Applying for an ID Card in New Mexico

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 a driver's license to prove who they are. However, some people do not possess a driver's license yet need a valid ID, such as when they open a bank account or write a check. Minors who are too young to drive may opt for an ID card and they can do so without parental consent unless they choose to become an organ donor.

(ID cards have been successfully used as a required form of identification in foreign countries. In some of these countries, ID cards must be presented by people of all ages when prompted to do so by the proper authorities. Although some feel that constitutes fascism, we have slowly come to use a Social Security number as a similar proof of identification. As such, Social Security numbers have become a completely different tool than was originally intended.)

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 provides the following:

*Photograph of cardholder
*Full name
*Address
*Date of birth
*Height
*Hair color
*Eye color
*ID number
*Expiration date
*Donor information

Application Process

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

* 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, as will a thumbprint and signature. A nominal fee is charged and you will have the choice of becoming an organ donor (minors must have guardian's signature). For more information about ID card application or fees, contact your local MVD office, listed here: http://www.state.nm.us/tax/trd_fone.htm#mvd. One should expect their New Mexico ID card in the mail within six weeks, the same amount of time for a Driver license to arrive. ID cards that are stolen or lost do not have to be reported to the police, although there is a fee in replacement.