Who Needs ID?

State-issued ID cards are used as a primary proof of identity by those who do not have other means to do so. In most cases, citizens use their driver's license to prove who they are and how old. However, some people do not possess a driver's license, yet they need a valid ID―such as when they open a bank account or write a check.

Having a form of identification that you can simply carry in a wallet or pocketbook is essential in today's world. Passports tend to oversize, and not everybody has (or needs) one. Birth certificates lack the obvious photo requirement, and a Social Security card will not get you very far either.

The state ID card is a great alternative. It has all the benefits of a driver's license, minus the driving. Besides the aforementioned bank dealings, having an ID will get you onto an airplane and into the hottest club in town.

Minors who are too young to drive can also opt for an ID card. They can get one without parental consent unless they choose to register as an organ donor.

New Mexico ID Cards

An ID card identifies a person as a citizen of a specific state. You are not allowed to have one if you already possess a driver's license. In the state of New Mexico, an ID card shows the following:

• Photograph of the cardholder

• Full name

• Address

• Date of birth

• Height

• Hair color

• Eye color

• ID number

• Expiration date

• Donor status

Application Process

You must apply for an ID card in person at the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). There, you have to provide the following documentation (view the complete list):

• An original birth certificate, military ID, or passport

• Social Security card

• Proof of residence

A photograph will be taken of you for an ID card, and you will need to provide your thumbprint and signature. As with a driver's license, you have the choice of registering as an organ donor (minors must have a guardian's signature).

Renewing Your ID Card

New Mexico ID cards are issued for a period of either four or eight years, and will expire on the cardholder's date of birth. There is, however, a grace period of 30 days before any late charges will be incurred, and you should receive notification of the upcoming renewal by mail approximately 90 days prior to the renewal date.

Because New Mexico does not have automated renewal services available, you will need to go in person to your local Motor Vehicle Division Office to process your ID card renewal.

The renewal fee is $10 for four years, or $18 for eight years.

Replacing Your ID Card

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged ID card, head to your local MVD office with state-approved proof of your identity and residence in hand.

Duplicate fees are the same as regular issuance fees: $5 for a four-year ID, $10 for an eight-year ID. All fees are waived for applicants 75 or older.

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