New Mexico Permit Practice Test — Written Test, Free to Start

Free 10-question New Mexico permit practice test, then 30-question practice tests, each question cited to the New Mexico Driver Manual.

The exam

This practice test is 30 questions, and 21 correct is a pass. Everything on it comes out of New Mexico Driver Manual. Officially it is the knowledge test; most people call it the written test, or the permit test.

New Mexico does not publish how many questions its knowledge test asks. This practice test asks 30, and passes at the 70% set by New Mexico’s own rules (the MVD Procedures Manual, Chapter 11, at mvd.newmexico.gov).

How this works

Most practice tests hand you a bank of questions and leave the manual somewhere else. This one puts them together.

You read one law and the reason behind it, then answer a question on that law while it is still fresh. Get it right and you move on; get it wrong and you have found the gap while it is cheap to fix, not on the morning of the exam.

Learning one rule at a time, and proving it immediately, is what turns a manual you skimmed into something you actually know — and it makes studying feel like getting somewhere rather than like waiting to find out.

Ask a question about New Mexico road law

Easier than searching the manual: ask in your own words — how far from a fire hydrant you may park, when you must stop for a school bus — and the answer comes from New Mexico Driver Manual or New Mexico’s code, with the page or the section it is in. When neither says, the answer says so rather than guess. Or tick Nationwide and compare every state on one question.

Ask a question

New Mexico driving law, answered

New Mexico driving questions, answered

What it costs

  • One payment, once — not a subscription. Nothing renews and there is nothing to cancel, for an exam you sit one time.
  • Free to start: a 10-question test and the first section of cards. No sign-up and no account.
  • Paying opens the rest of the cards, unlimited full-length practice tests, and retests built from exactly the questions you got wrong.
  • Every level up to Prepared — 3 tests passed in a row.
  • Do the work, fail the real exam, and we refund you.

What New Mexico tests

142 concepts, 539 separate rules. Each one is a page of its own.

Questions from the New Mexico test

Who in New Mexico must go through the graduated driver license system?

Drivers under the age of 18. New drivers crash the most. The steps let teens gain skill a bit at a time before they drive with no limits. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.1: “If you are under the age of 18, you must participate in the graduated driver license system until you meet the requirements for an unrestricted license.”

How old must the licensed driver supervising a permit holder be?

21 years old. A grown driver with years behind the wheel can spot danger you have not learned to see yet. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.1: “A permit allows you to operate a motor vehicle when supervised by another driver who is at least 21 years of age and who is licensed to drive that type of vehicle.”

During which hours may a provisional licensee not drive, unless an exception applies?

Midnight to 5:00 a.m.. Late at night it is dark, drivers are tired and more of them have been drinking, so teen crashes rise. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.2: “The driver may not operate a motor vehicle upon public highways between the hours of midnight and 5:00 AM.”

Which of these lets a provisional licensee drive during curfew hours?

Having a licensed driver aged 21 or older along. An adult driver next to you can help you through the dark and tired hours of the night. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.2: “Accompanied by a licensed driver twenty-one years or older.”

How long must you have held a provisional license before applying for an unrestricted license?

12 months. A full year of driving alone with limits shows you can handle the road before the limits come off. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.2: “The driver must have held a provisional license for the 12- month period immediately preceding the date of application for a driver license.”

How long is a New Mexico driver license valid?

4 or 8 years. Knowing how long it lasts helps you renew on time so you are never driving on an old license. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.2: “Your driver license is valid for either 4 or 8 years.”

Which conviction can cost you your driver license?

Driving under the influence of drugs. A driver who is drunk or high is a danger to everyone on the road, so the state can take the license. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.2: “A conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,”

Is it legal in New Mexico to drive without wearing a safety belt?

No, it is against the law. A belt keeps you in your seat in a crash, so you are far less likely to be hurt or killed. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.3: “In the State of New Mexico, it is illegal to drive without wearing safety belts.”

Children under what age must wear proper safety restraints while the vehicle is moving?

Under 12. Adult belts do not fit small bodies well, so kids need the right belt or seat for their size. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.3: “The law requires that all children under the age of 12 wear appropriate safety restraints while the vehicle is in motion.”

Who besides signals and signs can direct traffic that you must obey?

Police, highway workers and crossing guards. These people take charge when lights and signs cannot handle what is going on, like a crash or a school crossing. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.3: “Traffic control also can be provided by law enforcement, highway personnel or school crossing guards.”

A steady green light is showing. Who must you still yield to?

Emergency vehicles and others as the law says. Green lets you go, but it does not make the road yours; a fire truck or ambulance still comes first. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.4: “You must yield to emergency vehicles and others as required by law.”

A steady yellow light comes on before you reach the intersection. What should you do?

Stop if it is safe to do so. Yellow warns that cross traffic is about to get its turn, and slamming the brakes is not always safe. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.4: “A steady YELLOW traffic light means the traffic light is about to change to red.”

At a steady red light, when may you go straight ahead?

Once it turns green and crossing traffic clears. Cross traffic has the green, and going early puts you right in the path of moving cars. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.4: “You must wait until the traffic light turns green and there is no crossing traffic before you may move ahead.”

What color and shape are most warning signs?

Yellow with black symbols, diamond shaped. Knowing the look of a warning sign lets you spot danger ahead before you can read the words. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.4: “These signs are usually yellow with black lettering or symbols and most are diamond shaped.”

What do warning signs tell you to do?

Slow down and be ready to stop. A hazard such as a sharp curve or a crossing is ahead, and you need time to react to it. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.4: “These signs warn you to slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary.”

What does this sign warn you about?

A road crosses yours ahead. Cars may pull out from the side road, so slow down and watch both ways as you near it. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.5: “Cross Road”

A train is coming toward the crossing ahead of you. What should you do?

Wait for the train to pass. Trains are huge and can need a mile to stop, so a race you lose by a second is deadly. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.5: “Never try to beat a train across the tracks.”

At a railroad crossing, the side-by-side lights are flashing. What must you do?

Stop before the crossing. The lights flash because a train is coming, and it may be closer than you think. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.6: “When the lights are flashing, you must stop.”

How far from a railroad crossing must a school bus stop before crossing?

At least 15 feet. These vehicles carry many people or fuel that could explode, so a crash with a train would be a disaster. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.6: “School buses, taxis and other vehicles for hire that carry passengers and trucks that transport explosives, gasoline or other dangerous materials must stop at least 15 feet from a railroad crossing before proceeding.”

What does this sign mean?

No left turn. A left turn here would cross traffic in a spot where it is not safe, so you must go another way. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.6: “These signs prohibit certain actions, i.e., no left turn, no right turn, no U-turn, etc.”

What must you do at a stop sign?

Come to a full stop. Cross traffic will not stop for you here, so rolling through can lead to a side crash. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.7: “You must come to a full stop at a stop sign or stop line, if one is present.”

When should you drive at the maximum posted speed limit?

Only in ideal driving conditions. The posted limit assumes a dry road and a clear view; rain, ice or fog make that speed too fast. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.6: “The maximum limit should be driven only in ideal driving conditions and you must reduce your speed when conditions require it.”

What do solid lines along the side of the road show?

Where the road's edge is. At night or in rain the edge line keeps you from drifting off the road onto the shoulder. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.8: “Solid lines along the side of the road show you where the edge of the road is located.”

When a sign or signal tells you to stop, where must you stop?

Before you reach the stop line or crosswalk. Stopping past the line puts your car where people walk or where cross traffic turns. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.8: “When required to stop because of a sign or signal, you must stop before your vehicle reaches the stop line or crosswalk.”

What do yellow lines on the road separate?

Traffic going opposite directions. Yellow tells you the traffic on the other side is coming toward you, so crossing it is risky. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.8: “Lines separating traffic moving in opposite directions are yellow.”

How are reversible lanes usually marked?

Double-dashed yellow lines. A lane that flips direction can put you face to face with oncoming cars, so you need to spot one by its markings before you drive in it. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.9: “These lanes are usually marked by double-dashed yellow lines.”

What symbol often marks a lane reserved for special vehicles?

A white diamond. The diamond tells you at a glance that the lane is set aside for special vehicles, so you do not drift into it by mistake. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.9: “Reserved lanes are marked by signs stating that the lane is reserved for special use and often have a white diamond posted at the side of the road or painted on the road surface.”

What is a shared center lane for?

Left turns and allowed U-turns. It gives turning cars a place to wait out of the way, so traffic behind them can keep moving. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.9: “These center lanes are reserved for making left turns (or U-turns when they are permitted) but can be used by vehicles traveling in both directions.”

When may you back up in a travel lane?

Only to parallel park. Drivers do not expect a car to roll backward toward them and may not see it until it is too late to stop. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.10: “General driving—Never back a vehicle in any travel lane except to parallel park.”

On a multi-lane road, which lane is meant for passing?

The left-most lane. If you pass on the right, the other driver may not see you and could change lanes right in front of you. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.10: “Passing—On multi-lane roads, the left-most lane is intended to be used for passing slower vehicles.”

With no lane markings, which lane should you turn into?

The lane closest to the one you came from. Turning this way crosses the fewest lanes of traffic, which gives you fewer chances to cut someone off. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.10: “Turning—Where there are no signs or lane markings to control turning, you should turn from the lane that is closest to the direction you want to go and turn into the lane closest to the one you came from.”

What does the right-of-way law do?

It says which driver has to yield. No driver can claim a turn to go first, so you must still do all you can to avoid a crash even when the other driver should yield. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.11: “The law says who must yield the right of way; it does not give anyone the right-of-way.”

You are leaving a parking lot and must cross a sidewalk. Who goes first?

Pedestrians on the sidewalk. People on a sidewalk do not expect a car to cross their path, so you must let them pass first. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.11: “Drivers crossing a sidewalk entering or exiting a driveway, alley or parking lot must yield to pedestrians.”

You are turning left and a car is coming straight toward you. Who must yield?

You must yield. A left turn cuts across the path of oncoming cars, so the turning driver is the one who must wait. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.11: “Drivers turning left must yield to oncoming vehicles going straight-ahead.”

When must you yield to an ambulance?

When it uses a siren or flashing light. Emergency crews are racing to save lives, and every second they lose waiting for you can matter. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.12: “You must yield the right-of-way to a police vehicle, fire engine, ambulance or other emergency vehicle using a siren, air horn or a red or blue flashing light.”

A school bus is stopped on the other side of an undivided road with its red lights flashing. What must you do?

Stop for the bus. Children getting on or off the bus may run across the road without looking for cars. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.12: “You must stop for a school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing whether it is on your side of the road, the opposite side of the road or at an intersection you are approaching.”

On a road signed one-way, which way may you drive?

Only the way the sign shows. Every car on a one-way road is going the same way, so driving the wrong way means meeting traffic head on. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.12: “You may only drive on these roads in the direction the sign tells you to drive.”

What is the maximum speed in a posted school zone?

15 mph. Children near schools can dart into the road, and at a low speed you can stop in time. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.12: “15 mph within a school zone, with a posted speed limit”

No minimum speed is posted. How slow may you drive?

Not so slow you block normal traffic. A car going far slower than everyone else makes drivers brake hard or pass, which leads to crashes. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.12: “If no minimum is posted, drive so that you do not interfere with regular traffic flow.”

What two things should be true of any place you park?

It is clear of traffic and easy to see. A parked car that sticks into the road or sits out of sight can be hit by drivers who do not see it in time. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.13: “Whenever you park, be sure it is in a place that is (1) far enough from any travel lane to avoid interfering with traffic and (2) visible to vehicles approaching from either direction.”

How close to a stop sign may you park?

No closer than 30 feet. A parked car near a sign or signal can hide it from drivers who need to see it. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.13: “within 30 ft. of a traffic signal, stop sign or yield sign,”

What does a white-painted curb mean?

Only short stops are allowed. White curbs keep a spot free for quick pick-ups, so cars do not sit there for long. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.14: “white—indicates that only short stops are permitted,”

Which of these violations carries points?

Failing to wear a seat belt. Points add up with each ticket, so a pattern of unsafe driving can cost you your license. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.14: “Many common traffic violations (speeding, failure to wear seat belts, etc.) carry "points".”

What should you check before you start the vehicle?

The parking brake is on. If the brake is off when the engine catches, the car can roll before you are ready to drive it. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.14: “Make sure the parking brake is on before you start the vehicle.”

What can happen if you try to start too fast, especially on a slippery road?

The drive wheels can spin and slide. Wheels that spin lose their grip, so a hard start on ice or wet roads can send the car sliding. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.14: “Trying to start too fast can cause the drive wheels to spin, particularly on slippery surfaces and cause the vehicle to slide.”

Picturing the steering wheel as a clock face, which hand position does the manual give for balanced control?

10 o'clock and 2 o'clock. Hands spread evenly on both sides of the wheel let you turn it smoothly and hold it steady. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.14: “One balanced position for steering control is at the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions.”

Where should you look to steer smoothly and safely?

Well down the road and on both sides. If you spot a turn or a hazard early, you can steer around it calmly instead of jerking the wheel. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.15: “Look well down the road and on both sides of the road, not at the road just in front of your vehicle.”

Why does the manual tell you to check your speedometer often?

People are poor at judging their own speed. Your sense of speed fools you, so the gauge is the only true number you have. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.15: “People are not very good at judging how fast they are going.”

Besides a skid, what danger does braking quickly create?

Drivers behind may not stop in time. A sudden stop leaves the car behind you little room, and it can also put your own car into a skid. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.15: “You also make it harder for drivers behind you to stop without hitting you.”

How far ahead of their vehicle do safer drivers tend to look?

At least 10 seconds. Ten seconds of warning is enough time to slow down or change lanes before you reach a problem. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.15: “Safer drivers tend to look at least 10 seconds ahead of their vehicle.”

Where is it especially important to look to the sides?

At intersections and rail crossings. Cars, people and trains can cross your path from the side at these places with little warning. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.15: “This is especially true at intersections and railroad crossings.”

Which of these counts as an intersection under the manual?

A parking lot entrance. A car can pull out of a driveway just like it can from a cross street, so you watch both the same way. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.16: “Intersections are any place where traffic merges or crosses.”

You often use a railroad crossing and have never seen a train there. What should you do?

Slow down and look up and down the tracks. Trains do not keep to a schedule you know, and a crossing that is always empty can have a train today. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.16: “Do not assume that a train is not coming even if you have never seen one at that crossing before.”

When do you need to check traffic behind you more often?

When traffic is heavy. In thick traffic, cars close in on you faster, so you need to know who is back there. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.16: “You need to check more often when traffic is heavy.”

How do you check a blind spot before changing lanes?

Turn your head and look. Mirrors leave gaps beside and behind you, so a car can hide there until you look over your shoulder. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.17: “You must turn your head and look to see vehicles in your blind spot.”

Why should you check behind your vehicle before you get in to back up?

Small children cannot be seen from the seat. A small child behind the car is out of sight from inside, so the only safe look is the one you take on foot. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.17: “Children or small objects cannot be seen from the driver’s seat.”

How much farther do high beams let you see than low beams?

About twice as far. At night you can only stop for what you can see, and high beams show you much more of the road. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.18: “High beams let you see twice as far as low beams.”

You turn on your windshield wipers. What else should you turn on?

Your headlights. In rain or snow other drivers have trouble seeing your car, and lights make it stand out. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.18: “Remember, if you turn on your wipers, turn on your headlights.”

When there is no immediate danger, how should you use your horn?

A light tap on the horn. A soft tap gets attention without scaring people into a sudden, risky move. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.18: “If there is no immediate danger, a light tap on the horn should be all you need.”

Your car breaks down on a highway. What should you try to do first?

Get it off the road, away from traffic. A stalled car in a lane is easy to hit, since drivers often do not see it until too late. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.19: “Get your vehicle off the road and away from traffic if at all possible”

You are driving beside and slightly behind another car. What should you do?

Speed up or drop back. Just behind another car's side is where its driver cannot see you, so they may move right into you. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.19: “Either speed up or drop back so the other driver can see your vehicle more easily.”

How far before a turn should you signal?

At least 100 feet. One hundred feet of warning gives the drivers around you time to slow down or plan for your turn. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.19: “Signal at least 100 feet before you make your turn.”

What lets drivers behind you know that you are slowing down?

Your brake lights. A driver behind you needs the brake lights as early warning to stop in time. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.20: “Your brake lights let people know that you are slowing down.”

What is the only contact your vehicle has with the road?

The tires. Every turn and every stop depends on that small patch of rubber gripping the road. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.20: “The only contact your vehicle has with the road is through the tires.”

When should you slow down for a curve?

Before you enter the curve. In a curve the tires are already working hard to turn the car, and braking there can make them lose grip. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.20: “Always slow down before you enter the curve so you do not have to brake in the curve.”

When should you slow down for rain, snow or sleet?

At the first sign of it. Roads get slick right away, often before you notice, so slowing early keeps your tires gripping. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.20: “Slow down at the first sign of rain, snow or sleet.”

On a cold, wet day, which part of the road is likely to be icy?

Shady spots on the road. Shade keeps the sun off the road, so ice there can linger after the rest of the road is clear. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.20: “On cold, wet days shady spots can be icy.”

On a wet road, up to about what speed do most tires keep good traction?

About 35 mph. Above that speed the tires begin to ride up on the water and lose their grip. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.20: “When it is raining or the road is wet, most tires have good traction up to about 35 mph.”

In which part of New Mexico should you watch for elk?

The western three-quarters. Elk are big enough to wreck a car, so knowing where they live tells you where to watch. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.21: “Watch for elk in the western three-quarters of the state.”

What do animal crossing signs tell you?

Cars have hit wildlife there before. Animals tend to cross in the same places, so a past crash there means more animals may cross. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.21: “These signs warn you that vehicles have hit wildlife in this area before.”

When are many animals most active near roads?

At dawn and dusk. These are the hours when animals move most and when light is poorest for you to see them. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.21: “Be especially watchful for wildlife at dawn, dusk, and in the first few hours after darkness falls.”

Why is driving faster than the flow of traffic risky?

Each pass is a chance to crash. Every pass puts you near a car that could change lanes, or an oncoming car on a two-lane road. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.21: “Each time you pass someone, there is a chance for a collision.”

At what speed should you try to merge onto a highway?

The same speed traffic is moving. Joining at the same speed lets you slip into a gap without making others brake. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.21: “When you merge with traffic, try to enter at the same speed that traffic is moving.”

When should you start to slow down to leave a highway with exit ramps?

Once you are on the exit ramp. Slowing on the main road surprises drivers behind you who are still at full speed. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.22: “If the road you are traveling has exit ramps, do not slow down until you move onto the exit ramp.”

Which vehicles can lose speed on long or steep hills?

Big trucks and underpowered cars. A truck crawling up a hill can appear in front of you sooner than you expect. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.22: “Watch for large trucks and small underpowered cars on steep grades or when they are entering traffic.”

Why should you lower your speed where people or traffic gather?

To have time to react in a crowded space. In a crowded space things happen close to you, and less speed buys you time to respond. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.22: “You need to lower your speed to have time to react in a crowded space.”

On dry pavement at 50 mph, about how far can it take to react and stop your vehicle?

400 feet. Most people think a car stops much faster than it does. At highway speed you travel a whole city block before you are stopped. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.22: “At 50 mph, it can take about 400 feet to react to something you see and bring your vehicle to a stop.”

About how far ahead do your headlights let you see at night?

400 feet. At night you can only stop for what your lights show you. Going faster means a deer or a stalled car shows up too late. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.23: “headlights will let you see about 400 feet ahead.”

Using the sight distance rule, you count to a fixed object as far ahead as you can see. How many seconds should you be able to count before you reach it?

4 seconds. The count checks whether you can see far enough ahead to stop in time. Reaching the object early means you are outrunning your view. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.23: “If you reach the object before you finish saying “four-one-thousand,” you need to slow down.”

What causes rear-end crashes, according to the manual?

Following too closely to stop when the car ahead suddenly stops. If the car ahead brakes hard and you are too close, there is no time left to stop. That is how most rear-end crashes happen. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.23: “They are caused from drivers following too closely to be able to stop before hitting the vehicle ahead when it suddenly stops.”

On a slippery road, what following distance may you need to be safe?

4 seconds. On ice, snow or wet roads your tires grip less, so it takes longer to stop and you need more room ahead. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.24: “For example, you may need a four second following distance to be safe; (1) on slippery roads,”

What can you do to help the driver behind you keep a safe distance?

Keep a steady speed and signal early before you slow or turn. The driver behind you cannot see what you plan to do. A steady speed and an early signal give them time to slow down. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.24: “However, you can help keep the driver at a safe distance by keeping a steady speed and signaling in advance when you have to slow down or turn.”

Who does the manual say you should give extra space to the side, especially?

Pedestrians and bicycles, especially children. Children on foot or on bikes can swerve or step out without looking, so they need a wider berth than adults. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.24: “Give extra space to pedestrians or bicycles, especially children.”

About how big a gap do you need to merge with other traffic?

4 seconds. Squeezing into a short gap leaves no time for you or the car behind you to stop if traffic slows. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.24: “Anytime you want to merge with other traffic, you need a gap of about four seconds.”

When you pull out to enter traffic, how much space do you need?

Enough to turn and then get up to speed. A car pulling out slowly into fast traffic gets hit from behind if the gap only fits the turn. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.24: “When you enter traffic, you need enough space to first turn and then to get up to speed.”

As a general rule, how many vehicles should you pass at a time?

Only one. Passing a line of cars takes far more time and road than most drivers guess, and an oncoming car can arrive first. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.24: “As a general rule only pass one vehicle at a time.”

What rights do bicycle riders on the road have compared with car drivers?

The same rights and responsibilities. A bike is a vehicle on the road, so the rider gets the same place in traffic and must follow the same rules. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.25: “Bicycle drivers on roads have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of cars.”

What equipment does the manual say a bicycle needs when ridden at night?

A bright headlight and a good rear reflector. At night a bike without a light is almost invisible to drivers. A headlight and reflector let cars see the rider in time. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.26: “Obey all traffic signals, laws and signs, just as if driving a car, including night-time use of a bright headlight and good, rear reflector.”

What are sharrows?

Shared lane pavement markings. On a narrow road a car cannot pass a bike in the same lane safely. The marking tells everyone the lane is shared. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.26: ““Sharrows” are “shared lane pavement markings.””

About how far could a large truck going 55 mph take to stop?

800 feet. A loaded truck is very heavy and needs about twice the road to stop, so it cannot halt for a car that cuts in. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.27: “But a large truck could take almost 800 feet to stop.”

A truck ahead of you moves left before a corner. What might it be about to do?

Swing wide to make a right turn. A truck may move left before it turns right. A car that slips into that gap can be crushed when the truck turns. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.27: “They often swing wide to make a right turn.”

What is the No Zone around a large truck?

The areas the truck driver cannot see. If the trucker swerves to miss a hazard, a car hidden in a blind spot is right where the truck goes. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.27: “These are called their “blind spots” or the “NO ZONE.””

What vision score must you reach on the New Mexico license vision test?

20/40. Signs, people and cars must look clear from far enough away for you to react in time. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.28: “This test measures that you have at least 20/40 vision in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses.”

Your eye doctor says you need glasses to drive. When must you wear them?

Every time you drive. Without them your sight drops below what you need to spot danger in time, day or night. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.28: “If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses for driving, remember to always wear them when you drive.”

What does good side vision let you do while driving?

Spot trouble beside you as you look ahead. A car drifting into your lane or a child by the curb often shows up first at the edge of your sight. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.28: “This lets you spot vehicles and other potential trouble on either side of you while you look ahead.”

How does being tired affect your driving?

You see less well and decide more slowly. A tired brain is slow to notice a braking car and slow to choose what to do about it. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.28: “You do not see as well, nor are you as alert.”

About what share of deadly traffic crashes involve alcohol?

About 40%. Drinking drivers cause a huge share of road deaths, so this one choice saves many lives. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.28: “Alcohol is involved in about 40% of the traffic crashes in which someone is killed.”

About how long does alcohol take to reach your brain?

20 to 40 minutes. Alcohol starts working soon after a drink, so you may be impaired before you feel it. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.29: “It reaches your brain in 20 to 40 minutes.”

How much 80-proof liquor counts as one drink?

1 1/2 oz. Knowing what one drink is helps you see that a strong mixed drink can count as several. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.29: “An alcohol drink is 1 1/2 oz. of 80-proof liquor (one shot glass) straight or with a mixer,”

About how long does your body take to get rid of 1 drink?

About 1 hour. Four drinks take about four hours to leave your body, no matter how you feel. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.29: “Your body gets rid of one alcoholic drink per hour.”

How old must you be to buy or have alcohol in New Mexico?

21 years old. Young drivers are new to both driving and drinking, and mixing the two kills many teens. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.29: “You are not allowed to buy alcohol, consume alcohol or be in possession of alcohol unless you are 21 years of age.”

At what BAC can any driver in New Mexico be arrested for drinking and driving?

.08% or more. At .08 most people's judgment and control are badly off, so the law draws a line there for all drivers. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.29: “You can be arrested for driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or more.”

For how long can you lose your license for refusing an officer's BAC test?

1 year. Saying no to the test does not get you out of trouble; it costs you your license by itself. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.29: “If a police or traffic officer asks you to take a BAC test and refuse to do so, you can lose your driver license for one year.”

Which must a driver with a first DWI conviction install on the vehicle?

An ignition interlock device. The device checks your breath before the car will start, so a drinking driver cannot drive off. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.29: “You will also be ordered to treatment and to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle.”

Why can a cold or allergy medicine be risky before driving?

It can make you drowsy. Medicine you can buy at any store can slow you down as much as a drink. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.29: “Drugs taken for headaches, colds, hay fever or other allergies or those to calm nerves can make a person drowsy and affect their driving.”

You have a bad cold and need to go to the store. What does the manual suggest?

Let someone else drive you. Even a cough or a stiff neck can pull your eyes or hands away at the wrong time. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.30: “If you are not feeling well and need to go somewhere, let someone else drive.”

You just had a fight and are very angry. What should you do before driving?

Wait until you have calmed down. Anger makes people take chances and tailgate, which leads straight to crashes. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.30: “If you are angry or excited, give yourself time to cool off.”

Which phone activity does the manual call a dangerous distraction?

Even just talking on the phone. A phone call pulls your mind off the road even when your eyes stay on it. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.30: “Dialing, or even just talking on a cell phone, can be a dangerous distraction from safe driving.”

What greatly lowers the chance your car will fail while driving?

Following its maintenance schedule. Worn brakes and old tires usually fail slowly, and regular checks catch them first. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.31: “You should follow the recommended maintenance schedule listed in the vehicle owner’s manual.”

Your brakes suddenly stop working. What should you try first?

Pump the pedal several times. Pumping can build back enough pressure to stop, and it is the quickest thing to try. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.31: “Pump the brake pedal several times.”

A front tire blows out. What should you do with the steering wheel?

Hold it tightly and keep straight. A blown tire yanks the car to one side, and a firm grip keeps you in your lane. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.31: “Hold the steering wheel tightly and keep the vehicle going straight.”

Your engine dies while driving. What happens to the steering?

It is harder to turn but still works. Knowing the wheel still turns keeps you from panicking and lets you steer off the road. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.31: “Be aware that the steering may be difficult to turn, but you can turn it.”

Your headlights suddenly go out. What should you try first?

Work the headlight switch a few times. A loose switch is a common cause, and working it may bring the lights right back. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.31: “Try the headlight switch a few times.”

Your gas pedal sticks and the car keeps speeding up. What do you do?

Shift quickly into neutral. Neutral cuts the engine off from the wheels, so the car stops speeding up. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.31: “Quickly shift to neutral.”

What are the three options for avoiding a collision?

Stop, turn or speed up. Many drivers freeze when a crash looks likely, so knowing your choices ahead of time helps you act. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.32: “In avoiding a collision, drivers have three options: stop, turn or speed up.”

Your car has ABS and you must stop quickly. How do you brake?

Press hard and keep pressing. ABS keeps the wheels from locking, but it can do that only while you hold the pedal down. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.32: “Press on the brake pedal as hard as you can and keep pressing on it.”

Which is usually quicker: turning or stopping your car?

Turning is usually quicker. When a car pulls out close ahead, a quick steer can miss it when the brakes could not. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.32: “In most cases, you can turn the vehicle quicker than you can stop it.”

When might speeding up be the best way to avoid a crash?

A car is about to hit you from behind. If the danger is coming from behind and the road ahead is clear, moving forward gets you out of its path. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.32: “This may happen when another vehicle is about to hit you from the side or from behind and there is room to the front of you to get out of danger.”

What does the manual say causes skids?

Driving too fast for conditions. Wet, icy or snowy roads give less grip, so the safe speed is lower than the posted one. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.33: “Skids are caused by drivers traveling too fast for conditions.”

What is the most important thing you can do to lessen injuries in a crash?

Wear your lap and shoulder belts. Belts hold you in place so your body does not hit the wheel, the glass or the road. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.33: “The most important thing you can do is to use your lap and shoulder belts.”

You drive past a crash where police and an ambulance are already working. What should you do?

Keep moving and watch for people. Extra cars stopping at a crash cause more crashes and slow down the rescue. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.33: “Do not stop at an accident unless you are involved or if emergency help has not yet arrived.”

You are in a minor crash. What does the law require of you?

Stop your vehicle at the scene. Driving away leaves hurt people without help and the other driver without your details. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.34: “If you are involved in an accident you must stop.”

Someone is hurt in a crash. What should you make sure of first?

That police and medics are called. Trained help with the right gear is the best chance a badly hurt person has. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.34: “Make sure the police and emergency medical or rescue squad have been called.”

Whose names and addresses should you get after a crash?

All people involved and any witnesses. Witnesses can tell what happened later, when drivers disagree about who was at fault. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.34: “Get the names and addresses of all people involved in the accident and any witnesses, including injured persons.”

Who must have a motor vehicle liability insurance policy in New Mexico?

Everyone who drives a motor vehicle. If you cause a crash, insurance pays the other people's bills so they are not left with them. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.34: “Everyone who operates a motor vehicle in New Mexico must have a motor vehicle liability insurance policy.”

What is New Mexico's minimum coverage for injury to or death of one person in one accident?

$25,000. One badly hurt person can run up huge hospital bills, and this is the least your policy must pay. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.35: “$25,000 Bodily injury to or death of one person in any on accident.”

Where in the lane should a motorcyclist ride while getting ready to pass?

In the left portion of the lane. From the left side of the lane the rider can see farther up the road, and the driver ahead can see the bike in the mirror. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.35: “Ride in the left portion of the lane at a safe following distance to increase your line of sight and make you more visible.”

Why should a rider avoid riding right next to a car in the next lane?

The rider may be in the car's blind spot. A driver who cannot see the bike may change lanes right into it with no warning at all. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.35: “You might be in the blind spot of a car in the next lane, which could switch into your lane without warning.”

How should a rider use the front and rear brakes to stop?

Use both at the same time. Using one brake alone takes longer to stop, and that extra distance can mean hitting what is ahead. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.35: “Your motorcycle has two brakes: one each for the front and rear wheel.”

Where in the lane should a rider stay when passing a row of parked cars?

Toward the left of the lane. Car doors can swing open and people can step out from between cars, and the extra space keeps the rider clear of them. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.36: “When passing parked cars, stay toward the left of your lane.”

How much lane space does a motorcycle need to operate safely?

A full lane. A bike squeezed into part of a lane has no room to dodge a door, a turn or a hand out a window. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.36: “Cars and motorcycles need a full lane to operate safely.”

Is there one lane position a rider should use at all times?

No, there is no single best one. The right spot changes with traffic and the road, so a rider keeps picking the place with the best view and most room. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.36: “In general, there is no single best position for riders to be seen and to maintain a space cushion around the cycle.”

Why must a rider make sure the turn signal is off after a turn?

A driver may think the bike will turn again. A blinker left on makes a driver think the bike will turn again, and that driver may pull right into its path. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.37: “Once you turn, make sure your signal is off or a driver may pull directly into your path, think you plan to turn again.”

Under New Mexico law, motorcycle drivers and passengers under what age must wear a helmet?

18 years. Young riders have the least experience, and a helmet is what protects the head in a fall. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.37: “New Mexico Law requires all motorcycle drivers and passengers under 18 years old to wear a helmet.”

Why should a rider check the mirrors while stopped at an intersection?

To watch for cars coming from behind. A driver who is not paying attention can be on top of a stopped bike before seeing it. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.37: “When you are stopped at an intersection. Watch cars coming up from behind.”

How should a rider set speed when riding at night?

Slower than by day. In the dark a rider sees hazards later, so a slower speed leaves time to miss them. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.38: “Ride even slower than you would during the day, particularly on roads you don't know well.”

In a staggered formation, where in the lane does the lead rider ride?

The left side. Splitting riders between the two sides keeps the group close while each bike keeps its own room. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.38: “The leader rides in the left side of the lane, while the second rider stays one second behind in the right side of the lane.”

A dog starts chasing a motorcycle. What should the rider do first?

Shift down and approach it slowly. Going slow at first keeps the bike under control and stops the rider from hitting the dog. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.38: “If you are chased, shift down and approach the animal slowly.”

Where is the greatest potential for conflict between a motorcycle and other traffic?

At intersections. Intersections are where other cars cross the rider's path, so that is where most crashes start. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.38: “The greatest potential for conflict between you and other traffic is at intersections.”

At a blind intersection, what does a rider do after stopping at the stop sign?

Edge forward and stop again. Buildings or bushes hide cross traffic from the stop line, so a second stop lets the rider see past them. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.39: “Then edge forward and stop again, just short of where the cross-traffic lane meets your lane.”

What can most motorcycle wobbles be traced to?

Wrong tire pressure or poor loading. Checking the load, the add-ons and the tires before a ride stops most wobbles before they start. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.39: “Most wobbles can be traced to improper loading, unsuitable accessories, or incorrect tire pressure.”

Where in the lane should a rider stay while being passed?

In the center portion. The middle of the lane keeps the bike away from the passing car's side, mirrors and wind blast. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.39: “When you are being passed from behind or by an oncoming vehicle, stay in the center portion of your lane.”

Where these come from

Every rule here is checked against New Mexico Driver Manual, published by the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department, and against the state code itself. Last checked 2026-10-04.