What to Know Before You Drive to Mexico
Like millions of Americans every year, you’re preparing for a drive to Mexico. Before you go, you need to do your research. If you intend to drive into Mexico, be prepared. Before crossing the border or driving in the interior of Mexico, you’ll want to have these important things.
Know what you can’t bring
Before you drive into Mexico, it’s important to know the entry regulations regarding prohibited and restricted items. Unlike the U.S., Mexico has stringent laws against certain items like firearms, ammunition, and knives with blades over four inches. Also, items like certain plants, animal products, and even some foods require specific permits or proper packaging. Knowing these rules before your trip can help ensure a smooth travel experience.
The Basics – Bring Your Driver’s License
The most basic of documents you’ll need when you go to Mexico is your driver’s license. Both American and Canadian driver’s licenses are recognized in the United States of Mexico. So, you can drive legally on Mexican roads. However, all U.S. and Canadian citizens who plan to drive in Mexico are required to carry a valid driver’s license.
Additionally, your driver’s license is a requirement for your auto insurance coverage. So, before you go to Mexico, make sure you have your driver’s license, and carry it with you at all times.
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You’ll Need Proper Identification
When traveling to Mexico you must have a valid passport. If you don’t have a passport, an acceptable alternative would be a passport card or your green card.
Before you drive to Mexico, you can always get the official and most up-to-date requirements for traveling to Mexico at the Embassy of Mexico, or give them a call at (202) 736-1000.
Pro Tip: Re-entry to the U.S.
Re-entry back into the U.S. will also require your passport, passport card, or green card. If you plan to go to Mexico and don’t have a valid passport, you will need to apply before you travel to Mexico. Note, that the passport application process is not fast. It may take 1 -4 months to complete, and in some instances, it can take longer. Make sure to start the process early. If you need more information about getting your passport or expedition procedures and expenses, go to www.travel.state.gov.
Will You Need a Mexican Visa?
Most visitors to Mexico, especially those who intend to drive, are traveling for a short time. If you’re a citizen of the U.S. or Canada and will be visiting for less than 180 days, you will not need a visa. This rule applies to normal forms of travel:
- Tourism
- Business
- Journalism
- Academic studies
However, if you intend to stay in Mexico for longer than 180 days, you will need a tourist visa.
Get a Tourist Permit (Mexican Visa)
Everyone traveling to Mexico is required to obtain a tourist permit. The permit is called a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (translations: Multiple Migratory Form) (“FMM”). You must keep this document with you at all times while traveling in Mexico. In fact, from time to time there may be random inspections of tourists traveling in the interior of Mexico. If you are subject to one of these inspections, you may be required to present your FMM. Don’t be caught without it.
If you intend to stay for less than seven (7) days, the FMM is free of charge. For travelers intending to stay longer, the most recent cost is $32 or $638 pesos.
When driving into Mexico, you can obtain an FMM at your port of entry into Mexico. There are also online resources to get your FMM.
Not only is the FMM a requirement for entry into Mexico, but there are also other very good reasons to get your FMM:
- You may need it to have your Mexican insurance claims approved.
- Without an FMM, you may delay your re-entry into the U.S.
- The FMM is required if you need an emergency flight back into the U.S.
Purchase Mexico Tourist Auto Insurance
This may be one of the most important items to get before you drive to Mexico. Mexico auto insurance is a must if you’re going to drive your U.S. or Canadian-registered vehicle into Mexico. Your domestic auto insurance is not considered legal liability insurance coverage in the United Mexican States. In fact, even if you have a limited Mexico endorsement on your current auto insurance policy, typically that coverage will not provide liability and is not valid beyond a few miles over the border. Not sure? Check with your insurance agent or company to get clarification.
If you’re still not sure, even the U.S. State Department strongly recommends that you purchase a Mexico Tourist Auto Insurance policy that will provide liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage, as well as the legal expense and bail bonds protection required in Mexico when you’re determined at fault.
When shopping for Mexico auto insurance, it’s highly recommended to only use, financially secure, +A-rated Mexcian insurance carriers. This isn’t a time to get the “cheap” option.
Mexico Covered can help. You can quote and buy online with our +A-rated providers in just minutes. All policies bought through us, online or through an insurance agent, come with travel assistance coverage, as well as bail bond, medical, roadside, auto & personal legal assistance.
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Quote, Buy & Print
Select a product to quote.
- CHUBB,GNP, & EL AGUILA
- Auto
- Home
- Motorcycle
- Boat
- Mobile Home
- AIG & CHUBB
- Auto
- Motorcycle
- Mobile Home
- TRAVEL COVERAGE
- Travel Insurance
- Quote, Buy & Print
Select a product to quote: - Chubb, GNP & El Aguila
- Chubb & AIG
Or call: (877) 334-7646
Get a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit
If you don’t want hassles, to pay expensive fines, to get sent back to the border, or to have your vehicle confiscated, you should get a temporary vehicle importation permit (“TIP”). Simply put, if you’re crossing the border in your vehicle, you need to get a TIP.
Sure, if you plan to remain in the border zone, or what is called the “free zone,” you are not required to get a TIP. However, you will be limited to the border zone. If you intend to drive into Mexico or don’t want to be limited to the border zone, then you’ll need a TIP.
What is the border zone, or “free zone?” Presently, the border zone, where you do not need a TIP to drive is the Baja Peninsula and most of the state of Sonora.
The TIP is not difficult to get, but there will be a fee. The current rate for a temporary vehicle importation permit is approximately $51 if purchased at the border. You can save $5 if you purchase the permit online. However you elect to purchase the TIP, you’ll have to pay a tax.
In addition to the fee and tax, you will also have to pay a refundable deposit. The deposit is refunded upon cancellation of the permit at the Banjercito offices. As long as you return before the expiration of your permit, there should be no additional costs.
Apply online now through the Banjercito Website