How Much Does It Cost to Get a License Plate in New Mexico in 2025?

Factors That Influence the Total License Plate Cost in New Mexico

The cost of obtaining a license plate in New Mexico is influenced by several factors, which include:

• Type of Vehicle: The vehicle type, such as passenger cars, motorcycles, or commercial vehicles, affects the cost. Larger vehicles or those used for commercial purposes may incur higher fees.
• Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles often have higher registration fees due to the increased wear and tear they cause on roads.
• Vehicle Age: Older vehicles may have different fee structures compared to newer models.
• County of Registration: Fees can vary depending on the county where the vehicle is registered, as local taxes and surcharges may apply.
• Type of License Plate: Standard, specialty, and personalized plates have different costs associated with them.

Specialty License Plates in New Mexico

New Mexico offers a variety of specialty license plates that cater to different interests and affiliations. These plates often come with additional fees, which are used to support specific causes or organizations. Some examples include:

• Military Plates: Available for veterans and active-duty military personnel, these plates may have reduced fees or additional requirements.
• Collegiate Plates: Plates featuring logos of New Mexico universities, with a portion of the fee supporting educational institutions.
• Charitable Plates: Plates that support various charities, with a portion of the fee going to the respective organization.

The cost for specialty plates typically includes:

• Initial Issuance Fee: Ranges from $25 to $50, depending on the plate type.
• Annual Renewal Fee: An additional $10 to $25 on top of the standard renewal fee.

Personalized License Plates in New Mexico

Personalized license plates allow vehicle owners to create custom messages or combinations of letters and numbers. The process and costs associated with obtaining a personalized plate include:

• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $17 is required when submitting a personalized plate application.
• Issuance Fee: Once approved, an issuance fee of $25 is charged.
• Annual Renewal Fee: An additional $15 is added to the standard renewal fee each year.

Applicants must ensure that their desired plate combination adheres to the state's guidelines, avoiding offensive or inappropriate language.

New Mexico License Plate Renewal Fee

License plate renewal in New Mexico is an annual requirement, with fees determined by several factors:

• Base Renewal Fee: Typically ranges from $27 to $62, depending on the vehicle's weight and type.
• Additional Fees: May include county-specific taxes, environmental fees, and any applicable specialty or personalized plate fees.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to renew their plates before the expiration date to avoid late fees and penalties.

New Mexico License Plate Replacements Fee

In the event that a license plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement can be obtained. The fees associated with replacing a license plate in New Mexico are as follows:

• Replacement Fee: A standard fee of $12 is charged for replacing a lost or damaged plate.
• Duplicate Registration Fee: If a duplicate registration is needed, an additional fee of $5 is applied.

Vehicle owners must provide proof of identity and vehicle ownership when requesting a replacement plate.

How Much Is the Tag Transfer Fee in New Mexico

When transferring a vehicle's license plate to a new owner or a different vehicle, a tag transfer fee is applicable. The costs involved include:

• Tag Transfer Fee: A fee of $5 is charged for transferring a license plate to another vehicle.
• Title Transfer Fee: If the vehicle's title is also being transferred, an additional fee of $17 is required.

Both the seller and buyer must complete the necessary paperwork to ensure a smooth transfer process.

Exemptions and Discounts

Certain exemptions and discounts are available for specific groups in New Mexico, which can reduce the overall cost of obtaining and maintaining a license plate:

• Senior Citizens: Residents aged 65 and older may qualify for reduced registration fees.
• Disabled Veterans: Veterans with a service-connected disability may be eligible for free or reduced-cost plates.
• Low-Income Individuals: Some counties offer reduced fees for individuals who meet specific income criteria.

Eligibility for these exemptions and discounts requires appropriate documentation and proof of status. Vehicle owners are encouraged to contact their local Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office for more information on qualifying for these benefits.