Master New Mexico Gun Laws & Firearms Safety 2026 – Lock, Load, and Be Ready!

To purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer in New Mexico, it is necessary to undergo a background check and provide a valid New Mexico identification. This requirement is part of the state laws aimed at ensuring responsible gun ownership and enhancing public safety. The background check helps to confirm that the buyer is legally eligible to own a firearm, which includes a review of criminal history and other disqualifying factors.

While proof of residency or specific identification may seem relevant, the specific combination of a background check along with a New Mexico ID ensures that the dealer can verify both the identity and the legal status of the buyer in a responsible manner. Other forms of identification or proof of residency alone do not fulfill the legal requirements set forth for purchasing firearms.