New Mexico uses the county clerk to issue and record marriages. Since there are thirty three counties, this means there are thirty three places where you can get a wedding license. Generally, the county clerk’s office is open 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, not including federal holidays. Some places may take a partial day off due to special events so it is always wise to call ahead.
A marriage license issued in New Mexico is good anywhere in New Mexico, so one issued is Donna Anna County is good in Taos, Santa Fe or Harding county. The license is good ONLY in New Mexico! However, a marriage in New Mexico is recognized in all 50 states. Once issued a New Mexico marriage license NEVER expires, so you can get one in January and use it in December or even several years later.
To obtain a marriage license you will need two forms of identification per individual. Driver’s license and social security card will work just fine. The state does allow other forms of ID, such as passport, cross boarder card, military ID, Native American Certificate of Indian Blood, tax forms such as 1040 or 1040 ez. Out of state documents are fine, you do not have to be a resident of New Mexico to get a New Mexico marriage license.
The process is pretty straightforward, you fill in an application, present your identification and submit your fee of $25 (by state Law). Remember, both parties have to appear at the same time to be issued your marriage license. You will receive a license/certificate, one side is the license and the other is the certificate. The license empowers the officiant to preform the ceremony. The Wedding certificate is the formal record of the marriage and is returned to the county of issue to be recorded.
Once the wedding is preformed and the certificate signed, it must be returned to the issuing county in person or via mail. You may get extra certified copies from the county clerk for $3.00 each. You will need them for things like Social Security, Motor vehicle department, employer Human Resources, bank accounts, real estate transactions, anywhere you need proof that you are now a married couple.
If you use Bernalillo county you can fill in the application online, but you still need to appear in person to present your identification and pay your fee. The link is https://eagleweb.bernco.gov/recorder/web/