by Armando Martinez
If you're planning on buying a car from a private owner and registering it in New Mexico, it's important to understand the steps needed to register it with the state. Registering a car bought in a private owner car sale in NM is a straightforward process, but it does require some paperwork and fees and an in person visit to the DMV. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps needed to register your car in New Mexico.
Step 1: Obtain a Bill of Sale
The first thing you'll need to do is obtain a bill of sale from the seller. This document should include information such as the car's make, model, year, and VIN, as well as the purchase price and the names and addresses of both the buyer and seller. Make sure the bill of sale is signed by both parties. You can download the NMMVD Bill of Sale online.
Step 2: Obtain the Car Title
Next, you'll need to obtain the car title from the seller. Make sure that the title is signed over to you and that all fields are properly filled out. If there are any liens on the car, make sure they are paid off before completing the sale.
Step 3: Obtain Insurance
Before you can register your car in New Mexico, you'll need to obtain insurance. The state requires a minimum amount of liability coverage, which includes $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 for property damage per accident.
Step 4: Complete the Registration Application and Other Required Forms
Once you have the bill of sale, title, and proof of insurance, you'll need to and gather some additional documents to bring with you to the MVD. Before you can register your car you'll need to gather some important documents. These include:
- Certificate of Title - The current outstanding Certificate of Title for the vehicle, with the Assignment of Title section completed on either the front or reverse side, and signed by the former owner of the vehicle. The location of the Assignment of Title section can vary according to the age of the title as NM title documents have undergone numerous revisions throughout the years. No copies are accepted!
- Odometer Statement – The seller and the buyer must sign a document that shows that they agree on the odometer mileage reading at the time of the sale. This statement is typically found as a section to be completed on the Certificate of Title, or you can use any of the following NMMVD documents for this purpose: A NMMVD Bill of Sale Form MVD10009 or an NMMVD Odometer Statement.
- Proof of New Mexico Residency – You will need two forms of proof such as a utility bill, Employment pay stub, etc. For more information about acceptable forms of residency proof visit: https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/REALID-acceptable-docs-2.pdf.
- Proof of Identity -- A valid New Mexico Driver’s license should suffice. However, if you do not have a NM driver’s license, other forms of acceptable types of proof can be found by visiting: https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/REALID-acceptable-docs.pdf
- Completed Application for Vehicle Title & Registration (MVD Form 10002) – This form can be downloaded here.
Or you can obtain this form at your local DMV office. The application will ask for information such as the car's make, model, year, and VIN, as well as your personal information and insurance details.
Step 5: Have Your Vehicle Inspected
If your vehicle was previously titled in another state, you will need to have a vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection performed before you can complete your registration. The VIN inspection is usually done by a MVD agent at the MVD Field Office. However, not all Field Offices perform VIN inspections, and some require an advance appointment. It is recommended that the customer call ahead to inquire about VIN inspection availability and scheduling. If your MVD office does not offer VIN inspections, you may take your vehicle to a state-certified VIN inspection service before beginning the registration application process.
If you live in Bernalillo County, the NMMVD requires vehicles to undergo an emissions inspection. All 1987 and newer motor vehicles up to 10,000 lbs GVW must pass an emission test every two years and at change of ownership. Gas-electric hybrid vehicles are required to be tested every two years as well and can be tested at any certified Air Care Station. Only dedicated electric vehicles and diesel vehicles are exempt from emission testing. To find a state inspection station near you or learn more about emissions testing in NM, visit: https://www.cabq.gov/airquality/vehicle-emissions-testing.
Step 6: Pay the Fees
Along with your registration application and other completed documents, you'll need to pay certain fees. These fees include a title fee, registration fee, and excise tax. The exact fees will vary depending on the model year, weight, and whether you choose a one (1) year or two (2) year registration option. Additional taxes may be levied depending upon which county you reside, and certain fee exemptions may apply to your vehicle, so make sure to check with the MVD to determine the total amount due.
Step 6: Visit your local MVD Office to Submit Your Documents and Pay the Fees
Once you have gathered all required documents , you'll need to visit a New Mexico MVD office. To find the closest office to you, visit https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/maps-and-locations/. You will need to submit your documents and fees to the MVD. You must do this in person at your local MVD office. Along with your registration application and other completed documents, when you visit your MVD office to apply for your title and registration, you'll need to pay certain fees. These fees include a title fee, registration fee, plate fee. The exact fees will vary depending on the model year, weight, age and whether you choose a one (1) year or two (2) year registration option, as well as the style of license plate you choose. Certain fee exemptions may apply to your vehicle, so make sure to check with the MVD to determine the total amount due.
A Motor Vehicle Excise Tax may also be collected at the time of Registration depending upon your car’s value as reflected by the price you paid for the vehicle. For more information about this tax visit: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov/all-nm-taxes/2020/10/22/motor-vehicle-excise-tax/.
Step 7: Receive Your License Plate and Registration
After your application has been processed, you will receive your license plate and registration in the mail. Make sure to keep these documents in a safe place, as you will need them to prove that your car is registered and legally allowed to be driven on New Mexico roads.
Conclusion
Registering a car bought in a private owner car sale in NM is a simple process, but it does require some paperwork and fees. By following these steps, you can ensure that your car is properly registered and legally allowed to be driven in the state. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact your local MVD office for assistance or visit: https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/vehicles/vehicle-registration/register-your-vehicle/ for more information.
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
Start your transaction with Caramel, learn more about how the process works, or reach out to our Support team with any questions.
