Destinations / Mexico
Driving in Mexico as a visitor
Usually yes. Mexico expects visiting drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence, and rental desks ask for one. It matters most when your licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet.
Standard delivery included. Need it sooner? Express lands by for $25 more.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What Mexico expects
| Permit needed | Expected |
|---|---|
| Convention format | 1949 Geneva |
| Valid for | 1 year |
| Drives on the | Right |
| Emergency number | 911 |
| Top speed limit | 110 km/h autopistas |
What the rental desk will ask you for
| Your own licence | The original card. A photo of it, or a photocopy, gets turned away. |
|---|---|
| Licence translation | Expected. Hand it over with the licence, never instead of it. |
| Booklet format they know | 1949 Geneva |
| Minimum age | 18. Under 25 usually pays a young-driver surcharge. |
| Deposit | A credit card in the driver's name. The hold is taken in MXN. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Local practice | Mexican liability insurance is mandatory and sold by rental desks. |
|---|---|
| Speed | Topes (speed bumps) are frequent and often unmarked. |
| After dark | Avoid driving at night outside cities. |
| Alcohol | 0.08% alcohol limit, strictly enforced. |
On the road in Mexico
At the pump
Pemex (and private brands) sell Magna 87 (regular, green pump) and Premium 91-92 octane petrol plus diesel; stations are full-service with attendants, so tip 5-10 pesos. Pay cash or card; a small tip is customary.
After a crash
Call 911 for emergencies. Do not move the vehicles and do not admit fault; wait for your Mexican insurer's adjuster (ajustador) and the transit police, as US/Canadian policies are invalid and proof of Mexican liability insurance is mandatory.
Sources: mexperience.com · sanborns.com · angloinfo.com · internationaldrivingpermit.org
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in Mexico?
Usually yes. Mexico expects visiting drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence, and rental desks ask for one. It matters most when your licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet.
Which IDP format does Mexico accept?
Mexico recognises the 1949 Geneva format. Your permit is prepared in that format.
Will a rental desk in Mexico ask for one?
Hertz and Localiza desks often request an IDP; Mexican auto insurance is mandatory.
How fast can you get one?
Express orders are emailed within 5 minutes. The exact delivery moment is quoted before you pay and the order is refundable for 30 days.