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Can you Bring your Car to Cancun, Mexico?

Can you Bring your Car to Cancun, Mexico?

Are you currently thinking about making a move to Cancun, Mexico from the the US or Canada? Are you trying to figure out how to bring your car with you? Is it worth the time and trouble? Here you will find out all your need to know.

First things first!

First of all, having a car in Cancun will make your life easier and more comfortable, but it is not essential. Public transportation is very good, including both buses and taxis. Some of the buses even have air-con and WiFi! Obviously, having your own car with you when you move to Mexico will make getting around much easier, especially if you are planning on seeing different places in Mexico or you may have a long commute to work.

Bringing your car to Cancun, Mexico

It is totally possible to drive from the US or Canada to Mexico, bringing your car with you, however, you will need an import permit if you are driving outside the “Free Zone.” The “Free Zone” is approximately 22 miles or 35 km from the border. In this area cars that are registered outside of Mexico can drive freely without a temporary vehicle import permit. Once you leave this zone, you will be greeted by several guarded checkpoints along your journey where you will have to show your import permit. There isn’t anywhere to purchase the vehicle import permits near the guarded checkpoints, so if you are driving in these areas you must have the vehicle import permit BEFORE you leave the free zone.

One Car Per Adult

You can import one car per adult into Mexico, which means anyone over 18 years old. The only exception to this rule is if you and your family are traveling to Mexico in an RV, then you are allowed to tow a car behind the RV. Both of the vehicles (RV and the Car) will have to have ownership proof. Also, both of these vehicles must leave with you when you return. Remember, the trailer that is holding the car will not count as one vehicle. Single passenger vehicles, like motorcycles and ATVs, can be registered with your car if you are towing them behind, and they will also need proof of ownership. There is a limit to the number of single passenger vehicles you can bring into Mexico, which is currently three. An important point to remember is that any vehicles that you arrive with, must leave with you when you exit the country.

Vehicle Import Permits

The vehicle import permit will stay in effect and valid as long as your Mexican tourist  or temporary residents visa is valid. If you are already a permanent resident in Mexico, then you can’t bring a car from the US. If your immigration status changes while you are in Mexico with your car, you won’t have to apply for a new vehicle permit for your car. If you leave Mexico at any time, then your vehicle permit is surrendered.