Driving across the border?
Posted by Melissa Fiddler on January 12, 1997
I need as much information as possible about driving to Mexico. I've heard that this may not be the easiest thing to do. We would be two to three Canadian females. Is this safe? Should I have something special with me if I am driving? Also, I've heard that there is a possibility that one would have to pay to cross. Is this true and if so, how much? If someone could help me by answering these questions or anything else that I should know about if I am driving please let me know. Thank you
Posted by jennifer j. rose on January 16, 1997
If you're driving, you'll be able to temporarily import your car for a 180-day period. At the aduana, you'll need
1) the original certificate of title,
2) an affidavit from the lienholder authorizing the temporary
importation of the car,
3) a valid state registration,
4) a valid driver's license issued outside of Mexico, and
5) Mastercard, VISA or American Express, in the driver's name.
You will use the credit card to pay the $11 fee. If you don't have a credit card, then you'll be required to post a bond based upon the car's value. The car permit is good for multiple crossings during its six-month life. When you apply for the car permit, you're required to sign a promise that when you leave Mexico, you'll take the car with you. You are not permitted to sell the car while you're in Mexico. If the car is stolen or completely wrecked, then you are required to obtain additional documentation and verification from the Mexican government to that effect.
If you're only going to be in the border area, you do not need to undergo the temporary importation process. However, at the 26-km checkpoint, you will not be allowed to proceed southward without the necessary car permit.
Automobile insurance is not required, but you'd be foolish not to have it. Your Canadian or American auto policy won't cover you outside of the border towns.
Driving in Mexico is as safe as you make it. Exercise ordinary prudence, and you'll do just fine. Look for the article in this site which describes the drive from Texas to Guadalajara for driving tips.
Posted by Marvin Kemel on January 14, 1997
You will probably get lots of different answers to your question. That is because rules are never enforced the same way twice in Mexico.
As a fellow Canadian who crosses at least 6 times a year i can give you the following advise. You need the current registration for your car. It must be in your name( not a lease or rental) You MUST have a valid credit card( visa, Mcard, etc.) in the same name as the registration. You will be charged about $11.00 for a permiso. You will sign a paper promising to return the vehicle within 6 months and that you will not sell the car in Mexico. You MUST turn in this paper and the window sticker when you leave Mexico. You do not require a passport but i would recommend one. Note; If you visit only Sonora the credit card and payment is not necessary. Also if you are only going within about 21 km. of the border it is in most areas a free zone. DO NOT DRIVE AT NITE. It can be dangerous: cows, burros, horses and vehicles with no lites. Your Canadian Auto insurance is not valid in Mexico. I would recommend you purchase Mexican Insurance( available at the Border).
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