Does Avis require an IDP in Mexico?
Avis in Mexico: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP where the national licence is not in the Roman alphabet or where local law requires it. Long-established global brand operating in 165+ countries.
An IDP is strongly recommended to drive and rent a car in Mexico and is required by many rental desks.
In Mexico specifically, mexico legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Avis will ask for it at the counter. Hertz and Localiza desks often request an IDP; Mexican auto insurance is mandatory.
Avis runs a global network; at its Mexico desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Mexico drives on the right, uses the MXN, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.
What to bring to the Avis counter in Mexico
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the MXN deposit; Mexico drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Mexico Avis renters should know
- Mexican liability insurance is legally required 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.