Driving — Mexico
What travelers need to know about driving in Mexico. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
Driving in Mexico: restricted — there are real limits travelers must follow.
Mexican car insurance is required for every vehicle. If you are in an accident without it — even a minor one — you can be arrested, regardless of who was at fault.
Arrest is possible for uninsured drivers in any accident, major or minor, regardless of fault.
§ US State Dept — MexicoVerified Aug 16, 2026
Driving a US-registered vehicle more than about 12 miles into Mexico requires a Temporary Vehicle Import Permit from Banjercito, plus a refundable deposit. Baja California, Baja California Sur and Sonora are exempt.
Driving without the permit can mean towing and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.
§ US State Dept — MexicoVerified Aug 16, 2026
US driver licences are valid in Mexico. It is illegal to drive under the influence, to use a mobile device while driving, or to drive through a yellow light. Aftermarket window tint is generally restricted.
Window-tint violations can lead to fines, towing, or forced removal of the tint.
§ US State Dept — MexicoVerified Aug 16, 2026
Mexico City bans cars on certain days by licence-plate number (Hoy No Circula). Vehicles without Mexico City or State of Mexico plates cannot enter the city Monday to Friday 5am–11am, or Saturday 5am–10pm.
The authorities strictly enforce these rules; offenders face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of the vehicle.
§ UK FCDO — MexicoVerified Aug 16, 2026