New Mexico’s diverse landscapes offer motorcyclists breathtaking rides from the Chihuahuan Desert to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. However, before hitting the open road, riders must familiarize themselves with the state’s motorcycle laws. This guide outlines key New Mexico motorcycle laws for safe and legal riding experiences.
Licensing Requirements
To legally operate a motorcycle in New Mexico, riders must obtain a valid license or endorsement. The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) issues three types of licenses:
- Class M: For motorcycles only
- Class MD: For motorcycles and regular vehicles
- Motorcycle Endorsement: Added to an existing driver’s license
Applicants must pass both written and skills tests to obtain a motorcycle license. New riders under 18 must complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course before applying for a license.
Helmet Laws
New Mexico’s helmet law applies only to riders and passengers under 18. While adults can legally ride without helmets, the MVD strongly recommends all motorcyclists wear DOT-approved helmets to reduce the risk of head injuries.
Eye Protection
New Mexico law requires all motorcyclists to wear eye protection, such as goggles, safety glasses, or a face shield, unless the motorcycle has a windscreen.
Motorcycle Equipment Requirements
New Mexico law mandates specific equipment for all motorcycles:
- Headlights: One headlight, operational whenever the motorcycle is in use
- Taillights and Brake Lights: At least one red taillight and one red brake light
- Turn Signals: Not required on motorcycles manufactured before 1973
- Mirrors: At least one mirror providing a view of the highway for at least 200 feet behind the motorcycle
- Mufflers: All motorcycles must have mufflers in good working order
- Handlebars: Must not be higher than the rider’s shoulders when seated
Lane Splitting and Lane Sharing
New Mexico law prohibits lane splitting, the practice of riding between lanes of traffic. However, two motorcycles may share a single lane side by side.
Passenger Regulations
Passengers can ride motorcycles in New Mexico, provided the bike is designed to carry more than one person. The motorcycle must have a permanent passenger seat and footrests for the passenger.
Insurance Requirements
New Mexico requires all motorcyclists to carry minimum liability insurance:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons
- $10,000 for property damage
Proof of insurance must be carried at all times while operating a motorcycle.
Motorcycle Safety Courses
While not mandatory for adult riders, the MVD strongly recommends that all motorcyclists complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course. These courses offer valuable skills and knowledge to enhance rider safety, and some insurance companies offer discounts to riders who complete them.
DWI Laws
New Mexico’s DWI laws apply to motorcyclists. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. However, riders can be charged with DWI at lower BAC levels if impairment is evident. Penalties for motorcycle DWI are severe and may include license suspension, fines, and imprisonment.
Motorcycle Registration
All motorcycles operated on New Mexico roads must be properly registered with the MVD, renewed annually, and carry proof of registration while riding.
Off-Highway Vehicles
New Mexico has separate laws governing off-highway motorcycles. These vehicles must be registered as such and may be restricted in their operation.
Out-of-State Riders
Visitors to New Mexico can operate a motorcycle with a valid license from their home state or country. However, they must adhere to all New Mexico motorcycle laws while riding.
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