If New Mexico is the base state for your motor carrier operation, you are to be envied.  A day driving through the “land of enchantment” will present scenic vistas unsurpassed anywhere.  We hope you enjoy your time as an independent trucker in this fascinating state. But, before you can get started, you need to obtain a number of permits including an IRP apportioned plate.  

New Mexico IRP Information

What is the IRP and how does it apply to your operation?  The IRP, meaning International Registration Plan, is a reciprocal agreement between the US and Canada that manages the registration of commercial vehicles.  Motor carriers pay license fees to the base jurisdiction and then distributed to the jurisdictions on your route. The IRP fee calculator shows how fees are based on the miles you travel in each state, the weight of the vehicle, and the number of vehicles in the fleet.

New Mexico IRP Registration

Here’s how to get your IRP apportioned plates. Registering for an IRP apportioned plate involves several steps.  First, you may need to obtain a USDOT number, IFTA permit, and register for the HVUT.  More information is available at the links provided.  

Next, you are required to show that you establish a place of business in New Mexico.  The business must be a physical structure with a listed telephone number and street address. Employees must be conducting your business during regular business hours. Also, all operational records should be available at this location.  

The next step involves your vehicles.  Under the IRP, a qualified motor vehicle is one that:

  1. Is primarily for transporting people or products among two or more jurisdictions.
  2. Is a power unit that has two axles with a gross vehicle weight of 26,000 pounds or more, or
  3. Has three or more axles, regardless of GVW, or
  4. Is in use in a combination that exceeds 26,000 pounds.

Once they approve your registration, you’ll receive an IRP plate and one cab card for each vehicle in your fleet.  Keep these items with the vehicles at all times. Now, you’re ready to get started building your business.

Renewing Your New Mexico IRP Plate

Your IRP plate must be reviewed yearly.  About 90 days before the due date, the IRP will notify you of the pending renewal.  The notification should provide all of the information you’ll need for the process. Be sure to return the renewal application at least 30 days before the due date to avoid penalties or fines.

Keep in mind that your IFTA quarterly taxes and IRP fees must be up-to-date before your renewal can be approved.  

This is a lot of information to keep up with, but it is only a small part of the forms and regulations and due dates you’ll need to fill out and remember.  Why not make it easy on yourself? Find out what TruckingOffice can do to help simplify for your administrative tasks.

How TruckingOffice Can Make Your Job Easier

What is TruckingOffice?  It’s the software program you need for keeping your operation organized.  We designed our program with busy truckers like you in mind. You need to be out there driving, not sitting behind a pile of paperwork.  We will track your invoices, mileage, fuel use, vehicle maintenance, driver pay, dispatches, IRP and IFTA reporting, and so much more.

While you’re here, sign up for our free 30-day trial to find out how our program works.  Your success in the trucking business is important to us, so we want to help you save time and money. If you have questions about our program, please contact us at our toll-free number.