New Mexico driver's licenses are getting an overhaul to comply with tougher federal identification requirements without forsaking people who are in the country illegally.
The state's Motor Vehicle Division on Monday began issuing two kinds of identification. One is a driver's license that complies with the federal REAL ID Act, and the other is a driving authorization card geared toward immigrants.
Existing driver's licenses will continue to be valid for boarding flights and accessing certain federal facilities until October 2020. Delays are expected nonetheless at Motor Vehicle Division offices.
State officials recommend applicants for the new driver's license bring a birth certificate, social security card and two proofs of residency. Immigrants in the country illegally must submit fingerprints for a background check to obtain a driving authorization card.
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