The New Mexico Secretary of State’s Office, working with the Taxation and Revenue Department’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), has launched automatic voter registration (AVR) at all MVD locations across the state. The initiative began on July 1, 2025, and in its first week has registered or updated the registrations of 8,487 New Mexicans.
Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver stated, “This is a major step forward for voter access and election modernization in New Mexico. AVR makes voter registration faster, more accurate, and more secure. By reducing paperwork and ensuring more eligible voters are on the rolls, we’re saving taxpayer money and making our democracy more accessible, all while keeping New Mexico’s best-in-the-nation elections safe and secure.”
Previously, customers at MVD offices could choose to register or update their voter information during transactions. With AVR now in place, eligible individuals are automatically registered when they renew or apply for a driver’s license or other credential. Voter records are also updated when names or addresses change at the MVD.
The system screens out those not eligible to vote under state law—such as non-U.S. citizens or those under 18—and these individuals will not be registered. Those who complete registration receive a mailer from their county clerk explaining how to change political affiliation or opt out if desired.
Stephanie Schardin Clarke, Secretary of Taxation and Revenue, said: “Modernizing government services is a key priority for our department, and AVR is a perfect example of technology enhancing the customer experience. We’re proud to partner with the Secretary of State’s Office to implement this efficient and secure solution.”
Automatic voter registration was included in the New Mexico Voting Rights Act signed into law in 2023. More than two dozen states and Washington D.C. have adopted similar systems. Early results from states such as Minnesota show benefits like shorter polling lines, improved accuracy in registration data, and better access for groups that have been underrepresented.
Eligibility requirements for AVR include being a U.S. citizen, residing in New Mexico, and being at least 18 years old by the next election.
Further details about automatic voter registration can be found on the Secretary of State’s website: sos.nm.gov/avr.
