Driving To Mexico
Mexico can be a fun and interesting country to visit. When you are so close to the border it seems a shame to not take advantage of it and visit a bit of Mexico. It’s a great idea, and a great opportunity. However, it is important to know a few things before driving to Mexico. Just like in any other country there are rules and regulations you must follow carefully before driving, so keep reading for a few tips on what you should know.
Check with your Rental Company if driving to Mexico is allowed.
If you are renting a car, the first step to take is ask your rental company if you are allowed to drive out of the US to Mexico with the car. Some rental companies refuse to let you cross the border driving. However, Fox Rent A Car allows you to take your economy to full size category rental car to Mexico, after you have have purchased a special Mexico insurance through Fox Rent A Car.
What do you need to drive in Mexico?
– Car registration: You need to bring your car registration, when you want to drive a car into Mexico. If it is not under your name, you must be in possession of an authorized letter stating you are granted the right to take the car into Mexico. You will receive this letter, when you purchase your insurance with Fox Rent A Car.
– Passport: Americans used to be able to cross the border to Mexico with their ID card or drivers license. However, since June 1, 2009 US citizens are required to have a valid passport to cross the border or they will be refused to reenter the United States at the border.
– Visa: Depending on how far you want to venture into Mexico and how long you are staying, you might be required to get a visa before driving to Mexico. If you are planning on staying in Mexico for less than 72 hours and not driving further than about 70 miles away from the border, then you just need your passport. If you want to stay longer or go further you must get a tourist card from the Mexican embassy. If you are visiting for business you need to get the authorization form FM-N that allows you to stay for 30 days.
– Special permits: If you are driving beyond the “border zone” (the 70 miles allowance) you must get a special permit, called a temporary import permit. You can get it at the Mexican consulates or the Mexican Army Bank. However, if you wish to do this, be prepared because you will need to present a lot of paperwork, for example: drivers license, proof of citizenship, title of the car, and registration. If you don’t have it, you won’t be able to get the permit.
– Insurance Requirements:Through your personal insurance might cover you in every country your drive, Mexican authorities do not accept insurance that are not from Mexico. You have to buy a specific car insurance before crossing the border, or you will not be insured in case of an accident. Fox Rent A Car will only allow you to take your car to Mexico, if you buy the Fox insurance for Mexico.
Things to know when driving in Mexico.
– Driving in Mexico can be risky: Be very careful when driving in Mexico, if you are only used to American roads, as traffic can be wild and seem chaotic. Although it may seem that no one is following rules, they do exist. The roads are not always well maintained. You may see pot holes in the roads, as well as rocks. Be sure to respect the speed limit and keep your eyes open. Sometimes in rural areas the fencing system is inefficient allowing animals to meander into traffic. Be aware of cattle on the road. Toll roads are recommended as they are often well maintained. Be prepared for check points, they happen more often you might expect.
– There are times to avoid at the Border to drive in Mexico: There are a lot of people who live in Mexico and commute to the United States for work. So starting at 5 AM in the morning the border gets very busy, until about 8 AM. Then again at night, when everyone gets off work. Just like regular commuter traffic, expect the border to Mexico to be busy at the same time. Sometimes it depends on which border crossing you choose. Weekends are always incredibly busy.
Diving to Mexico requires preparation. Make sure you are doing everything required from you to do before getting behind the wheel in a foreign country, especially if you do not speak the language. Study your itinerary well before leaving and follow the driving rules, it will keep you safe and out of trouble.
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