New Mexico Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney
A New Mexico motor vehicle power of attorney (Form MVD-11020) is completed to give an attorney-in-fact the authority to represent a vehicle owner when performing tasks. Responsibilities can include (but are not limited to) signing documents, buying or selling the vehicle, transferring the title, requesting a duplicate title, or applying for a registration and title. The owner must discuss the requested duties with the attorney-in-fact before signing. At that time, the attorney-in-fact must ask questions or voice concerns. To prevent mistakes and misunderstandings, the owner must ensure the attorney-in-fact is transparent and honest.
The motor vehicle power of attorney expires: 1) when the attorney-in-fact completes the duties, 2) if the document reaches its termination date, 3) thirty (30) days after the vehicle owner becomes incapacitated (if applicable), 4) if the vehicle owner dies, or 5) the owner revokes it by completing a revocation form. If any of these situations occur, the owner’s representative must immediately inform the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) New Mexico of the changes. Notifying the MVD allows them to dispose of the document so that the attorney-in-fact can no longer act for the owner.
The form must include the name of the owner and attorney-in-fact, the type of transaction, and the vehicle’s make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN). The person writing the document must ensure that the information is accurate and true. According to New Mexico law, the state can charge a vehicle owner with perjury (a fourth-degree felony) if they include false information in the motor vehicle power of attorney. Once signed, the owner cannot change the details in the form. Instead, they must create a new document, which cancels the original copy.
Signing requirements: Vehicle Owner and Notary Public must sign.
How to Write
Download: PDF
Step 1 – Owner and Agent Information
Write the car owner’s first and last name on the first line, followed by the name of the agent (attorney-in-fact). Briefly state the type of transaction the owner is authorizing the agent to perform (i.e., sale of car).
Step 2 – Vehicle Specifications
To ensure the agent has authority over the vehicle, enter the car’s make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Step 3 – Owner Printed Name and Signature
The owner must print and sign their name, in addition to writing the date.
Step 4 – Notarization
New Mexico state law requires that a Notary Public witness the owner’s signature AND complete the associated section of the form.
