How to Use a TAG for Mexican Toll Roads: A Smart Traveler’s Guide in the Cashless Era

Driving in Mexico has always offered travelers flexibility, freedom, and access to places you simply can’t reach by plane. But if you’re planning a road trip now, there’s one big change you can’t ignore: Mexico’s toll roads are rapidly moving toward a cashless future. Before hitting the road, drivers should also make sure they have Mexican-approved auto insurance, which is required to drive legally in Mexico.

Changes to the way Mexico’s toll booths operate have already begun. In January 2026, toll booths operated by CAPUFE will have limited access to cash lanes and credit cards are not accepted. That means drivers using these roads need to have a tag.

This guide breaks it all down. You’ll learn what a TAG for Mexican toll roads is, how electronic toll collection works, where to get a tag, and how to use it confidently so you can avoid delays, reduce stress, and enjoy smoother cross-border travel while handling toll roads in Mexico with ease.

Why Mexico’s Toll Roads Are Going Cashless

Driving in Mexico has always offered travelers flexibility, freedom, and access to places you simply can’t reach by plane. But if you’re planning a road trip now, there’s one big change you can’t ignore: Mexico’s toll roads are rapidly moving toward a cashless future. Whether you choose toll roads vs toll-free roads, it’s important to be prepared for changing payment requirements.

If you’ve seen headlines like “Mexico toll roads no cash” or heard travelers mention IAVE or PASE tags, you’re not alone. Many drivers—especially those crossing the border for the first time—are unsure how the new toll payment system works or what they need before hitting the road.

What Is a TAG and How Does It Work?

A TAG is a small electronic transponder that attaches to your vehicle’s windshield. It uses transponder technology to communicate with toll plaza sensors as you drive through designated lanes.

Instead of stopping to hand over cash, your toll is automatically deducted from your prepaid balance or linked payment method. This seamless toll payment system is designed to keep vehicles moving and reduce congestion at plazas.

Behind the scenes, your TAG connects to a centralized electronic toll collection network. As you pass through, sensors read your TAG, verify your balance, and open the gate—often without you needing to slow down much at all.

For travelers, this means fewer bottlenecks, less fumbling for pesos, and a smoother overall driving experience.

Understanding IAVE and Pase Tags

If you’ve researched toll roads in Mexico, you’ve probably seen two names come up repeatedly: IAVE and Pase.

• IAVE TAG is operated by CAPUFE, the government agency that manages many of Mexico’s toll highways. It’s widely accepted across federal toll roads.
• Pase TAG is a private option that also works on most major toll roads and may offer additional app features depending on the provider.

Both use the same core electronic tagging system and are compatible with modern toll infrastructure. The best choice often depends on where you plan to drive and how you prefer to manage your account—but either option will dramatically improve your travel convenience. Here is a convenient table to help you understand the choices.

For IAVE, border pickup locations include Tijuana, Nuevo Laredo, and Ciudad Acuña. Examples of places where tags are commonly used include:

• Baja California (Tijuana–Ensenada)
• Sonora (Nogales–Hermosillo)
• Routes near Reynosa and Saltillo

* “Buy from the US” often means “order online,” not “ship to the US.” Many of these systems are built around Mexico delivery or Mexico pickup points.

How to Get a TAG for Mexican Toll Roads

Getting a TAG is easier than many travelers expect, especially if you plan ahead. The key is to obtain one before you reach a toll booth.

Where to Buy Your IAVE or Pase Tag

Some travelers also choose to order their TAG online ahead of time and have it shipped or picked up before crossing. This is often the least stressful option, especially during busy travel seasons.

You can typically purchase a TAG through:

• Official provider websites
• Authorized convenience stores in Mexico
• Select border-area retailers
• Certain banks or service centers

Some common points of sale include OXXO, Farmacia Guadalajara, Soriana, and 7-Eleven, and if you do not purchase before your trip, the recommendation is purchasing the tag immediately after crossing the border. Availability may vary by region, so planning in advance helps ensure you don’t arrive unprepared.

Activating and Setting Up Your TAG

Once you have your TAG, activation is usually straightforward. Most providers require you to:

1. Create an online account
2. Register your TAG number
3. Add basic vehicle information

This step connects your TAG to you and ensures toll charges are applied correctly. Activation can often be completed online or through a mobile app in just a few minutes.

Linking Your TAG to a Payment Method

After activation, you’ll need to fund your account. This is where mobile payment solutions come into play.

Most TAG providers allow you to:

• Add funds via credit or debit card
• Set up automatic reloads
• Monitor balances digitally

Keeping a healthy balance is important. If your account runs low, you may be denied access at certain toll booths—something no traveler wants to deal with mid-drive.

Using Your TAG at Toll Booths

Using your TAG is refreshingly simple. As you approach a toll plaza, look for lanes marked TAG, IAVE, or PASE. These lanes are reserved for vehicles equipped with a transponder.

Drive forward at the posted speed, and your TAG will be scanned automatically. In many cases, the gate opens without you needing to stop fully, contributing to smoother traffic flow improvement across busy corridors. In some cases, you’ll see a screen confirming your automatic payment.

Always make sure your TAG is properly mounted on your windshield and that your account has sufficient funds before starting your journey.

What Happens If You Arrive Without a TAG

Arriving at a toll road without a TAG can be frustrating. While some toll booths still accept cash in limited lanes, availability is shrinking fast, and a reminder that they do not take credit cards or foreign currency.

If no cash lanes are open:

• You may be redirected
• You could experience significant delays
• In some cases, you may not be allowed to proceed

For cross-border travel, this can be especially stressful. Border-area toll roads are among the first to adopt cashless systems, making preparation even more critical for international drivers.

How to Reload or Manage Your TAG Balance

Managing your TAG balance is part of modern travel convenience. Most providers offer user-friendly online portals or mobile apps where you can:

• Check your balance in real time
• Reload funds instantly
• Set up auto-replenishment
• Review toll usage history

This level of visibility helps you stay in control of your travel costs and avoid surprises on the road. It also supports better planning, especially on long-distance trips through multiple toll plazas.

Remember that not all tags do not accept foreign credit cards, some may charge service fees and some may require a minimum reload amount. For best practices, research the type of tag you need and be sure and load it with enough deposit to get you through your trip comfortably before you leave.

Cost and Benefits of TAG Usage

While there is usually a small upfront cost to purchase a TAG, the benefits often outweigh the expense.

Some advantages include:

• Faster travel times due to reduced stops
• Access to exclusive TAG lanes
• Potential toll road discounts on select routes
• Improved safety and predictability

In the long run, using a TAG can make driving in Mexico more efficient, less stressful, and better aligned with the country’s evolving smart road infrastructure.

Safety and Support While Driving on Toll Roads

Mexico’s toll roads are generally considered safer than free highways, with better lighting, regular patrols, and emergency assistance.

Many toll routes include:

• Roadside support services
• Emergency call boxes
• Enhanced vehicular access control

That said, preparation matters. Along with your TAG, having proper Mexican auto insurance is essential. Coverage ensures you’re protected financially and legally while driving, especially in the event of an accident or roadside incident.

Avoid the Long Lines. Get Your TAG and Mexican Auto Insurance Today.

As Mexico continues its transition to cashless toll roads, having a TAG is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s a must. Pairing your electronic toll solution with reliable Mexican auto insurance helps ensure your trip is smooth, compliant, and worry-free from start to finish.

Planning ahead means less time waiting at toll booths and more time enjoying the journey.

Ready to ensure your Mexico road trip is safe and stress-free? Choose Sanborn’s Mexican auto insurance for comprehensive coverage tailored to your needs. With over 75 years of experience helping travelers navigate the legal requirements of driving in Mexico, Sanborn’s makes it easy to get the protection you need.

Request your quote online, visit one of our convenient locations, or call 800-222-0158. We’re here to help you find the right coverage for your trip.

FAQs

Can I Still Pay Cash at Any Toll Booths in Mexico?

Some toll booths still accept cash, only pesos, but availability is decreasing rapidly. Many plazas now prioritize electronic toll collection, and some no longer accept cash at all. A TAG is the most reliable option.

How Do I Reload Funds on My Toll Tag?

Managing your TAG balance is part of modern travel convenience. Most providers offer user-friendly online portals or mobile apps where you can check your balance in real time, reload funds instantly, set up auto-replenishment, and review toll usage history.

Many travelers also rely on navigation and travel apps during a Mexico road trip to identify toll roads, plan routes, and stay informed about TAG-only lanes and toll plazas.

This level of visibility helps you stay in control of your travel costs and avoid surprises on the road.

Where Can I Get a TAG for Mexican Toll Roads?

You can purchase an IAVE or Pase TAG online, at authorized retailers, or through select service centers in Mexico. Getting one before your trip is strongly recommended.