FBI & State Background Check – Fingerprint Instructions

Please note that fingerprinting is not required for bar examinees who do not intend to be licensed in New Mexico.

For in-state applicants

In-state applicants do not need fingerprint cards and will be fingerprinted digitally at an authorized fingerprinting site. Out-of-state applicants visiting New Mexico may also be printed in state using this process.

1. Register online at the Gemalto website [link] by selecting the Register Online for a Background Check link. Use the ORI Lookup button to enter this Board’s ORI number, which is NM920150Z. In the Reason drop box select 34-2-9 State Bar Licensure. Please note: Cogent ID requires that you use Internet Explorer as your browser in order to sign up online. Download Internet Explorer for free here.
2. Payment may be made online at the time of registration or you may send a cashier’s check or money order made payable to 3M Cogent for $44.00. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.
3. Once you finish the registration process, you will receive a Registration ID. Bring this number with you to one of the fingerprinting locations found on the Cogent ID website.
4. You can visit a Cogent ID fingerprinting location without an appointment. They will send the final reports directly to us.

For out-of-state applicants

Please submit the requested information and the instructions and fingerprint cards will be sent to you via U.S. Mail. Do not print out and mail this form.