Test Format

25

Total questions

72%

Passing score

18/25

Min. correct

Multiple choice

Eligibility & Fees

Permit age	15
License age	15.5 (provisional) / 16.5 (full)
Permit fee	$10
License fee	$18 (4-year)
Permit holding period	6 months minimum
Supervised hours	50 hours total (10 at night)

⚠ Memorize this — New Mexico-specific

Stupid Motorist Law: drivers who cross flooded arroyos and require rescue can be billed for the cost.

💡 Pro tip

Flooded arroyo questions ("Turn Around, Don't Drown") are NM-specific. Always avoid flood waters.

Top 5 Questions to Know

1. 1. In New Mexico, a driver who ignores "Road Closed" barricades and drives into a flooded arroyo requiring rescue may be:

   Answer: Billed for the actual cost of their rescue.

   New Mexico's "Stupid Motorist Law" (officially the "Foolishly Entering a Flooded Roadway" statute) allows emergency services to bill drivers for the cost of rescue operations when they bypass flood wa...

2. 2. What does a NO PASSING ZONE pennant sign indicate?

   Answer: Do not pass other vehicles here

   A no passing zone sign warns that drivers must not pass in that area.

3. 3. What does a lane-use control sign indicate?

   Answer: They show allowed movements from the lane

   Lane-use control signs show which movements are allowed from a particular lane.

4. 4. What does a steady red traffic light mean?

   Answer: Stop and remain stopped until you may lawfully go

   A steady red light requires a complete stop until the signal changes or a permitted turn can be made lawfully.

5. 5. What does this sign indicate?

   Answer: Come to a complete stop

   A stop sign means you must come to a complete stop and proceed only when it is safe.

Top Reasons Drivers Fail the Road Test

• ✗ Rolling stops at stop signs
• ✗ Failing to check blind spots before lane changes
• ✗ Exceeding speed limit (even by 1–2 mph)
• ✗ Not signaling early enough before turns
• ✗ Improper lane changes