New Mexico Weight Distance Tax: A Complete Guide
Contact the New Mexico Commercial Vehicles Division at (949) 208-2371.
Managing the requirements of commercial vehicles operating in New Mexico can be challenging. The New Mexico Weight Distance Tax (WDT) is a crucial requirement. Here’s a description of what it is, why it’s important, and how to stay in compliance.
What is New Mexico's Weight Distance Tax (WDT)?
The New Mexico Weight Distance Tax is a tax levied on commercial vehicles having a claimed gross weight more than 26,000 pounds. This tax applies to both interstate and intrastate trucks driving on New Mexico roadways and is calculated depending on the vehicle’s weight and distance traveled inside the state. To comply with state requirements, businesses must register vehicles and get a New Mexico Weight Distance Tax Electronic Permit once a year.
Starting at only $25 (USD)
New Mexico Weight Distance Tax
Why Does Paying the WDT Matter?
This fee is critical to funding the state’s road infrastructure. Heavy commercial trucks cause significant wear and tear on highways, and money from the WDT guarantees that these vehicles contribute fairly to road upkeep. The funds raised go directly to constructing and maintaining safe and efficient transportation routes across New Mexico, benefiting both passengers and businesses.
Filing and Payment Schedules for WDT
Businesses must file their WDT reports quarterly with the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division. The following are the filing deadlines:
- 1st Quarter (Jan 1–Mar 31): Due by April 30
- 2nd Quarter (Apr 1–Jun 30): Due by July 31
- 3rd Quarter (Jul 1–Sep 30): Due by October 31
- 4th Quarter (Oct 1–Dec 31): Due by January 31
Electronic Filing Requirements:
For businesses that manage many commercial vehicles, electronic filing is necessary. Once you are required to file online, all subsequent returns must likewise be done electronically. Even if your cars do not go into New Mexico in a given quarter, you must still file a tax return. To avoid mistakes or fines, ensure that each payment includes an electronic filing confirmation.
Consequences of late filing
Avoiding fines and interest requires timely filing. Late filings result in a penalty of 2% of the unpaid tax every month, up to a maximum of 10%, with a $5 minimum. Unpaid taxes also accrue daily interest at a rate of 0.041% until the whole sum is paid.
Types of plates and compliance
In New Mexico, commercial vehicles obtain multiple types of plates depending on their travel patterns:
Weight-Distance Plates: for intrastate travel within New Mexico.
IRP Plates: for interstate travel across states.
Having the right plates is critical to satisfying the state’s legal obligations.
One-time trips and temporary taxes.
Vehicles that need to pass through New Mexico once must get a Temporary Trip Tax permit. This one-time cost is computed using the vehicle’s gross weight and the number of miles traveled in New Mexico. It assures that all cars that use state highways contribute to their upkeep, even if they are only passing through.
Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT).
In addition to the WDT, commercial vehicles weighing 55,000 pounds or more are required to pay the federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) to the IRS. When registering a car in New Mexico, proof of tax payment, often IRS Form 2290, is required.
Complying with New Mexico regulations
To remain compliant, companies must renew their vehicle registration and WDT licenses on a yearly basis. In addition, WDT forms must be done quarterly, regardless of trip frequency. The WDT revenue, minus administrative costs, supports the State Road Fund, strengthening New Mexico’s commitment to safe and reliable roadways.
Do you need help managing your WDT filings?
Navigating the WDT criteria might be tough. Our staff provides full-service support with all your paperwork and electronic filings. Simply supply us with your filing confirmation, and we will handle the rest to maintain your business compliant.
Have questions?
Call the New Mexico Commercial Vehicles Division at (949) 208-2371. We’re here to make the filing procedure simple and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
The processing period for a New Mexico Weight Distance Permit varies, but it usually takes a few business days to a couple of weeks after submitting all needed papers.
To obtain a New Mexico Weight Distance Permit,
- first register your vehicle with the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).
- Apply for the Weight Distance Tax Electronic Permit annually.
- Submit all required papers, including evidence of vehicle weight and mileage.
- Submit a weight-distance tax return quarterly and pay the appropriate tax.
The permit itself is reasonably inexpensive, but the principal cost is the weight-distance tax, which is calculated depending on the vehicle’s weight and the number of miles traveled on New Mexico roadways. The actual cost varies according on various factors.
For assistance with the Weight Distance Permit, please contact the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department. Here’s the phone: (949) 208-2371.
The procedure includes registering your car, applying for a permit, providing the necessary papers, and completing quarterly tax reports.
Any owner, operator, or registrant of commercial vehicles with a claimed gross vehicle weight greater than 26,000 pounds traveling on New Mexico roadways is required to obtain a Weight Distance Permit.
Have Questions? We’re here to help! (949) 208-2371
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