Driving in Mexico

What do I need to drive legally in Mexico?

Your US, Canadian or European driver’s license is valid in Mexico. It is recommended you carry valid photo identification (drivers license and passport). You will need a tourist visa if you are going more than 80 miles past the border or staying more than three days. As of January 2008 you will need your passport to reenter the US. Keep your passport and valuables in a safe place at all times and keep your identification with you. If you are making frequent trips to Baja, consider getting a SENTRI pass which is a “fast pass” with special lanes for rapid crossing.
US Passport Information
US Border SENTRI Program

Driving suggestions and how to get help if you need it

When Driving in Mexico limit you driving to daylight hours if possible and toll ("cuota") highways are by far the best roads and the most secure.  The free ("libre") roads are often necessary but stick to the well traveled ones. If you make overnight stops at major centers, reputable hotels, or secure campsites are recommended. Petty crimes such as theft are higher in Mexico.
In case of a vehicle breakdown or roadside emergency, a highway service offered by the Mexican Ministry of Tourism is called the "Green Angels" (Angeles Verdes). They provide free assistance (charge for parts only) on all major toll highways throughout Mexico. This is the big advantage of the toll roads. The telephone number is 5250-8221 (collect calls will be accepted - dial 01 and the area code before the number for Baja). In an emergency, call the Mexican Ministry of Tourism's 24-hour toll-free hotline at 01-800-903-9200 or 078.
Mexican Ministry of Tourism

Highway and Driving Conditions

Highway conditions in general are good in the populated areas. However, unmarked or poorly marked streets, short exit and off ramps, slow moving vehicles, people crossing highways pose hazards. The Mexican styles of driving and road standards are very different. Be aware of vehicles which do not observe speed limits (up and down), vehicles changing lanes without any indication and drivers that go around you on the shoulder or even turn in front of you. Going through red lights is very common. In a nutshell the most assertive driver usually gets the right of way…not the one who has the right of way.
Looking at directions and maps before you go can help you navigate more confidently the first few times you drive to Baja and be sure to purchase Mexican driving insurance.
Mexican Driving Insurance

General Tips for Driving in Mexico

1. When Driving Mexico speed limits are stated in kilometers so speed limits will appear higher than they are (1 mile = 1.6 kilometers).
2. Allow more deceleration time before off ramps which tend to be short and get back on the roads carefully as acceleration ramps are often short and have no shoulder.
3. Keep your vehicle is in top mechanical condition when driving In Mexico, especially the suspension and tires.
4. In many cases, the "fast lane" is a passing lane only. Common practice is for vehicles to move to the right lane once they have passed.
5. Don't rely only on brake lights or rear lights on the vehicle in front of you as your warning to slow down. There are so many old, slow moving vehicles in disrepair that they often do not have any rear lights. Be especially careful at night.
6. If you are rear ended, it is assumed you are at fault (the opposite of California)
7. If you have a choice, when driving into Mexico take toll roads vs. the free ("Libre") roads. Toll roads are much safer and in better shape. In addition, toll roads have emergency vehicles and tow truck usually within close range.

Gas in Mexico

Gas stations in Mexico are state-owned by the nationalized petroleum company PEMEX.  All gas stations are strictly full-service – there is no self serve. PEMEX accepts Mexican Pesos and U.S. Dollars and fills vehicles in liters. Credit cards are not accepted.
You can use either U.S. Dollars for Mexican Pesos to gas up in Mexico.  Be sure to get out of your car and observe the attendant. Make sure the fuel pump is set to $0.00 when you begin fueling. Also, pay attention to how much change you should receive in return when paying for your fuel. Gas station attendants have been known to intentionally give tourists the incorrect amount of change. Gasoline is sold in liters (1 gallon = 3.79 liters).
Gas Station attendants have assigned pumps, are very prompt and will do your windows. They DO NOT receive a salary or an hourly wage; they depend on tips to earn a living so always give them something for their service.
The grades of gasoline are:

1. PEMEXMagna is unleaded gasoline - 87 octane.
2. PEMEXPremium is unleaded gasoline - 93 octane.
3. PEMEX Diesel for diesel engines.