A person desiring to inspect public records may submit a request to the record's custodian orally or in writing. However, the procedures and penalties prescribed by the Act apply only to written requests. A written request must contain the name, address, and telephone number of the person making the request. Written requests may be submitted in person or sent via US mail, or email. The request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable the record's custodian to identify and locate the requested records.

The record's custodian must permit inspection immediately or as soon as practicable, but no later than 15 calendar days after the records custodian receives the inspection request. If inspection is not permitted within three business days, the person making the request will receive a written response explaining when the records will be available for inspection or when the public body will respond to the request. If any of the records sought are not available for public inspection, the person making the request is entitled to a written response from the record's custodian explaining the reasons the inspection has been denied. The written denial shall be delivered or mailed within 15 calendar days after the records custodian receives the request for inspection.

For general information about the IPRA compliance process, please view the New Mexico Department of Justice Compliance Guide.