Insurance
Foreign car insurance does NOT cover you in Mexico. You must buy a Mexican policy (separate from any rental insurance), which the rental company will offer or which you can buy from Baja Bound or Mexican Insurance Store.
Driving without Mexican liability insurance is a criminal offence — at-fault accidents can mean jail until civil damages are settled.
Toll roads (cuotas)
Mexico has two highway networks: cuotas (toll roads) and libres (free roads). Cuotas are well-maintained and faster but can be expensive.
Military checkpoints
You will pass through military and Guardia Nacional checkpoints. They're routine. Be polite, hand over passports if asked, and let them search the car if requested.
Night driving
Don't do it. Cattle on roads, no road lighting, and most carjackings happen after dark. Plan to arrive at your destination by 5pm.
Speed limits
Posted in km/h. Cuotas are usually 110, libres 80, towns 40. Photo radar is rare but speed bumps (topes) are everywhere.
Renting
Use Discover Cars or rent direct from a major brand at the airport. Avoid Yelloh and unrecognized local brands — they're notorious for upselling.
Insurance
Foreign car insurance does NOT cover you in Mexico. You must buy a Mexican policy (separate from any rental insurance), which the rental company will offer or which you can buy from Baja Bound or Mexican Insurance Store.
Driving without Mexican liability insurance is a criminal offence — at-fault accidents can mean jail until civil damages are settled.
Toll roads (cuotas)
Mexico has two highway networks: cuotas (toll roads) and libres (free roads). Cuotas are well-maintained and faster but can be expensive.
Military checkpoints
You will pass through military and Guardia Nacional checkpoints. They're routine. Be polite, hand over passports if asked, and let them search the car if requested.
Night driving
Don't do it. Cattle on roads, no road lighting, and most carjackings happen after dark. Plan to arrive at your destination by 5pm.
Speed limits
Posted in km/h. Cuotas are usually 110, libres 80, towns 40. Photo radar is rare but speed bumps (topes) are everywhere.
Renting
Use Discover Cars or rent direct from a major brand at the airport. Avoid Yelloh and unrecognized local brands — they're notorious for upselling.