How to drive in Mexico
Most international driver's licenses are recognized in Mexico. If your license expires and you are a resident of Mexico, you will discover that obtaining a Mexican driver's license is quick and simple.
Simply go to the local Transportation Secretary's office (Secretaria de Movilidad in Spanish) with your passport, resident card, proof of residency, and cash to pay the charge, which varies by state and costs between 600 and 1,000 pesos (USD $28 to USD $47). In Mexico, there are presently no driving exams.
General information
The topes, or speed bumps, are likely to be the first thing you notice when driving in Mexico. They may be found anywhere, from small-town streets to major thoroughfares, and are sometimes poorly designated. Keep an eye out for them, especially at night, because hitting one forcefully might result in a flat tire.
Another factor to consider is parking. Although street parking is prevalent (even in no-parking zones), parking lots are significantly safer. They are simple to locate and typically affordable, costing approximately 15 pesos per hour. Valet parking is also frequent at restaurants and nightclubs.
Many highways in Mexico, particularly in major cities, contain perplexing signage. It's a good idea to get a navigation app like Waze to assist you in navigating around. If you become lost, don't be hesitant to ask for directions; Mexicans are often pleasant and eager to assist.
Road restrictions are a little different in Mexico, and many drivers are highly aggressive. It's a good idea to take it slowly and keep an eye out for those who disregard red lights and stop signs.
Toll and free highways in Mexico
In Mexico, there are two types of highways: tolled and untolled. Toll roads are often in good shape and safe for use both during the day and at night. Although they can be costly, insurance is included in the toll, so if you break down, a mechanic will come to your aid for free. Bring lots of cash for tolls, or if you intend on traveling a lot, you can purchase a little tag to pay the tolls electronically, at a Sanborn restaurant, or online. This tool allows you to calculate the cost of tolls for your desired travel.
Freeways, on the other hand, are frequently poorly maintained and inconvenient. They may travel through tiny communities with no street signs, requiring you to ask for instructions to get back on track. They are also dangerous in many regions of Mexico, especially the states of Michoacan and Guerrero, as well as locations along the northern border. Always use toll highways whenever possible, and if you must use a free highway, attempt to gather some information about its present state and avoid traveling at night.
City driving
Driving in cities may often be perplexing, especially with high traffic. Check your route carefully before driving into a large Mexican city. Mexico City, in particular, is easy to become disoriented in. Avoid driving in Mexico City if at all feasible; instead, utilize the metro or other public forms of transportation.
Renting a car in Mexico
All of the main vehicle rental firms are present in Mexico, with several having kiosks at major airports. You may discover fantastic rental vehicle bargains on travel companies like expedia.com, but keep in mind that the auto insurance they provide is not valid in Mexico. When you pick up the automobile, you will have to pay extra for insurance. So, a smart option is to go straight to the websites of automobile rental companies and ensure that the insurance they provide will cover you in Mexico.
Unless you are a legal resident, you are, officially speaking, not allowed to buy a car. Of course, you can do it, but most likely, you will run into some troubles when looking for insurance, as no national company will accept your coverage if you are not a resident.
Driving from the U.S.
It's no problem if you want to drive your vehicle into Mexico from the United States, but you must first obtain a temporary import permission for $US 29.70 (tax). These are easily obtained at the border or in Banjercito.
You should also get travel insurance to be covered during your time in Mexico. Most border crossings provide insurance for purchase. Here's an example of an insurance firm.
Petrol in Mexico
Until 2017, all Mexican gas stations were owned by the same government entity, Pemex, and pricing was consistent throughout the nation. Mexico has now opened up to competing gas stations, yet pricing remains comparable.
In Mexico, you do not pump your own gas; instead, an attendant does so. Before they begin pumping petrol, double-check that the numbers on the gas pump are at $0.00. Overcharging clients by already having money on the machine is a typical fraud. Also, remember to leave a little gratuity, generally about five or ten pesos, for the attendant.
In case you are involved in a car crash
If you are engaged in an accident, follow the recommended safety procedures: To alert others, place an emergency triangle in the accident zone, check in with wounded persons, and dial 911. Most importantly, try to stay as calm as possible.
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