Driving Tips in Mexico

Car Hire Depot information in Mexico

DriveAway Holidays offers the best rates and choices with reputable suppliers in Mexico. Our Suppliers are located throughout major cities of Mexico.

Car Hire Driving Distances in Mexico

• Mexico City to Cancun – 1630 kms (19hrs)
• Cancun to Coba – 150 kms (3hrs)
• Oaxaca to Mexico City – 465 kms (5 hrs)

Driving Licence

A full valid driver’s license is required for a minimum of 2 years. An International licence is recommended for Australian drivers licence holders.

Age Restrictions

Generally the minimum age is 21 years, but can vary between the car rental company and location. Maximum age limits apply in some locations, a young/senior driver surcharge may apply. Please check Terms and Conditions when making an enquiry or booking.

Rules and Regulations

General driving rules and regulations in Mexico;

• Driving is on the right hand side of the road.
• Pass others on the left hand side of the road.
• All occupants in the vehicle must wear a seat belt.
• Mobile Phones are not permitted while driving, with the exception of a hands-free system.
• Drivers are to carry a valid drivers licence at all times.

US - Mexico Border Information

Vehicles hired from the US are not covered under the insurance in Mexico, although vehicles are allowed to be driven within the free trade zone (20km within from the border). Entry requirements and fees apply when crossing further past the free-trade zone. It isn't mandatory to purchase auto insurance in Mexico however it is highly recommended.

Child Safety Seats

Children aged under 4 years old must be seated in an appropriate child restraint. Any children under 12 years old should be seated in the back seats wearing a seat belt.

Speed Limits

Although speed camera's aren't very common in Mexico, police have the authority to stop suspected motorists speeding. It is wise to drive below the advised speed limit as roads in Mexico can be quite hazardous. Below are the speed limits in Mexico, unless signed otherwise;

• Urban Areas (built up areas): 50km/h
• Motorways: 100km/h

Drink Driving

The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in Mexico is 0.08mg/100ml.

Tolls

In Mexico, tolls are payable at most motorways, prices vary depending on the distance travelled or the type of vehicle used. Most toll booths/plaza's only accept cash as sort of payment, but at some toll plaza's; mainly the ones that have had upgrades, credit cards are also accepted.

Road Signs

Regulatory Signs give specific instructions to road users, such as stop, give way (yield), speed limits and no parking signs. Signs will vary in shapes, colour and typeface such as the octagon used with a stop sign and a X shape for rail crossings. Warning Signs warn road users of any upcoming hazards, changes in road conditions, schools or traffic signals. Shapes are commonly diamond shaped, coloured in either yellow or fluorescent yellow and with the exception of a few signs that have a square or rectangular shape. Guide Signs detail highway route markers (shield shape), street signs, mile markers and exit signs. Interchange Signs are green with either a square or rectangular shape, Guide signs use a shield shape and street signs are rectangular, although colours will vary.

Parking

In busy areas parking is generally timed with a fee. You'll need to purchase a parking ticket from either a nearby machine or parking attendant and place it on your front windscreen. Always make sure to check signage before leaving your vehicle, otherwise you may find your car towed, which costs time and money to have you car back.

Visa Information

Visa, passport and entry requirements for Australian's visiting Mexico;

• Australian passport holder do not require a visa for stays not exceeding 180 days. Contact the Embassy of Mexico in your local state for additional information regarding visa's.
• Tourism visits; A tourist card is required to be filled out prior to entering Mexico. One part is obtained by officials at entry and the other taken prior to departure, therefore make sure to keep this inside your passport.
• Business visits; Persons travelling on business or work, please contact the Embassy or Mexico for requirements and additional information.
• A passport with at-least 6 months validity is required.
• A return/onward travel ticket/itinerary is required.

*Please note distances and time should only be used as a guide, and may vary according to the route taken.

Last Updated 16 June 2010