What is REAL ID?

The REAL ID Act is a federal law passed in 2005 that sets standards for the issuance of driver’s licenses and identification cards. The goal of REAL ID is to establish minimum security standards for state-issued Driver’s Licenses and ID cards that can be used for official federal purposes. After May 3, 2023, you will need a REAL ID to board a commercial aircraft, enter a federal building or military base, or enter a nuclear facility.

How Do I Know If My ID is a REAL ID?

New Mexico driver’s licenses and ID cards that are REAL ID compliant will have a star symbol. If you renewed your license or ID card after November 14, 2016, you have a REAL ID.

Do I Need a REAL ID?

The short answer is, it depends. If you do not plan to fly commercially or enter any federal facilities that require ID, then you will not need a REAL ID. However, if you do plan to do any of those things, you will need a REAL ID. In some cases, you may be able to use a valid U.S. passport as an approved form of identification, but it is best to get a REAL ID.

How Do I Get a REAL ID?

If you have a New Mexico driver’s license or ID card that is not REAL ID compliant, you will need to visit an MVD office and bring the following documents:
– Proof of identity, such as a valid passport or birth certificate
– Identification Number, such as a social security card
– Two proofs of residency in New Mexico, such as a utility bill or bank statement
– Proof of any legal name changes, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree

There is no additional fee to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card. However, you may need to pay a replacement fee if your current license or ID card has expired.