New Mexico Car Insurance

Car Insurance in New Mexico

The Land of Enchantment is a big place, and whether you live in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or Las Cruces, NM, you're going to do a lot of driving. Luckily, driving there is fairly straightforward. The trademark Sandia Mountains to the east of Albuquerque are an easy navigational landmark, and I-25 and I-40 pass through the center of the city to provide easy access to much of the state. With so much driving to do, New Mexico drivers should carefully consider their car insurance options. If you're currently looking to switch your auto insurance, you can start your free New Mexico auto insurance quote online with GEICO.

Car Insurance Coverages in New Mexico

New Mexico insurance law requires the following auto insurance coverages:

  • Bodily injury liability: Minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
  • Property damage liability: Minimum of $10,000 per accident
  • Uninsured motorist bodily injury: Minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident*
  • Uninsured motorist property damage: Minimum of $10,000 per accident*

*You may reject uninsured motorist coverages in New Mexico.

While the above coverages are required to drive in New Mexico, there are additional coverages and limits available to consider. A GEICO insurance counselor can assist you to make sure you get the coverage levels that you need.

Some studies have suggested that as many as one in four drivers in New Mexico drives without insurance. Carrying uninsured motorist coverage can help to protect you from these drivers by offering payments if you are hit by someone without insurance or by a hit-and-run driver. Keep in mind that by carrying car insurance in New Mexico you're not only protecting yourself, but also other drivers on the road.

How to Save on Car Insurance in New Mexico

GEICO offers various car insurance discounts to help New Mexico drivers protect their vehicles at prices they can afford, including:

  • Multi-Line Discount: Bundle your homeowners or renters insurance with your auto insurance and receive a multi-line discount.
  • Drive-Easy Savings: Participate in DriveEasy on the GEICO Mobile app and get rewarded for safe driving habits.
  • Vehicle Equipment Discounts: Protect your vehicle with equipment like anti-lock brakes, anti-theft systems, and more to qualify for reduced car insurance rates.
  • Good Student Discount: Full-time students in New Mexico who maintain a B average or better may be eligible for lower car insurance premiums.

New Mexico Teen Driving Laws

New Mexico uses a three-stage licensing system for new drivers under the age of 18. The first stage is the learner's permit, for which teens become eligible at age 15. Only supervised driving with an adult 21 or older is allowed with this permit. It's important to note that a teen must complete or be enrolled in driver's education to receive a permit. At age 15 ½ and after 50 hours of supervised driving, a teen can apply for the provisional license. This license allows teens to drive unsupervised during daytime hours. After holding the provisional license for 12 months, a teen may apply for a full license.

New Mexico Registration Information

If you are taking up residency in New Mexico, you must surrender your license from any other state and apply for a New Mexico license within 30 days of moving to New Mexico.

To obtain a license, the DMV will need the following:

  • Your Social Security card.
  • Proof of identification and age.
  • Two proof-of-residence documents.
  • Certificate of completion of the "None for the Road" class for those aged 18-24.
  • You must pass an eye test if you have a license from another state.

To obtain registration for your vehicle, the DMV will need the following:

  • Your certificate of title.
  • Your current certificate of registration from another state.
  • Your odometer reading to complete an odometer statement.
  • Proof of New Mexico residency and your New Mexico residential address.
  • Vehicle ID inspection certificate signed by a full-time law enforcement officer or by an employee at a local DMV field office.
  • Proof of insurance including policy number and insurance carrier name.

New Mexico Car Insurance FAQs

  • Is New Mexico a no-fault insurance state?
    New Mexico is not a no-fault insurance state. It follows a fault-based system, meaning if you're involved in an accident, the driver found responsible is liable for covering damages. Drivers can seek compensation through the at-fault driver's insurance, their own coverage (if applicable), or legal action.
  • What is the average cost of car insurance in New Mexico?
    The cost of car insurance in New Mexico depends on several factors, including your age, driving history, vehicle type, and coverage levels. While averages exist, rates can vary significantly based on individual circumstances, discounts, and policy options. To get the most accurate estimate, it's best to compare personalized quotes.
  • Is $100 a month for car insurance in New Mexico a lot?
    Whether $100 a month is considered high or low for car insurance in New Mexico depends on the level of coverage, your driving profile, and local market trends. For some drivers, such as those with a clean record and minimal coverage, it may be on the higher end. For others who need additional coverage or have prior incidents, it could be a competitive rate.
  • What is the best car insurance in New Mexico?
    The best car insurance in New Mexico balances affordability, coverage options, and dependable customer service—and GEICO delivers on all three. With a variety of policy choices, valuable discounts, and an easy-to-use online and mobile experience, GEICO makes it simple to find the right coverage.