North America travel guide
Driving in Mexico with a foreign licence
Bring an IDP
Rental desks and local authorities in Mexico commonly ask foreign drivers to carry an IDP alongside their national licence. An IDP is strongly recommended to drive and rent a car in Mexico and is requested by many rental desks.
The essentials
Drives onThe right
IDPStrongly recommended
Minimum age18+
Convention1949 Geneva
On the road
Rules of the road in Mexico
- Mexican liability insurance is mandatory and sold by rental desks.
- Topes (speed bumps) are frequent and often unmarked.
- Avoid driving at night outside cities.
- 0.08% alcohol limit, strictly enforced.
At the rental desk
Hertz and Localiza desks often request an IDP; Mexican auto insurance is mandatory.
Common questions
01
Can I drive in Mexico with a foreign licence?
Yes, with your national licence plus an International Driving Permit, which Mexico requires for foreign drivers.
02
Which side of the road does Mexico drive on?
Mexico drives on the right.
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