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Cross-border route

United States Mexico

Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from United States into Mexico, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Mexico expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1949 Geneva format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The busiest crossing is San Ysidro between San Diego and Tijuana on Interstate 5.

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance
FromUnited States
ToMexico
IDP in MexicoRequired
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in MexicoMXN
United StatesMexico

Crossing the border

The busiest crossing is San Ysidro between San Diego and Tijuana on Interstate 5.

Driving rules in Mexico

  • 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.

What to see when you arrive in Mexico

  • the Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá
  • the beaches of Cancún and the Riviera Maya
  • Mexico City's Zócalo and Teotihuacán
  • the cliffs of Tulum
  • the colonial city of Oaxaca

Common questions

01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from United States to Mexico?
Yes — Mexico requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Mexico recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between United States and Mexico?
No. Both United States and Mexico drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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