about a certain driver, contact the local MVD office.
How to Restore a Driver’s License
The procedures for regaining a suspended or revoked license in New Mexico vary depending on the circumstances. Contact one of the MVD offices located around the state for information in an individual scenario.
How to Obtain Disabled Driver License Plates
Drivers with restricted mobility may be awarded disabled person license plates provided a qualified medical practitioner confirms the condition.
Placards and license plates are available for people who:
cannot go 100 feet without stopping to rest
have a serious heart disease or are severely restricted in their ability to walk owing to an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic ailment.
To receive a disability placard or plate, follow these steps:
Fill up and sign an Application for Mobility Restrictions (HP) License Plate.
Fill out the Physician Medical Statement & Certification section of the form with the help of a qualified physician.
Send the original application to the address on the form for the Special Services Section.