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If you have been in the U.S. for a while and don't have an official ID from the American government, the High-Security Consular ID (Matrícula Consular de Alta Seguridad, MCAS) is the most useful document you can have. More than 350 banks, credit unions and companies accept it as valid identification, and in several states you can use it to apply for your driver's license.
Here is everything you need to know about it, with information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores) and the Mexican consulates. No fluff.
What exactly is the Matrícula Consular?
It is an official identification document issued by Mexican consulates abroad. It certifies your identity and your Mexican nationality. Its current format was introduced in 2014 with advanced security features:
- Multilayer holograms
- Cryptographic chip
- Visible and invisible ink
- Security elements verifiable with special readers
It is valid for 5 years and can be obtained by any Mexican citizen living abroad, regardless of immigration status.
Important: The MCAS is NOT an immigration document. It does not prove that you have legal status in the U.S., it is not a visa or a residency permit. It is solely a proof of nationality.
What it's for (and what it isn't)
✅ It does work for
- Opening a bank account in the U.S.
- Applying for a driver's license in several states
- Identifying yourself to local police
- Cashing checks
- Sending and receiving remittances (Western Union, MoneyGram)
- Signing up for utilities (electricity, gas, internet)
- Enrolling your children in school
- Getting a library card
- Applying for an ITIN with the IRS
- Opening an account at a Mexican bank from the U.S.*
❌ It does not work for
- Proving legal immigration status
- Boarding commercial flights in the U.S. (it is not a REAL ID)
- Voting in American elections
- Replacing the passport to enter Mexico
- Obtaining American federal benefits
*Some Mexican banks have stopped accepting it for opening remote accounts. Check directly with the bank before doing the procedure.
Banks and institutions that accept the consular ID in the U.S.
More than 350 financial institutions across the country accept it. The best known:
| Bank / Institution | Accepts MCAS |
|---|---|
| Bank of America | ✅ Yes |
| Wells Fargo | ✅ Yes |
| JP Morgan Chase | ✅ Yes |
| Citibank | ✅ Yes |
| HSBC | ✅ Yes |
| Banco Popular | ✅ Yes |
| Credit Unions | ✅ Most do |
Policies can change. Before going to the bank, call to confirm that they accept the MCAS as a form of identification to open an account.
Driver's license: which states accept it
These are some of the states where the consular ID has historically been accepted to apply for a driver's license. Policies change, so verify with your state's DMV:
- California – AB 60, the law allows licenses for undocumented residents. It accepts the consular ID as one of the forms of identification.
- New York – Accepts the MCAS in combination with other documents.
- Illinois – Has a license program for undocumented residents (Temporary Visitor Driver's License).
- Connecticut – Accepts the MCAS as a supporting ID.
- New Jersey, Colorado, Nevada, Utah and other states with inclusive license programs.
Requirements to get the consular ID
You must present the following documents in their original form at the consulate for your district:
1. Proof of Mexican nationality
Any of these options:
- Mexican passport, valid or expired
- Mexican birth certificate (original, not a plain copy)
- Military service card (cartilla militar)
- Professional license (cédula profesional)
- Certificate of nationality
2. Proof of identity (photo)
Any of these options:
- Mexican passport with photo
- Voter ID card (INE/IFE)
- Any official photo ID
3. Proof of address in the U.S.
It must be from the area that consulate covers (assigned counties). Any of these:
- Electricity, gas or water bill in your name
- Bank statement
- Lease agreement
- A document from the IRS, your children's school, or a hospital/clinic
- No more than 3 months old
The procedure requires an appointment. You cannot walk in without an appointment to get the consular ID.
How to book the appointment
- Go to citas.sre.gob.mx
- Select "Matrícula Consular" as the type of procedure
- Choose your consulate (the one that covers your county)
- Select a date and time
You can also call 1-877-639-4835 (MEXITEL, toll-free from the U.S.) to schedule by phone.
The cost varies by consulate. Most charge between $30 and $50 USD. Bring cash or ask which payment methods they accept.
Consular assistant
Still have a question?
Ask the assistant about your specific case: requirements, timings and what to do when what you need is not explained anywhere.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get the consular ID even if I have a U.S. passport?
Yes. Having American citizenship does not make you lose your Mexican nationality. If you were born in Mexico, you are still Mexican and you can get the consular ID.
Does the consular ID expire? Can I renew it?
Yes, it expires after 5 years. You can renew it by going to the consulate with the same documents. It is advisable to renew it before it expires so you don't lose access to banking services.
Does the consulate report to ICE when I get the consular ID?
No. The Mexican consulate does not share information about your procedures with U.S. immigration authorities. The privacy of your data is protected by the Vienna Convention and Mexican data protection laws.
Do I have to go to the consulate assigned to my district?
Yes, for the consular ID it is important to go to the consulate for your area because one of the requirements is proof of address within the district. If you present an address from another state, they may deny the procedure.