Owners of registered vehicles may apply for transfer of the registration plates to another vehicle of the same class or type. New Mexico is a “Vehicle Plate to Owner” state. Transferring of License Plates in New Mexico Shipping of Prestige Plates is free of charge. To order online, just go to Online Services and click on Personalized Plate Application. Motor vehicle and motorcycle owners may apply for a special “prestige” or “vanity” registration plate. Aside from the standard license plates, there are a variety of specialty plates available to New Mexico drivers.
In 2012, New Mexico won an award for Best License Plate in the U.S. If the plate is lost, damaged or becomes illegible, the owner may obtain a duplicate or replacement plate from the MVD upon payment of fees. Registered vehicles will be issued registration plates that shall be securely attached to the rear of the vehicle, however, the registration plate of a road tractor or truck tractor shall be attached to the front. The inspection is usually done by a MVD agent at a local MVD Field Office. For out-of-state vehicles, a VIN inspection is required. If you’re a new resident of New Mexico, you need to register your vehicle with the MVD.
Residents of New Mexico must title and register their vehicles in Motor Vehicle Division before they can operate their vehicles.
