7 Things to Know Before Driving in Mexico
- Be completely aware of your surroundings.
- Stick to the toll roads (“cuotas”)
- Learn the different road elements.
- Drive during daylight.
- Understand that turn signals may be used for different purposes.
- Know about driving on the shoulder.
- Expect to communicate with U.S. Customs.
Contents
Is driving in Mexico Difficult?
Driving at night in Mexico is particularly challenging. Lighting on many highways is non-existent; livestock have the habit of wandering on the road; and it’s difficult to observe hazards, such as potholes and debris.These are Mexican speed bumps. You don’t want to hit these at full speed.
Is a US driver’s license valid in Mexico?
An American driver’s license is accepted in Mexico, though consider having it translated into Spanish (and nine other languages) by getting an International Driver’s Permit.Remember to carry the US driver’s license along with the International Driver’s Permit when driving in Mexico.
What do you need to drive through Mexico?
Driving to Mexico
- U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book or card, in addition to an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM).
- Travelers should be sure to enter Mexico with valid proof of automobile registration, even if remaining in the border zone.
Is it safe to drive in Mexico with US plates?
When you drive your American (or Canadian) registered vehicle into Mexico from the USA you will need to buy insurance and fill out the required paperwork either at the border or before you leave. You may also need to purchase a Temporary Import Permit for your vehicle.
How fast can you drive in Mexico?
90 km/h (56 mph) on two-lane highways. 90–100 km/h (56–62 mph) on major highways inside cities. 100 km/h (62 mph) on major highways leaving or approaching towns or cities. 110 km/h (68 mph) on major highways.
Is it worth driving to Mexico?
The Pacific coast of the country is easily the most beautiful drive I have ever taken and, despite the rough-around-the-edges experience, it is definitely worth the experience. From tiny towns with chickens running around to the largest and busiest city in the Americas, driving through Mexico is a massive undertaking.
Do you need insurance to drive in Mexico?
You need to carry Mexican auto insurance to drive legally in the country, as liability coverage is mandatory.It is generally recommended, based on Mexican laws for possible payouts for bodily injury or fatality, that drivers get a minimum of about $300,000 worth of third-party liability damage coverage.
How long can US citizens stay in Mexico?
180 days
As an American, you can stay in Mexico for six months (or 180 days) at a time with a “visitor’s visa” — everyone over age 16 who travels to Mexico with a US passport automatically enjoys this option. You will be given this document before you arrive in the country (either via plane or at a border crossing).
Can I drive my car to Mexico?
Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit: To drive your car into Mexico, outside the border area or free zone, you’ll need a permit which you can get on arrival at the border or purchase online 7 to 60 days prior to your trip.
Do you get stopped driving into Mexico?
If you are crossing the Mexican border by car and you plan to travel outside the free or border zone you must obtain a temporary vehicle importation permit. Failure to do so puts you at risk of expensive fines and/or having your vehicle confiscated by Mexican customs officials.
How safe is it to drive in Mexico?
Driving in Mexico, in general, is perfectly safe and like I mentioned above, is one of the best ways to see the country. A few tips I stick to when driving in Mexico are to avoid driving at night. If you are traveling between cities or other rural areas, stick to the daytime.
Can you drive in and out of Mexico?
Mexico is open to international travel, encouraging only “essential travel” at the land border crossings. Air travel is not affected by these restrictions. US Citizens, US legal residents, dual citizens, Mexico Legal Residents, are allowed to enter Mexico, and will be allowed to cross back to the US.
What is the safest border crossing into Mexico?
By and large, Nuevo Progreso is probably the safest choice of all Mexican border towns that lie across from the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. The bottom line to personal safety when traveling is using good judgment and common sense.
Can you take a gun to Mexico?
No, Mexican Federal Law strictly forbids possession of any firearms or ammunition without proper authorization by the Mexican authorities and is considered a “federal firearms offense”.
How long can I keep my car in Mexico?
Case 1 – CARS TEMPORARY IMPORT
Tourists and Temporary Residents are allowed to bring ONE car per person into Mexico, for their use as long as they keep that immigration status, including renewals. Hence, a tourist can bring a car into Mexico for 90 or 180 days (according to its immigration form).
Is Highway 15 in Mexico safe?
Highway robbery and carjacking are ongoing security concerns for travelers on the Mexican toll road Highway 15 in Sonora and on Maxipista Benito Juarez in Sinaloa.These highways are known to be particularly dangerous at night when roadside robberies occur.
What is Mexico free zone?
The Mexico Free zone encompasses areas along Mexico’s northern and southern borders states, typically 12 to 16 miles from the border (20 to 26 km). Also, the entire Baja peninsula, a large portion of Sonora, and Quintana Roo lie within the free zone.
How do you pay tolls in Mexico?
As of January 1, 2019 tolls in Mexico must be paid in cash, or you must have a ‘tag’ (see next section) in your windscreen to pass through the cashless lanes.
Can you buy Mexican car insurance at the border?
You can purchase Mexican car insurance online or you can get it at the border. Whichever you choose, it’s crucial to buy Mexican car insurance before crossing into Mexico. You may also consider renting a car in Mexico.
How much does car insurance in Mexico cost?
Cost of Mexican Car Insurance
On average, a Mexican auto insurance policy with full coverage will cost you $20.72 per day. Your rates depend on what time of year you’re traveling, your car’s make and model, and how long you’re planning on staying. Unlike in the US, your driving record doesn’t factor into the prices.
