Headlight & Taillight Tint in New Mexico
Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in New Mexico. Headlights must emit white light and taillights must show red at the required visibility distance, and tint that dims or discolors them violates those requirements.
Verified against primary sources · August 2026
What the law says
Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in New Mexico. Headlights must emit white light and taillights must show red at the required visibility distance, and tint that dims or discolors them violates those requirements. Taillamps must emit red light plainly visible at 500 feet to the rear.
Specific Limits
- Film permitted
- No
- Headlight color
- white
- Taillight color
- red
Exceptions & Exemptions
New Mexico prohibits any covering, coating, or tinting material on headlights and taillights that reduces light output or visibility
Frequently Asked Questions
Are headlight & taillight tint legal in New Mexico?
What are the exact headlight & taillight tint limits in New Mexico?
Are there exceptions for headlight & taillight tint in New Mexico?
Street-legal headlight & taillight tint picks
Gear that helps you mod without a ticket in New Mexico.
Clear, bright lenses — the fully legal alternative to tinting them.
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