New Mexico Open Container Law (2026)

Open Container Law in states bordering New Mexico

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

• ArizonaRestricted

  Arizona prohibits open containers of spirituous liquor in the passenger compartment on a public highway, and the ban covers the driver and passengers alike. There are exemptions for buses, taxis, limousines, rideshare vehicles and motorhome living quarters. A violation is a class 2 misdemeanor (A.R.S. 4-251).

  Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: azleg.gov · Full Arizona rule →

• ColoradoRestricted

  In Colorado, open alcoholic beverage containers are prohibited in the passenger area of a vehicle on a public highway — drinking, or merely possessing an open container while seated there, is a class A traffic infraction (C.R.S. 42-4-1305(2)(c)). …

  Verified Jul 29, 2026 · Source: csp.colorado.gov · Full Colorado rule →

• OklahomaRestricted

  Oklahoma prohibits transporting or possessing an open or broken-seal container of beer, wine or spirits in a moving vehicle on a public road, with exceptions for limousines and buses. It is a misdemeanor.

  Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: oklahoma.gov · Full Oklahoma rule →

• TexasRestricted

  Texas makes knowingly possessing an open container in the passenger area of a vehicle on a public highway — parked or moving — a Class C misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500. Exceptions cover passengers in hire vehicles such as a bus, taxi or limousine, and recreational-vehicle living quarters (Penal Code 49.031).

  Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: statutes.capitol.texas.gov · Full Texas rule →

• UtahRestricted

  Utah makes an open container in the passenger area of a vehicle on a highway unlawful; the ban does not apply to the trunk or other areas that cannot be reached, or to passengers in licensed limousines and chartered buses (Utah Code 41-6a-526).

  Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: le.utah.gov · Full Utah rule →