Please note: All applications mailed to us are processed through the UNM Main Campus Mail, which serves the entire campus. Once we receive your application, we have 15 business days to review and process.
For NMDOT approved Correspondence Driver Education Schools click Here
For Correspondence Driver Education Application click HERE
New Mexico Driver Education Requirements
The New Mexico Department of Transportation, Traffic Safety Division (TSD) retains authority over all New Mexico driver education schools. As such, preference is given to traditional, face-to-face driver education instruction such as offered by public high school and private driver education school programs.
However, correspondence driver education schools may offer a solution for students in New Mexico who have specific reasons for being unable to attend a traditional, face-to-face driver education school program.
The New Mexico Administrative Code (NMAC 18.20.3) establishes the eligibility criteria for students seeking enrollment in a correspondence driver education school program. An application to enroll in a correspondence driver education school will be examined to determine eligibility.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must 15 years of age on or before the date the correspondence course will be completed. (Students are provided a maximum of 1 year to complete the course)
- There is not a driver education school program offered at the student’s High School.
- There is not a private driver education school within twenty-five (25) miles of the person’s home.
Eligibility Exceptions:
Home Schooling:
Students who are home schooled may qualify if the parent or legal guardian submits with the application official verification or notification from the New Mexico Public Education Department.
Scholastic, School Associated Activity:
Students who are involved in scholastic and/or school associated activities may qualify if the parent or legal guardian submits with the application supporting documentation from the school describing the scholastic activity, including the student’s name, specific days/hours/times of the activity that demonstrate direct conflict with the days/hours/times of either a public school driver education or private driver education school program. Such documentation must be in an official letterhead and signed by a school official.
Student Employment:
Students who are also employed while in school may qualify if the parent or legal guardian submits with the application a statement detailing the student’s place of employment, including the days/hours/times of the employment that demonstrate direct conflict with either a public school driver education or private driver education school program.
Extenuating Circumstances:
Extenuating circumstances are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The following are NOT considered extenuating circumstances:
- Students who are in a queue, or wait list for a high school drivers education class
- The cost of private driver education fees
- Personal preference
Extenuating circumstances may include medical or health related issues, or even student or parent/legal guardian employment schedules. Verifiable supporting documentation from physicians, health administrators, employers, etc., will be required to cite the specific circumstances and the days/times/hours that directly prevent the student from attending a high school or private driver education course.
Correspondence Driver’s Education Contact: