Mexico Temporary Import Permit (TIP): Drive Your Car Across the Border

You need a Mexico Temporary Import Permit (TIP) to drive your US/Canadian vehicle outside the Free Zone (areas beyond 16-20 miles from the US border), the permit costs $51 USD plus a refundable deposit of $200-$400 depending on vehicle age (2007+ = $400, 2001-2006 = $300, 2000 and older = $200), is valid up to 180 days for tourists matching your FMM tourist card, and you can apply online at Banjercito 10-60 days before entry or get it in-person at the border (recommended for easier cancellation). You don't need a TIP in Baja California, the immediate border zone, or parts of Sonora. When I drove down from Florida, figuring out this permit was one of the most confusing parts of the process, here's everything I learned to help you navigate it smoothly.

What is a Temporary Import Permit?

A TIP allows foreign vehicle owners to legally drive their car in Mexico temporarily. The good news is that it's not required everywhere - if you're staying in the "Free Zone" (Baja California, areas within 16-20 miles of the US-Mexico border, and parts of Sonora), you don't need one.

Required Documents

Before you apply, make sure you have:

• Valid US or Canadian passport
• ONE of the following: vehicle registration, title, financing contract, DMV payment receipt, or leasing contract (must be under 3 months old)
• If the vehicle is registered to a spouse, child, or parent, you'll need proof of relationship (birth or marriage certificate)

Important: You can only request a permit for vehicles registered in your name or immediate family members' names.

Costs and Deposits

You'll need to pay a security deposit that varies by vehicle age:

• 2007 and newer: $400 USD
• 2001-2006: $300 USD
• 2000 and earlier: $200 USD

The deposit is refundable to the credit card you used, typically within a few days of canceling your permit.

How Long is it Valid?

The duration depends on your immigration status:

• Tourists: Up to 180 days, matching your FMM tourist card expiration
• Temporary Residents: 30 days initially; you must extend it at Customs (Aduana) before it expires
• Permanent Residents: 30 days maximum; your vehicle must leave Mexico before the permit expires
• Mexican Nationals Living Abroad: 180 total calendar days usable within 12 months

Where to Get Your TIP

In-Person (Recommended)

You can get your TIP at Mexican consulates in Chicago, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Sacramento, Albuquerque, Denver, and Phoenix. You can also get it at the border crossing.

Online

Banjercito has an online portal where you can apply 10-60 days before entry. However, I'd recommend getting it in person at the border - online permits can be difficult to cancel if your plans change.

Critical Rules You Must Follow

Insurance is Mandatory

Your US or Canadian vehicle insurance is NOT valid in Mexico. You must purchase Mexican-specific coverage before crossing the border.

Who Can Drive Your Vehicle

Only specific people can drive your permitted vehicle:

• The permit holder (you)
• Your spouse
• Your parents, siblings, and children
• Anyone else may ONLY drive if the permit holder is present in the vehicle

Vehicle Restrictions

• Maximum weight: 3.5 metric tons (7,716 lbs GVWR)
• Salvaged-title vehicles are typically denied
• Only factory-installed tinted windows are legal
• You cannot sell, donate, or scrap foreign-plated vehicles in Mexico

Financed or Leased Vehicles

If your vehicle is financed or leased, you'll need written permission from the lien holder, and your insurance policy must comply with Mexican requirements.

Extensions and Cancellation

If you need to extend your TIP, visit a Customs (Aduana) office with Form ANEXO 3 and a copy of your resident card before your permit expires. If you let it expire, you lose your deposit.

Critical: When you leave Mexico, you MUST cancel your permit at a Banjercito office at the border. If you don't, you won't be able to import any vehicle into Mexico in the future.

My Tips for Success

1. Get your TIP at the border - it's more reliable than online
2. Always carry the printed permit in your vehicle
3. RV owners: You may qualify for 10-year permits as tourists with no deposit required
4. Check your TIP status online through the SAT portal
5. Keep your FMM current - your TIP is tied to your immigration status

Warning

Driving in Mexico without a required TIP is serious. You could face vehicle confiscation, hefty fines, potential jail time, and your insurance will be void. Don't risk it!

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• Puerto Morelos Complete Guide
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