Aquatic Invasive Species
New Mexico AIS
Sticker Requirements 2026
Aquatic invasive species sticker and watercraft inspection requirements for New Mexico boaters. New Mexico does not require a paid AIS sticker but has AIS prevention requirements. New Mexico law requires all boats to be drained of water before being transported on public roads. Quagga mussels pose a threat to New Mexico waters from the Colorado River basin, and zebra mussels have been detected in some eastern NM waters.
2026 AIS Requirements Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Sticker
N/A
No sticker required
Nonresident Sticker
N/A
Check agency for current fees
Inspection?
Not Required
No mandatory inspection
Noncompliance Fine
Fines under NM AIS statutes for transporting prohibited species
For violating AIS requirements
Step-by-Step
How to Comply with AIS Requirements in New Mexico
Follow these steps to stay compliant with New Mexico's aquatic invasive species regulations:
1
Check Sticker & Inspection Requirements
New Mexico does not currently require a mandatory AIS sticker or inspection program. However, all boaters are strongly encouraged to follow Clean, Drain, Dry practices.
2
Purchase Your AIS Sticker (If Required)
No paid AIS sticker purchase is required in New Mexico at this time. Check back annually as state requirements can change.
3
Practice Clean, Drain, Dry
Before leaving any boat launch — and before launching on a new water body — clean all visible aquatic plants and debris from your boat, trailer, and equipment. Drain all water from bilges, livewells, bait buckets, motor, and other water-holding compartments. Allow the boat to dry for at least 5 days before launching on a different water body, or use a high-pressure, hot-water wash.
4
Cooperate with Inspection Stations
If you encounter a voluntary inspection station in New Mexico, stopping is strongly encouraged even if not required. Inspectors can identify and remove invasive species from your equipment that you may have missed.
Noncompliance fine: Fines under NM AIS statutes for transporting prohibited species.
Requirements
New Mexico AIS Compliance Requirements
New Mexico law requires draining all water from watercraft before transport on public roads. It is illegal to introduce or transport AIS into NM waters.
Source: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (www.wildlife.state.nm.us).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current AIS requirements directly with the agency before launching.