NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – The clock is ticking for drivers to switch to real ID licenses. The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division said more than 370,000, or 20% of New Mexico drivers, still have not obtained a Real ID even though New Mexico switched to them back in 2016. Those who don’t switch by May 7 will no longer be able to pass through airport security or go into a federal government building.
Some states have seen a rush of drivers trying to get their Real ID by the deadline. While the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department expects to see an influx at New Mexico Motor Vehicle Departments, they don’t expect to see long lines. “Ever since we reopened using our appointment model after the COVID pandemic slowdown and everything, we’ve had wait times consistently average four to five minutes statewide. And all of our field offices statewide have same or next-day appointments regularly. So we are ready to have those people make appointments and come in with their documentation to get a Real ID,” said Stephanie Schardin Clarke, Cabinet Secretary for the Taxation & Revenue Department.
To get a Real ID, you need a valid ID, a passport or birth certificate, proof of your social security number or birth date, and two documents proving your residency.