What is the Mexico Free Zone?

What is the Mexico Free Zone for?
There are “Free Zones” throughout the world, and they are generally designed to bolster trade and tourism between border nations. Initially created as the “Zona Libre” in 1858, this area of Mexico has changed in size and regulation over the years. Today, for our purposes, we know it simply as the Mexico Free Zone or No-Hassel Zone.
Under the current version of the Free Zone, you are required to get a travel permit (FMM). However, you will not have to get a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP). This is beneficial to travelers driving into Mexico, as it will save you some time and expense. Additionally, it saves hassle for those making last-minute arrangements or frequent visits to the Free Zone.
Prior to 2015, you were not required to have an FMM or TIP to travel in the Mexico Free Zone. Today, all visitors must secure an FMM to travel throughout Mexico. However, there are still two inland locations in Nogales and the Banjercito in Allende/Piedras Negras where you can get both your TIP and FMM, it is highly recommended that you ALWAYS get your FMM at the border.
Where is the Mexico Free Zone?

The free zone spans the entire 1954-mile US border for an area of approximately 12 miles (or 20 kilometers). It also includes the entire Baja peninsula and almost half of Sonora.
The Sonora portion of the free zone is essentially the area northwest of Mexico Federal Highway 2 and west of Mexican Federal Highway 15. Here are some of the popular cities located in the Mexico Free Zone:
- Rosarito
- Mexicali
- Ensenada
- Cabo San Lucas
Pro-Tip:
What are the Free Zone document requirements?
When you are traveling in the Mexico Free Zone, you will still have documents and immigration requirements. The only thing that you are not required to get is the Temporary Importation Permit (TIP). Let’s quickly summarize what you will need to drive your car in the Free Zone:
-
1. Valid Passport
-
If you’re a foreign visitor to Mexico, you are required by law to have a valid passport or passport card. Alternatively, if you’re staying in Mexico as a temporary resident, you can provide your proof of legal residency. Original documents will be required if you are asked to provide travel documents to an authority. Make sure you bring originals with you at all times. You cannot provide a copy.
Pro-Tip:
If you are traveling with a passport card, this is only valid for land travel in the Mexico Free Zone. It is not for travel beyond the free zone and into the greater Mexican United States.
-
2. Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) (AKA Tourist Permit)
-
This is another mandatory form. Each foreign traveler in Mexico has to have a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), and you must have it on you at all times. This applies to both the greater Mexican United States and the Free Zone. If you are planning to visit Mexico you can apply for an FMM online, you will need a valid passport or passport card.
-
3. Mexico Tourist Auto Insurance
-
If you intend to drive your US or Canadian-registered vehicle into Mexico, you must have valid Mexico Auto insurance. Mexico requires everyone to have proof of liability insurance provided by an authorized Mexican insurance carrier.
-
4. Valid Driver’s License
-
When driving your US or Canadian-registered vehicles in Mexico, you will also need to have a valid driver’s license. You must also have this with you at all times, especially when you intend to drive your vehicle.
-
5. Current & Valid Vehicle Registration
-
Generally, the Mexican authorities will not hassle you, however, they do frequently check registration and legal ownership of foreign-plated vehicles. They will be checking to see if the registration is current, that all the numbers match, and validate that you are the proper owner. If you don’t have current registration, your vehicle could be impounded.
-
6. Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (Optional)
-
If you only intend to drive into the Mexico Free Zone, a TIP is not required. However, if there is even a remote chance you could drive outside the Free Zone, you should get a TIP.
This makes sense because you cannot purchase a TIP in the interior of Mexico.
You can apply for a TIP at the border in a Banjercito location. If you prepare in advance, you can apply online. Note, that Banjercito is the official issuing agency for TIP and the only place to get your TIP.
The Bottom Line
If you have never driven your car into Mexico, but want to drive on your next trip. Selecting a destination in the Mexico Free Zone is a great way to enjoy a driving Mexico vacation. There is just a bit less hassle and tons of great locations to explore and fun to be had.
Quote & Buy Mexico Auto Insurance Online

You can quote & buy Mexico Tourist Auto Insurance online. Offered through authorized +A Rated Mexican insurance carriers.
Call today and speak with a professional insurance agent.