New Mexico Driver Education

New Mexico has one of the most alarming driving statistics in America. The second-highest numbers of deaths recorded by the state of New Mexico are due to automobile accidents for teens and teen drivers. For this reason, the graduated licensing program was established. In order to help teens become aware of the causes and consequences of poor driving decisions, implementation of this program had to take place.

In New Mexico, beginning drivers must be at least 15 years old and have either completed or at the least be enrolled in a state-approved driver's education course. While you have your learner's permit, you must be accompanied at all times in the front passenger seat by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old or older and has held a valid driver's license for no less than three years.

A state-approved driver's education course should consist of at least 35 hours of classroom time. In addition, a minimum of at least 50 hours of behind-the-wheel training including 10 hours of night driving must be completed before the teen can apply for the first step in their graduated driver's license. Parents or legal guardians should also be prepared to accompany students in the application process for their learner's permit, and will be required to sign a statement that shows they have observed this driving experience.

Vision

You must have a visual acuity of at least 20/40 in one eye to pass the driver's license vision test.

If you use glasses or contacts to reach this standard, you will need to wear the corrective lenses whenever you drive.

Drivers who turn 75 years old need to have their license renewed, and pass the vision test every year.

Seizures and Other Medical Conditions

Drivers who suffer from diabetes, epilepsy, heart ailments, and other serious medical conditions must provide periodic updates on their health to the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) through medical reports completed and signed by their doctor.

The reports may be turned in at a MVD office, or mailed to:

Motor Vehicle Division
Drivers Services Bureau
P.O. Box 1028
Santa Fe, NM 87504-1028

Epileptics must have their condition under control and have been without seizures for six months before applying for a driver's license.