The ‘Chile Capital of the World’ license plate. Courtesy photo

STATE News:

SANTA FE – Today, Gov. Susana Martinez announced that more than 17,000 Chile License Plates were issued in the first three weeks of availability.

The plates are available now at all MVD offices and online. The license plate declares New Mexico as the “Chile Capital of the World,” reflecting New Mexico’s status as the world leader in chile quality and production. 

“The world loves New Mexico chile,” Martinez said. “It’s exciting that so many New Mexicans are taking advantage of our new license plate that showcases a key element of our state’s culture that we are so proud of.”

The Chile License plate is a standard plate and requires no additional fees on registration – unlike a specialty plate, which would require an additional fee of $35. For drivers with a current registration who choose to switch to the Chile License Plate, a $17 in office or $7.75 online replacement fee is required. Drivers with specialty plates can switch to the Chile License Plate for $ 7.75 online or $5 in an office. Online orders will be mailed to customers in 5-7 business days.

“It’s no surprise that a plate depicting one of New Mexico’s most unique cultural icons is so popular,” Acting Secretary Monforte said. “New Mexicans are proud to represent New Mexico’s status as the Chile Capital of the World.”

Due to the popularity of the Chile Plate, MVD will open the mobile unit for three days next week to process chile plate transactions only. The MVD Mobile Unit will be open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 8, 9 and 10 to process applications for the new chile plate. The MVD Mobile Unit will be at Melloy Dodge in Albuquerque, 9621 Coors Blvd NW. 

To order a new chile license plate, visit the Motor Vehicle Division online at www.mvd.newmexico.gov or visit a local MVD field office.