American and Canadian drivers’ licences are valid in Mexico. Road conditions vary and are usually not as good as Americans and Canadians are accustomed to. Road travel should be limited to daylight hours throughout the country.  Toll (cuota) highways are less heavily travelled and in much better condition than the free (libre) roads.

In case of a vehicle breakdown or roadside emergency, a highway patrol service called the Green Angels (Angeles Verdes) provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The telephone number in Mexico City is 3002-6300 ext. 8987 to 8989.  The 24-hour toll-free number is 01-800-987-8224. In case of emergency, you can also dial 078.

Canadian and American automobile insurance is not recognized in Mexico. You must obtain additional insurance at the Mexican border or in advance of your trip. Full coverage is recommended, including coverage for legal assistance.  It is way better to slow down and drive defensively than to go through an accident investigation, even if the accident was not your fault.

Foreigners must obtain a temporary import permit for their vehicles.  Before going to the vehicle registration office at the border, make 3 copies each of the title page in your passport, the vehicle registration certificate, the title or purchase invoice of the vehicle, your driver’s license, and your immigration or tourist document. You will need a credit card for payment and for a deposit to ensure you take the vehicle back out of Mexico in the future.  If you don’t have a credit card, you will be charged up to $400 (U.S.) for the deposit. Each traveller is allowed to bring only one vehicle into the country.

When taking the vehicle out of Mexico, the Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit must be cancelled in person, and with the vehicle with which you entered the country. This can be done at any customs office at the border.

Mexico has a very thorough public transportation system. The long distance highway buses are extremely comfortable and safe. The larger cities also have rapid transit systems, and local buses are everywhere. All the urban areas have an airport and more commuter airlines are appearing every month. International air travel is also very convenient.