New Mexico Car Insurance Guide
From the Four Corners to Carlsbad, and everywhere in between, New Mexico truly is the "Land of Enchantment." Whether you’re exploring Albuquerque or stargazing in one of the state’s many parks, affordable auto insurance coverage can help protect you and your vehicle on every adventure. Take a few minutes to learn about cheap car insurance in New Mexico, including which coverages are mandatory and which are optional. EagleWay Auto Insurance can help you find a plan that fits your needs. Get a free quote to see how much you can save.
Do You Have to Have Car Insurance in New Mexico?
New Mexico law requires all drivers to maintain continuous liability insurance for any vehicle registered in the state. Policies must meet the minimum liability coverage limits, expressed as three numbers representing thousands of dollars. For example, New Mexico’s limits are 25/50/10.
New Mexico Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
| Coverage Type | Required by Law | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability – Pays for medical expenses and legal services if you injure someone in an accident. | Yes | $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident |
| Property Damage Liability – Pays for damage to other people’s property in an accident. | Yes | $10,000 per accident |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) – Pays for medical bills if the other driver has insufficient or no coverage. | Not required | – |
| Collision – Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after a collision. | Not required¹ | – |
| Comprehensive – Pays for non-collision damage like fire, flood, vandalism, or animals. | Not required¹ | – |
¹May be required by your lender if you lease or finance your vehicle.
Important: State-mandated liability coverage ensures compliance, but additional coverages like collision, comprehensive, and UM/UIM are recommended for full protection.
Additional Coverage Options
- Roadside Assistance*
- Emergency Protection Plan (EPP)*
- Medical Payments Coverage (Med Pay)
- Towing & Labor Coverage
- Rental Reimbursement Coverage
Proof of Financial Responsibility and Penalties
Driving without insurance in New Mexico carries serious consequences. The Motor Vehicle Division may suspend your registration if you fail to maintain minimum liability coverage. You must return your registration and license plate within 10 days of receiving a Notice of Suspension. Failure to comply could result in criminal penalties.
Penalties for Driving with a Suspended License
Operating a vehicle without a valid license is illegal in New Mexico. Penalties may include a misdemeanor charge, fines up to $1,000, and potential jail time.
SR-22 Insurance in New Mexico
New Mexico does not require SR-22 filings. However, if you move to another state, an SR-22 may be required for drivers who have committed serious violations, failed to maintain coverage, or were convicted of DUI/DWI. EagleWay Auto Insurance can assist with SR-22 filings if needed.
High-Risk Auto Insurance
Drivers with multiple violations or serious infractions may be considered high-risk. Non-standard insurance provides financial protection for these drivers. EagleWay Auto Insurance offers affordable coverage for high-risk drivers in New Mexico.
Finding the Cheapest Car Insurance Rates in New Mexico
Car insurance costs vary based on coverage, vehicle, driving habits, location, demographics, driving record, and credit history. EagleWay Auto Insurance helps drivers, including high-risk drivers, find affordable coverage. Get a free car insurance quote online, or work with an EagleWay agent to create a plan that meets state requirements and fits your needs while maximizing discounts.