Driving to Mexico From Arizona: The Insurance and Permits You Need

What your Arizona policy does and doesn't do

What to have before you cross

• Mexican liability insurance for every day you will be in Mexico, bought before you cross.
• A passport book or passport card for U.S. citizens traveling by land (U.S. Embassy).
• An FMM entry permit for most land travelers; it can be obtained online or at the port of entry. Travelers staying in a border city for under seven days may not need one.
• A Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TVIP) for driving a U.S.-registered vehicle beyond the free zones. The Embassy lists a non-refundable processing fee of about $45–$59 and a refundable deposit of about $200–$400 depending on vehicle age, and says you must cancel the permit at the Banjercito office when you leave.

The Embassy says a TVIP is not required for the Baja California Peninsula, the Sonora Free Zone, Quintana Roo state or the border zone (generally within about 12 miles of the U.S. border). Insurance is still required.

Steps before the trip

1. Call your Arizona insurer and ask what, if anything, your policy covers for physical damage to your car in Mexico, and how far from the border.
2. Buy a Mexican liability policy covering your whole stay. Consider physical damage, theft and legal assistance options if your Arizona policy does not extend them.
3. Print the policy and keep it in the car with your registration.
4. Check the State Department travel advisory for each Mexican state on your route; the Embassy advises daylight driving on toll roads.

Related coverage questions

Insurance for your home and belongings, travel medical coverage and rental cars bought in Mexico are separate questions. If you rent a car in Mexico, ask the rental company exactly what liability coverage is included and what is optional. For medical coverage abroad, see our travel insurance checklist.