First 24 Hours After Your DWI Arrest in New Mexico
You've just been through one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Here's exactly what to do, hour by hour.
⚠️ YOUR 10-DAY DEADLINE STARTS NOW
Request your MVD hearing with NM MVD within 10 days of your arrest or face automatic license suspension.
Request MVD hearing now- •You're being booked and processed at the station or jail
- •Your BAC test results are being recorded — DWI in New Mexico is typically 0.08%+
- •You may be held until sober or until bail is posted
- •The officer has taken your license and issued a temporary permit
- •Remain calm and polite — everything you say can be used against you
- •Bail process in New Mexico: you may be released on bond or OR (own recognizance)
- •A friend or family member may need to pick you up
- •Your temporary license is valid — check it for the exact expiration date
- •Do NOT drive if you are still impaired in any way
- •Keep all paperwork from your arrest — you'll need it
- •Do NOT discuss your case with anyone except a lawyer
- •Write down EVERYTHING you remember: time, location, what the officer said, field tests, etc.
- •Request your MVD hearing — you have 10 days from arrest
- •Contact a qualified attorney — most offer free initial consultations
- •Take photos of any relevant evidence (marks, vehicle condition, location)
- •Contact NM MVD if you have questions about your temporary permit
- •Don't post ANYTHING on social media — prosecutors check social media
- •Don't talk to police again without your attorney present
- •Don't miss your 10-day deadline — this is non-negotiable
- •Don't ignore this — it will NOT go away on its own
- •Don't take legal advice from friends or family — every case is different
- •Don't contact the other party if there was an accident
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