New Mexico § 66-3-18 - Display of registration plates and temporary registration permits; displays prohibited and allowed

Full text of New Mexico New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-3-18 — Display of registration plates and temporary registration permits; displays prohibited and allowed, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 66-3-18. Display of registration plates and temporary registration permits; displays prohibited and allowed

A. The registration plate shall be attached to the rear of the vehicle for which it

is issued; however, the registration plate shall be attached to the front of a road

tractor or truck tractor. The plate shall be securely fastened at all times in a fixed horizontal position

at a height of not less than twelve inches from the ground, measuring from the bottom

of the plate. It shall be in a place and position so as to be clearly visible, and it shall be

maintained free from foreign material and in a condition to be clearly legible. B. A demonstration or temporary registration permit shall be firmly affixed to the

inside left rear window of the vehicle to which it is issued, unless such display

presents a safety hazard or the demonstration or temporary registration permit is

not visible or readable from that position, in which case, the demonstration or temporary

registration permit shall be displayed in such a manner that it is clearly visible

from the rear or left side of the vehicle. C. No vehicle while being operated on the highways of this state shall have displayed

either on the front or the rear of the vehicle any registration plate, including validating

sticker, other than one issued or validated for the current registration period by

the department or any other licensing authority having jurisdiction over the vehicle. No expired registration plate or validating sticker shall be displayed on the vehicle

other than an expired special registration plate, which may be exhibited on the front

of the vehicle. D. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the use of

a promotional or advertising plate on the front of the vehicle. E. A violation of a provision of this section is a penalty assessment misdemeanor.

Source: official New Mexico text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About New Mexico § 66-3-18

What does New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-3-18 cover?

Section 66-3-18 ("Display of registration plates and temporary registration permits; displays prohibited and allowed") is part of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated, the codified statutory law of New Mexico. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite New Mexico § 66-3-18?

A common citation format is "New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-3-18" (New Mexico). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of New Mexico law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Mexico official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Mexico attorney.

How does New Mexico § 66-3-18 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Mexico can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Mexico.