A New Mexico car title is issued by the Motor Vehicle Division of the Taxation and Revenue Department and is used primarily to show that a vehicle is roadworthy according to state standards. In most cases, a vehicle title is issued at the same time you obtain a vehicle registration. However, in certain circumstances such as having a non-working vehicle, it is possible to get car title certificates without simultaneously applying for a vehicle registration.

The NM MVD suggests getting car title documentation immediately after the vehicle’s ownership changes. If you are wondering exactly how to get car title documentation quickly, continue reading to learn more about getting a car title and how car titles differ from certificates of registration.

Where to Apply for a Car Title in New Mexico

Drivers needing to get a title for car ownership may do so by visiting their nearest MVD field office. Dozens of these offices are located around the state and can process new car title and used car title applications during normal business hours, which may vary by location.

Getting your car title can happen quicker at lower volume times, so call ahead to learn the best time to visit your local MVD field office. Note that the NM MVD provides free language translation services to drivers for whom English is a second language.

The New Mexico Auto Title Application

Whether getting car title and registration for a new or used car, two of the required forms are the same. Complete MVD Form 10187, Odometer Disclosure Statement, and MVD Form 10002, Application for Vehicle Title and Registration. The car title application form requires personal information such as the owner’s Social Security Number, driver license number and date of birth. If you are getting a car title on a vehicle with a lien against it, you must enter the lienholder’s name and address.

A large section of the DMV car title form is dedicated to specific vehicle information such as the year, make, model, color, body style and type of fuel. You must also include the full vehicle identification number. Your auto title application signature serves as verification that you understand New Mexico’s Mandatory Financial Responsibility Act and agree to maintain auto insurance coverage that meets the state’s minimum limits.

Documents You Must Provide When Applying for a New Car Title in New Mexico

When applying for a car title in New Mexico, the supporting documents required vary according to the type of vehicle you are titling. To obtain a certificate of title and register a new vehicle for the first time, bring the following documents to your MVD field office appointment:

  • The original Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO).
  • The original or certified copy of the dealer’s invoice.
  • Odometer statement.
  • Proof of insurance that meets state minimum liability coverage requirements.
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If you need to get car title documentation and registration on a used vehicle, bring these documents to the NM MVD field office:

  • The current outstanding Certificate of Title, with the Assignment of Title section completed and the document signed by the former owner.
  • Odometer statement signed by the buyer and seller.
  • Proof of auto insurance coverage that meets state requirements.

Residents of and daily commuters to Bernalillo County must provide an Emission Certificate of Inspection. If getting a pink slip title document on a vehicle that was a gift, both the donor and the recipient must sign a completed copy of MVD Form 10018, Affidavit of Gift of Motor Vehicle or Boat.

Finally, if you are getting car title documents on a vehicle that came from another state, you must have a certified VIN inspection. Your vehicle title process cannot be completed without proof that the VIN number on the vehicle matches the number on the car title paperwork.

What is a New Mexico car registration?

While a car title is a vital document, without an NM car registration, you cannot drive your vehicle legally. Vehicle registration provides the license plates and information needed to verify proper auto insurance coverage, both of which are necessary for legal vehicle operation. The motor vehicle registration document serves as proof that your vehicle has met any safety, emissions or other requirements for driving on the state’s roadways.

What is the difference between a car title and a vehicle registration in New Mexico?

Although New Mexico new car registration and car titles are usually applied for and obtained simultaneously, they are actually two separate documents that serve unique purposes. Simply put, a car title shows ownership of a vehicle while a car registration shows that the owner has met all state requirements to operate that vehicle legally. DMV car registration must be carried inside the vehicle at all times because you must have it on hand to show to a police officer during a routine traffic stop.

Unlike your car registration, your car title should not be stored inside the vehicle, for security purposes. File it at home or in a safe deposit box with your other important legal documents. A car title is issued once, at the time that you take ownership of a vehicle and will be valid as long as you own the car. An NM auto registration must be renewed on a regular basis, usually annually. Every time you get car registration renewal, you will have to pay the associated fees and taxes.

Car Title Costs in New Mexico

Vehicle owners in New Mexico typically title their cars at the same time that they register them. As such, the fees for titling and registering your vehicle are bundled together. This fee ranges in price from $27.00 to $62.00 based on the weight of your vehicle.

Two-year registrations range in price from $54.00 to $124.00. Truck title and registration fees cost $38.00 to $207.00, depending on the vehicle weight. Two-year registrations cost anywhere from $76.00 to $414.00.

Last updated on Tuesday, March 10 2020.