State launches free verification terminal loaner program for businesses.
Source: New Mexico Taxation and Revenue
Images: Courtesy Credence ID
What is Mobile ID?
The New Mexico Mobile ID is a secure, digitized version of your New Mexico credential (Drivers License or ID) that can be added to your mobile wallet (e.g., Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, and third party wallet apps), so you have your driver license (DL) or identification card (ID) easily accessible whenever you need it.
What are the advantages of Mobile IDs?
Your New Mexico driver’s license or state ID is stored on your mobile device, keeping your data safe and secure. You’ll always have the option to review what information is being requested and confirm or deny the release of it. Adding your eligible ID is completely optional and free of charge.
Do I still need to carry my regular my physical DL and ID?
In accordance with state laws, New Mexico residents will still need to carry a physical ID for use with law enforcement and venues where proof of age is required but Mobile IDs are not yet accepted. In the future, you can look forward to more places accepting Mobile IDs.
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division today announced the launch of its Mobile ID Reader Loaner Program, an effort to boost Mobile ID acceptance among New Mexico businesses.
The program allows businesses to enter into an agreement with MVD to temporarily loan out Tap2iD readers – age verification terminals – for free.
“New Mexico was at the forefront of states that adopted Mobile IDs. The public response has been excellent, and MVD is now ramping up resources that help businesses accept Mobile IDs,” said New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division Director Htet Wint. “Not only are Mobile IDs more convenient for many people, they’re also private and secure.”
The verification terminal uses secure cryptography to verify age on Mobile ID. The person verifying age with the terminal also ensures the photo shared on the terminal is the same as the person presenting the Mobile ID.
The New Mexico Wine Association and Happy Accidents, a bar in Albuquerque, are among the first local entities to utilize the Tap2iD readers.
“New Mexico Wine is thrilled to be the first participating business in the MVD’s Mobile ID Reader Loaner Program,” said New Mexico Wine Executive Director Christopher Goblet. “Wine has deep roots in New Mexico as the oldest grape growing region in the United States, but that does not mean we are out-of-touch with technology. Accepting Mobile IDs shows that this sector is thriving in the modern era. To our customers we say: Bring your phones and bring your friends.”
The minimum age required on the terminal can be customized via the online Verify with Credence management portal, making Mobile ID even more accessible for other businesses, such as dispensaries or destinations that offer perks for seniors.
New Mexico adopted Mobile IDs in 2024 and is now among 16 states that offer Mobile IDs. A full list of states, including participating TSA checkpoints at airports, can be found here.
More information on how to accept or download Mobile IDs can be found on MVD’s website here.