Registration FAQs

How much does it cost to register a vehicle?

Depending on the price and weight, registration fees range from $25.50 to $60.50 for one year for passenger vehicles. For a two-year registration, the fees range from 50.50 to $120.50.

Can I renew my registration over the Internet?

Yes. If your address is current, you have the option of renewing online. You can also renew your registration over the phone by calling (888) MVD-INFO (888-683-4636).

Do I register my boat at the same place I register my car?

Yes. Registering a boat involves the same procedures as
registering a car. The only difference is that you might want to call ahead to a Motor Vehicle Division office to make sure the person who handles the boating paperwork is there.

I just bought a new Honda and need to register it by next week. The dealer said I do not need an emission check. But I live in Albuquerque. Is that right?

Yes, that is correct. New cars are exempt from an emissions check for two registration cycles. If you choose to register every other year, then you can go four years without having your first test.

I live in Santa Fe but work in Albuquerque. Do I need an emissions test to register my car?

Yes. Despite living outside the emissions region, if you commute into Bernalillo County (where Albuquerque is located) more than 60 days in a year, you will need to pass an emissions test.

I built a trailer to tow my ATVs. Do I need to register that?

Yes. If it weighs a certain amount, you will need to register it as a custom vehicle.

I sold just sold my car, but I kept the license plates. Can I just toss them in the recycle bin?

No. You have 30 days to register them on another vehicle. If this is not an option, simply deliver them to a local Motor Vehicle Division (MVD)office so they can be taken out of commission.

Can I get vanity plates for my new ride?

Yes you can, or you can opt to go for one of the other numerous plates offered by the state. Vanity or personalized plates will run you an extra $17 a year (or $32 if you register in two-year cycles). That is on top of the regular registration fees.

I registered my car several weeks ago and still haven't received the paperwork in the mail. What should I do?

Check with the MVD office where you originally applied. The MDV will advise you what action to take next.

If you renewed your registration online, call (888) 683-4636 or send an e-mail to poffice@state.nm.us to ask about the status of your application.

How do I get a duplicate title?

Complete Form MVD-10901, Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title. You must submit the application, appropriate ID, and the most current registration papers in person to your local MVD office with a $16.50 duplicate title fee.

How do I get a duplicate registration?

Complete Form MVD-10002, Application for Vehicle Title and Registration, being sure to check the box for "Duplicate" registration. You'll need to submit the form in person at your local MVD office with the appropriate fees.

My license plate was stolen off my car. How do I get a replacement?

You can get a replacement tag one of three ways:

• By phone at (888) 683-4636.

• In person at your local MVD office.

• By mail. Send payment, license plate number, and request for replacement to:
  • MVD
  • P.O. Box 1028
  • Santa Fe, NM 87504

The replacement fee is $17.

I’ve heard the IRS honors a tax deduction that has to do with my vehicle registration fees. Is this true?

Yes. The scoop is that the IRS counts a vehicle registration fee that's based on your vehicle's value as a personal property tax, which is deductible. This is true even if your state calls the fee a "registration fee" or a "vehicle use fee." Check out page 146 of the IRS's Publication 17 for more details.

But before you start entering your registration fees on line 7 of the 1040A form, double check to make sure your state calculates the car registration fee based on the car's value. For example, if your state charges you 1% of the car's value each year as a vehicle fee, and you pay $100 based on your car's value ($10,000), then you can deduct $100. If your state charges you for 1% of the car's value, plus a bunch of other miscellaneous fees, then you can still only deduct the $100. The fees might be itemized on your vehicle registration card or registration renewal form.

Other states ignore the car's value and charge only based on the vehicle weight; in those cases, you can't take the deduction.

If you aren't sure about whether the state charges this fee or you can't find the fee, contact your local motor-vehicle office. If you have questions about taking the deduction, call a tax professional or the IRS.

Where can I get more registration information?

Check out these links:

• Car Registration

• Title Transfers

• Boat Registration

• RV & Motorhome Registration

• Custom-built Car Registration

• Motorcycle Registration

What's the scoop on registering non-operational vehicles?

You can retain your registration and insurance while your vehicle is in storage. Otherwise, you'll need to contact your insurance agent if you opt to drop your vehicle's insurance and registration. Your agent will then send you a form verifying your decision.

Visit any MVD office to reinstate your non-operable vehicle's registration. Be sure to bring the insurance form your agent sent you (without it, the MVD will slug you with a $30 fine), along with the old registration form, proof of current insurance and the ability to pay all applicable fees.