Last reviewed: November 2026. The US advisory for Mexico I refer to was dated May 29, 2026. Check the current version and the state-by-state details before you drive.
Millions of Americans drive into Mexico every year, and road trips through places like the Yucatán and Baja California can be wonderful. Whether driving is safe, though, depends heavily on where you’re going, which roads you use and when you drive.
Here’s what the US State Department advises, the paperwork you need, and the driving habits that reduce the risks most.
Start with the state-by-state advisory
The US advisory for Mexico rates each state separately. In the May 2026 version, six states were at Level 4, “Do Not Travel”: Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. Many others carry Level 2 or Level 3 warnings for crime and kidnapping, and some list specific areas and routes to avoid. Popular tourist states such as Quintana Roo and Baja California Sur were at Level 2.
Read the section for every state your route passes through, not just your destination. My guide to how to read government travel advisories explains how the levels and state notes work.
Paperwork you need
- Mexican auto insurance. US car insurance generally isn’t valid in Mexico, and you need at least Mexican liability coverage. Buy it from a Mexican insurer or an authorized seller before you cross.
- Temporary vehicle import permit. If you drive beyond the border zone (and outside the free zones in Baja California and parts of Sonora), you’ll need a temporary import permit for your car from Banjercito, the official issuer. Return it when you leave.
- Tourist permit (FMM) if you’re staying beyond the border zone or longer than a short visit.
- Passport, driver’s license and vehicle registration. If the car isn’t yours, carry a notarized letter of permission from the owner.
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Driving habits that reduce the risk
- Don’t drive between cities after dark. The State Department advises against it, and livestock, unlit vehicles and crime are bigger risks at night.
- Use toll roads (cuota) where possible. They’re usually in better condition and better patrolled than free roads (libre).
- Keep your fuel tank above half on long stretches, and fill up at busy, well-known stations.
- Stop at checkpoints and follow instructions. Keep documents ready and stay calm.
- Don’t flash valuables, and keep bags out of sight in the trunk.
- Share your route with someone at home and check in when you arrive.
- Watch for topes (speed bumps), which can be large and unmarked, especially entering towns.
Help on the road
- 911 is the national emergency number.
- 078 connects to the Ángeles Verdes (Green Angels), the government’s roadside assistance and tourist help service on federal highways.
- US Embassy or consulate for serious problems such as arrest, accident or kidnapping. Enroll in STEP before you go.
If something goes wrong, the steps in my guide to what to do in a travel emergency abroad apply.
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If you have an accident
Call your Mexican insurer right away, before you move the car if it’s safe to wait. In Mexico, a car accident can be handled as a criminal matter until fault is settled, and your insurer’s adjuster will guide you. Don’t sign anything you don’t understand.
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Popular road trips that are easier to do safely
Many travelers drive in the Yucatán Peninsula (Quintana Roo and Yucatán states) and in Baja California Sur, where tourism infrastructure is good. Even there, follow the daylight-only rule and check the advisory for any specific warnings. Jalisco carries its own warnings in the advisory too, which I cover in my Guadalajara safety guide.
If you’d rather not drive, renting a car only for day trips, or using buses from first-class operators and domestic flights, is a good middle way. For driving rules elsewhere, see my guide to driving abroad and international driving permits.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive in Mexico as an American?
It can be, on the right routes in daylight, with the right insurance. Avoid the Level 4 states and follow the state-specific advice in the US advisory.
Does my US car insurance cover me in Mexico?
Generally not. You need Mexican liability insurance at a minimum.
Do I need a permit to bring my car into Mexico?
Beyond the border zone and the free zones, yes. Get a temporary vehicle import permit from Banjercito.
Can I drive a rental car from the US into Mexico?
Only if the rental company allows it, and usually with extra Mexican insurance. Check before you book.
