Free New Mexico permit practice tests with 70 exam-style questions, a timed mock exam sized to the real test, flashcards, a road-sign quiz, and an on-device AI tutor grounded in the official New Mexico driver handbook. The official New Mexico written knowledge test has 25 questions and requires 72% to pass.
About the New Mexico written test
Knowledge (written) test: 25 questions based on the New Mexico Driver Manual; must answer 18 correctly (72%) to pass.
Vision test: Required at application.
Road (skills) test: Tests vehicle control, turns, backing, signaling, and observation. Required for provisional/first license.
Getting licensed in New Mexico
Instructional Permit (Stage 1): Available at age 15. Applicant must be enrolled in (or have completed) a state-approved driver education program, and pass the written knowledge and vision tests. The holder must drive accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old, seated next to the driver.
Provisional License (Stage 2): Available at age 15½, after holding the instructional permit at least 6 months and completing a 50-hour supervised practice log (including at least 10 hours at night). The driver must also complete a state-approved driver education course that includes a 3-hour DWI awareness component. A provisional licensee may drive 5:00 a.m. to midnight; between midnight and 5:00 a.m. a licensed driver 21+ must accompany them (with exceptions for school, work, family/medical need, and religious functions).
Passenger restriction: No more than one passenger under 21 who is not an immediate family member.
Full (Unrestricted) License (Stage 3): Available at age 16½, after holding the provisional license for at least 12 months (or to age 16½) with no convictions/violations during the most recent period.
New Mexico written-test FAQ
What is the minimum age for a New Mexico instructional permit?
15.
What must you be enrolled in or have completed to get the instructional permit?
A state-approved driver education program.
At what age can you get a provisional license?
15½.
How many supervised practice hours are required before a provisional license?
50 hours.
How many of those hours must be at night?
At least 10 hours.
How long must you hold the instructional permit before the provisional license?
At least 6 months.
During what hours may a provisional licensee drive without a 21+ supervisor?
5:00 a.m. to midnight.
How many non-family passengers under 21 may a provisional licensee carry?