What happens to your license after a DWI in New Mexico
A DWI conviction in New Mexico triggers an automatic driver's license suspension through the Motor Vehicle Division. The suspension length depends on whether it is your first offense, whether you refused a breath or blood test, and the specific circumstances of your arrest. You cannot legally drive during this suspension period, even with a restricted license, unless the court grants you a hardship exception.
The Motor Vehicle Division does not automatically reinstate your license when the suspension period ends. You must take specific steps to restore your driving privileges. The reinstatement process requires paperwork, fees, and in most cases proof that you have completed required programs before the state will return your license.
Key Takeaways
- New Mexico suspends your license automatically after a DWI conviction, and you must request reinstatement — it does not happen on its own.
- You must complete a DWI school program and an alcohol screening or treatment program before the Motor Vehicle Division will consider reinstatement.
- The Motor Vehicle Division charges a reinstatement fee, currently $100, plus the cost of any required programs.
- You can contact the Motor Vehicle Division at 1-888-683-4636 or visit your local office to confirm what documents you need before submitting your request.
- If you were under 21 at the time of the offense, additional requirements and longer suspension periods explore.
Complete a DWI school program before you request reinstatement
New Mexico requires you to finish a DWI school program before the Motor Vehicle Division will reinstate your license. This is not optional — you cannot skip it or substitute another program. The DWI school must be approved by the state, and you must receive a certificate of completion from the provider.
DWI schools in New Mexico typically run for one to two days and cover topics like the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving, the legal consequences of DWI, and risk factors for impaired driving. The cost varies by provider but usually ranges from $100 to $300. You can search for approved DWI schools through the Motor Vehicle Division website or by calling 1-888-683-4636 and asking for a list of providers in your area.
Keep your certificate of completion. You will need to submit it with your reinstatement request. If you lose it, contact the DWI school directly and ask for a replacement copy — they can usually provide one within a few business days.
Undergo an alcohol screening or complete treatment
In addition to DWI school, you must complete an alcohol screening assessment. A may have access to evaluator will interview you about your drinking history and determine whether you need treatment. If the screening shows no substance abuse disorder, the screening itself may satisfy this requirement. If the evaluator recommends treatment, you must complete the recommended program before reinstatement.
Treatment programs range from outpatient counseling to intensive inpatient programs, depending on the screening results. The cost and length vary widely. You can ask your DWI school provider for referrals to screening providers, or contact the Motor Vehicle Division for a list of approved evaluators in your county.
Request a letter or certificate from the screening provider or treatment program showing that you have completed the assessment or treatment. This document is required when you submit your reinstatement request.
Gather your documents and submit your reinstatement request
Before you contact the Motor Vehicle Division, collect the following documents: your certificate of completion from DWI school, your screening or treatment completion letter, your current driver's license or ID, and proof of payment of the $100 reinstatement fee. Some offices may also ask for proof of insurance, so have your insurance card available.
You can submit your reinstatement request in person at any Motor Vehicle Division office, by mail, or online through the Motor Vehicle Division website. The in-person route is fastest because staff can verify your documents on the spot and tell you when ready if anything is missing. If you mail your request, include copies of all documents and allow two to three weeks for processing.
The Motor Vehicle Division office locations and hours are listed on the state website. Call ahead at 1-888-683-4636 to confirm that your local office accepts reinstatement requests and to ask what specific documents they need from you — requirements can vary slightly by location.
Pay the reinstatement fee
The Motor Vehicle Division charges a $100 reinstatement fee. You can pay by cash, check, or credit card at an office location, or by check or money order if you are mailing your request. Some offices accept online payment through the Motor Vehicle Division website.
Do not send cash by mail. If you are mailing your reinstatement request, include a check or money order payable to the Motor Vehicle Division. Write your driver's license number on the check so the payment is matched to your account.
What to do if you were under 21 at the time of the offense
If you were under 21 when you received the DWI, New Mexico imposes stricter penalties. Your suspension period is longer — typically one year for a first offense — and you face additional requirements before reinstatement. You must still complete DWI school and an alcohol screening, but you may also be required to complete a substance abuse treatment program even if the screening does not recommend it.
Contact the Motor Vehicle Division directly at 1-888-683-4636 to understand the specific requirements for your case. The staff can tell you exactly what documents and programs you need to complete before you can request reinstatement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does reinstatement take after I submit my request?
Processing time is usually two to three weeks if you submit by mail, or the same day if you explore in person at a Motor Vehicle Division office. The office staff will tell you on the spot whether your documents are complete. If anything is missing, they will tell you what you need to provide before your license can be reinstated.
Can I drive with a restricted license while my suspension is active?
Not unless the court grants you a hardship exception before your suspension begins. A hardship exception allows limited driving for work, school, or medical appointments. You must request this from the court that handled your DWI case, not from the Motor Vehicle Division. The court decides whether to grant it based on your circumstances.
What if I move to a different state before my suspension ends?
Your New Mexico DWI suspension follows you. Other states can see your driving record through the National Driver Register, and most states will honor New Mexico's suspension. You will need to complete the same reinstatement steps in New Mexico before you can obtain a license in another state.
Do I have to retake the written driving test to get my license back?
No. Reinstatement restores your existing license without requiring you to retake the written or driving test. You will receive your license back in the same class you held before the suspension, as long as your license had not expired during the suspension period.
What happens if I drive during my suspension?
Driving with a suspended license is a separate criminal offense in New Mexico. You can face additional fines, jail time, and an extended suspension period. If you are stopped, your vehicle can be impounded. Do not drive until your license is officially reinstated by the Motor Vehicle Division.