Here are the sites for some of the bigger cities. In some smaller towns you will not need an appointment, you can simply walk up to the local module (usually the local police department). Make an appointment though the state’s web portal.In most cases, you will be asked to meet these requirements: Requirements to get a driver’s license in Mexico as a foreignerīefore going to your local module. Some states have stricter rules and have harder driving tests and written exams while others will pretty much hand you a driver’s license in 5 minutes. It is not worth the trouble getting one just for a few weeks or months.Įach state has a slightly different procedure to apply for one. However, your country’s driving license is also valid in Mexico. If you are on a tourist visa you can still apply for one. You can get one regardless of the type of visa you have, but the license will only be valid for the remaining of your current visa or residency duration. Getting a driver’s license in Mexico as a foreigner is quite simple.
How to get a driver’s license in Mexico as a foreigner While your country’s driver’s license allows you to use a car, it does not work as a valid ID. I’d recommend that you also bring your passport with you while driving a car in Mexico. You can drive a car in Mexico as long as you have a valid driver’s license issued in your country of origin. Mexico does not require an International Driving Permit. Some countries require one to operate a car in their territory. Do you need an International Driving Permit in Mexico?Īn International driving permit is an official translation of your local driver’s license. If you plan to rent a car in Mexico, the insurance cost will be included with the price in most agencies.įor expats that are planning to live in Mexico long-term, getting a Mexican driver’s license is worth it. Here you will find the current vehicle import fees and further information. Cross back to the US to have the deposit fee reimbursed. The car must return to its country of origin before this period ends. This will allow you to use the car in the country for a certain period of time (6 months usually). If you plan to drive your car to Mexico, you can purchase the insurance policy through most US insurance agencies.Ī vehicle import permit fee and a warranty deposit are required as well. The car must have a Mexican auto insurance policy.Driver’s licenses are not valid ID documents in Mexico. Bring your passport or some other form of ID to identify yourself.While driving, you should always have with you your US driver’s license.US citizens must follow these guidelines while driving south of the border: However, there are some requirements you will need to keep in mind. You can drive in Mexico with a US driver’s license or a valid license from any other country. Can you drive in Mexico with a US / Canadian / UK driver’s license?
In this guide, I’ll answer all the questions you might have about Mexico drivers license from personal experience. You need to answer all those questions before renting or buying a car to drive on Mexico’s roads so you don’t run into any issues with the authorities and so you can focus on enjoying your stay. Are only Mexican licenses allowed? do they recognize international driving permits? what about people looking to stay long-term?. But that opens a lot of questions if you are coming from another country. Mexican laws require a valid driver’s license for everyone who wants to drive a car in the country.