Can I Drive My Rental Car into Mexico?

Can I Drive My Rental Car into Mexico?

If you’re traveling to Mexico, one of the main things to decide is how you’re getting there. If you decide to forgo the plane and take a road trip, there are certain things you should know before heading across the border.

First, some US companies won’t allow you to drive your rental into Mexico. Other rental companies may allow you to take the car into Mexico, but under careful restrictions. The closer you are to the Mexico border, the more likely a rental company is generally going to approve your trip across.

Are There Restrictions for Driving a Rental Car in Mexico?

Not only will the cost be pricey for taking your rental car into Mexico, but the distance you can go is highly restricted. You can only travel 250 miles from the border into Mexico. If you were planning to take a deep dive into Mexico, you might want to rethink taking a US rental. Most US rental companies will provide a notarized letter of authorization to drive a rented vehicle into Mexico.

Do I Still Need Mexico Auto Insurance on a Rental?

If you rent a US-plated vehicle to drive into Mexico, you still need Mexico auto insurance. This is a countrywide law and rental cars are no exception. Basic liability is the only requirement in Mexico for auto insurance, but there are certain areas of Mexico that will instead demand “proof of financial responsibility,” which shows you can financially afford to pay for damage you may cause in an accident.

Can I Return My Rental Car to Mexico?

If you rent a car from somewhere like Budget in the US and then try to return it to a Budget rental in Mexico, you’ll find it’s impossible. Almost no rental company will allow you to rent a car from the US and leave it in Mexico.

Can I Rent a Car in Mexico?

There are car rental services available near the border for those traveling into Mexico. The rental cost typically already factors liability insurance, but there are optional coverages, as well, including full or partial vandalism coverage and roadside assistance. To rent a car in Mexico, make sure to meet these requirements.

• Driver must be 25 or older. Some agencies may require the driver to have been driving for a set number of years.
• Credit card for pre-authorization
• Driver’s license

Read closely on each agencies’ requirements the fine print on the agency’s terms of acceptance. These will typically be presented in Spanish, so have someone with you who can double check that your rental is covered for liability. Renting a car in Mexico may be cheaper than bringing a US rental across the border and you’ll have more freedom without the 250-mile limit a US rental imposes. You can rent a car in Mexico at the airport, but it will typically be more expensive with extra fees than if you rent a car from an independent agency.

Traveling can be stressful with so many different possibilities to consider, but it should be fun, too. To learn more about Mexico car insurance or get a quote, Contact Us now to get a free quote today.