New Mexico · REAL ID

New Mexico REAL ID requirements

$18 to upgrade, 2 proofs of address, and walk-ins accepted. Answer four questions below to get your exact list.

New Mexico REAL ID document check

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New Mexico at a glance

  • Upgrade fee
    $18
  • First-time fee
    $18
  • Address documents
    2 required
  • Appointment
    Optional
  • Online pre-application
    Available
  • Card arrives in
    2-3 weeks

Documents New Mexico accepts

Proof of identity — bring one

Original or certified copy only. Photocopies, laminated documents, and phone photos are rejected.

  • Valid U.S. passport or passport card
  • Certified U.S. birth certificate (with raised seal)
  • Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240)
  • Valid permanent resident card (Green Card)
  • Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
  • Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550/N-570)
  • Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560/N-561)

Proof of Social Security number — bring one

  • Social Security card
  • W-2 form
  • SSA-1099 form
  • Pay stub with full SSN

Proof of New Mexico address — bring 2

Each document must show your name and street address. P.O. boxes are not accepted.

  • Utility bill (within 60-90 days)
  • Bank or credit card statement (within 60-90 days)
  • Mortgage bill or rental/lease agreement
  • Vehicle registration card
  • IRS or government-issued mail
  • Medical or insurance document with address

Proof of legal name change — only if your name changed

  • Certified marriage certificate
  • Certified divorce decree with name change
  • Court order for legal name change

Before you go

  • Walk-ins accepted at MVD offices
  • REAL ID has been required for domestic flights since May 7, 2025

New Mexico REAL ID questions

What documents do I need for a New Mexico REAL ID?

Bring one proof of identity (Valid U.S. passport or passport card), one document showing your full Social Security number, 2 proofs of New Mexico address, and certified proof of any legal name change. All documents must be originals or certified copies.

How much does a REAL ID cost in New Mexico?

$18 to upgrade an existing New Mexico license or ID, and $18 for a first-time card. Fees are set by the state and can change; the current amount is charged at the counter.

Do I need an appointment for a New Mexico REAL ID?

No, New Mexico offers walk-in service, but appointment slots are usually much faster than waiting in line. Availability varies by office.

Can I apply for a New Mexico REAL ID online?

New Mexico lets you complete the application online in advance, but you still have to appear in person once so a clerk can verify your original documents and take your photo.

How long does a New Mexico REAL ID take to arrive?

About 2-3 weeks. You normally leave the office with a temporary paper credential and the permanent card is mailed to the address on your application.