can you take a us car to mexico

[Minnie]

Yes, you can take a US car to Mexico, but it requires specific documentation and adherence to strict Mexican regulations to avoid having your vehicle seized. The process is not as simple as just driving across the border. You'll need a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) for travel beyond the approximately 15-20 mile "Free Zone" along the border. The primary requirements include a valid driver's license, your vehicle's original title or registration, a valid passport, and a valid tourist visa (FMM). The vehicle must be financed or leased, and you must provide a letter of permission from the lienholder.

The most critical document is the TIP, obtained from Mexican customs officials (Banjercito) at the border. This permit is tied to your tourist visa and allows you to keep the vehicle in Mexico for up to 180 days. You must also purchase Mexican auto liability insurance, as US or Canadian policies are not recognized. Failure to secure a TIP can result in severe penalties, including vehicle confiscation and fines.

The following table outlines key requirements and restrictions:

Requirement / Consideration	Details
Temporary Import Permit (TIP)	Mandatory for travel beyond the border Free Zone; obtain at Banjercito offices.
Mexican Auto Insurance	US insurance is invalid; must be purchased from a licensed Mexican provider.
Valid Driver's License	Your US driver's license is sufficient for driving in Mexico.
Vehicle Title/Registration	Must present the original document; copies are often not accepted.
Lienholder Permission	Required if you do not own the vehicle outright; a notarized letter is best.
Maximum Stay	The TIP is valid for up to 180 days, matching the typical tourist visa duration.
Restricted Vehicle Models	Certain high-finance vehicles (e.g., some pickup trucks) may be denied a TIP.
Returning to the US	You must cancel the TIP when exiting Mexico to recover your security deposit.

Before your trip, verify that your specific vehicle model is eligible for a TIP. It's also wise to make copies of all documents and keep them separate from the originals. Plan your crossing at a major border entry point where officials are more experienced with the TIP process.

[StAndres]

I've done it a few times for surf trips down the Baja peninsula. The main thing is getting that Temporary Import Permit at the border. It’s a bit of paperwork, but it’s straightforward if you have your registration and passport. Don't even think about going without Mexican car insurance—it's a non-negotiable. The whole process takes an hour or so, but then you're free to explore. Just make sure you cancel the permit on your way back.

[DiMaria]

Absolutely, but you must follow the rules meticulously. The key is the Temporary Import Permit for travel beyond the immediate border area. You will need your original vehicle title, passport, and a valid tourist visa. Crucially, your US auto insurance is void in Mexico; you must purchase a separate policy from a Mexican insurer. I strongly advise against risking it without the proper permit, as Mexican authorities are strict about impounding non-compliant vehicles. Proper preparation makes for a smooth and legal trip.

[LaMaximus]

It's totally possible, but the bureaucracy is the main hurdle. The biggest shock for most Americans is that their insurance doesn't work. You have to buy a Mexican policy online or at the border. The other essential is the Temporary Import Permit, which acts as your permission slip to have the car in the country. If your car is leased or has a loan, you'll need a notarized letter from the bank. It sounds like a lot, but it's a manageable process if you have all your documents in order.