Do I need extra insurance in Mexico?
The only type of coverage you're legally required to have in Mexico is liability, and you'll need to get it through a specialized insurer.
Liability car insurance in Mexico
You are required by Mexican law to have liability insurance. If you cause a car accident, this covers bodily injuries and property damage to others. You can typically choose a policy limit (up to a certain amount).
Illness and injury are among the most unwelcome occurrences during international travel. Your employer-provided health plan may have limited or no coverage in Mexico, and Medicare doesn't cover health care outside the United States, except in rare cases.
How much does Mexican car insurance cost? The cost of Mexican car insurance for tourists can range from about $50 to $80 for liability-only coverage and $150 to $200 for full coverage. The specific price you pay depends on factors such as the value of your car, the length of your visit and the coverages you choose.
What is this? Renting a car in Mexico is a great way to get around during your Mexico itinerary. Opting to do so gives you a lot more freedom and flexibility than depending on public transport, which often leaves a lot to be desired even in the more touristic parts of the country.
If you're caught driving in Mexico without this minimum coverage, you may face a fine of at least $200. If you cause an accident while driving uninsured in Mexico and cannot pay for the damages you caused, you could face jail time.
Since U.S. liability insurance is invalid in Mexico, you'll need proof of Mexico auto insurance for a road trip south of the border. AAA can help you get what's required through one of Mexico's largest and most reputable insurance companies.
Your U.S. auto insurance won't cover you after crossing the border of Mexico. You'll need a special Mexican auto insurance policy to legally drive in Mexico, which can be acquired through an insurance agent.
You should purchase travel medical insurance any time you travel internationally since your U.S. health insurance plan likely will not provide coverage abroad.
Short-term visitors should look into travel insurance plans, while those planning on residing in Mexico for an extended period should consider an international health insurance plan. Mexican trip cancellation plans for tourists cover the cost of your Mexican holiday, including flights and hotel expenses.
What rental car insurance do you need in Mexico?
Personal Liability Insurance, also referred to as Third-Party Insurance, is mandatory when renting a car in Mexico. You cannot rent a car without this coverage. Although this is the only obligatory type of insurance, it's not always enough. In fact, it's highly recommended to opt for additional coverage.
To drive into Mexico from the U.S., you're required to bring the appropriate identification, a couple permits (depending on how far into Mexico you're going), and your proof of Mexico auto insurance. If your car is financed, you'll also need a letter of permission from your lender.
- U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book or card, and an entry permit issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración.
- Enter Mexico with valid proof of automobile registration, even if remaining in the border zone.
How Much is Mexican Car Insurance Per Day? The costs average between $2 and $40 a day. The cost depend on several factors including type of vehicle, length of stay and the type of coverage you choose. You can purchase a policy for a day, a month, or a year.
When visiting another country as a U.S. citizen: Your state driver's license is valid while driving in Canada and Mexico. In other countries, you may need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) for foreign drivers.
| Economy | $5/day |
|---|---|
| Mini | $33/day |
| Premium | $19/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $6/day |
| Compact SUV | $7/day |
If you are flying into Mexico and plan to rent a car, purchasing Mexican car rental insurance is one of the most proactive steps you can take to prepare for your trip to Mexico. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, you are required to have liability coverage for your rental car in Mexico.
For example, some include Mexico in a subset of countries that includes the United States, Canada and nations in the Caribbean – places notorious for high medical costs and therefore the most expensive for insurance purposes. A policy that covers every country is known as Worldwide.
Public healthcare system in Mexico
Those employed in Mexico are automatically enrolled in the IMSS system and their contribution to the scheme is deducted from their salary. Those who are not formally employed may voluntarily enrol in the IMSS system, in which case they will have to pay an annual contribution fee.
If you drive your car into Mexico, your US auto insurance policy can't come with you. Driving your car in Mexico requires a separate international auto insurance policy. But don't worry. GEICO can help you get a Mexico auto insurance quote.
Does AAA roadside assistance work in Mexico?
Roadside assistance in Mexico is provided by Green Angels since 1960 when it was founded. Green Angels (Ángeles Verdes) is the Mexican version of AAA in the USA. Unlike in the US where AAA is a private organization, in Mexico, Green Angels is a government run organization and falls under the Ministry of Tourism.
Immediate Steps After an Car Accident in Mexico:
Stay calm and call 911. Check to see if anyone is injured or hurt, offer help, if possible. Get the names and addresses of all the drivers involved in the accident. Get the license plate numbers of all the vehicles involved in the accident.
- A U.S. Passport (or Green Card)
- A U.S. Driver's License (or International Driving Permit)
- Proof of car registration.
- A Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TVIP)
- A Mexico Tourist Card/Entry Permit (FMM)
- A Mexico tourist auto insurance policy.
In Mexico, right turns on red are generally allowed unless a sign indicates otherwise. Mexico City has implemented a new transit law which prohibits right turns on red.
Can I Use My US Health Insurance in Mexico? No, in most cases, you will not be able to use the health insurance you have in the US for treatment in Mexico. Your American health insurance policy, such as Medicare, will not extend outside the borders.
