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To be issued a REAL ID, New Mexicans must bring acceptable documents showing proof of lawful identity and age, identification number, and New Mexico residency to their MVD appointment. New Mexicans should visit https://realid.mvd.newmexico.gov/ for assistance identifying required documents.
Source: NM Motor Vehicle Division
Image: Courtesy
SANTA FE— Since March 28, 2025, 17,364 New Mexicans have received a REAL ID. The Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) offices saw roughly 5,400 additional customers in March and 10,600 additional customers in April, compared to historic trends.
MVD’s wait times have increased with this additional customer demand, but the average wait time remains under 10 minutes. Many MVD’s field offices typically have same and next-day appointments available.
To be issued a REAL ID, New Mexicans must bring acceptable documents showing proof of lawful identity and age, identification number, and New Mexico residency to their MVD appointment. New Mexicans should visit https://realid.mvd.newmexico.gov/ for assistance identifying required documents.
To verify lawful identity, all documents must have the individual’s legal name associated with the name on their birth certificate. If a marriage or legal name change has taken place, documents such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees or court documents must be provided.
New Mexicans can make MVD appointments online at mvd.newmexico.gov or by calling 1-888-683-4636. From the time of an appointment, REAL IDs will take two to three weeks to arrive by mail.
New Mexico’s Mobile Driver’s License, launched in December 2024, automatically reflects whether an individual holds a REAL ID or a Standard ID. Mobile Driver’s Licenses are currently accepted at the Albuquerque Sunport and the Lea County Regional Airport near Hobbs.
May 7, 2025, was the federal deadline for full enforcement of the REAL ID Act. A REAL ID, passport or other federally accepted document is now required to board domestic flights and enter many federal buildings.
MVD has been encouraging New Mexicans who need a REAL ID to make an appointment with MVD or one of its partner offices. For individuals who do not want or need a REAL ID, New Mexico offers a Standard ID that cannot be used for federal purposes but is a valid license to drive.
