How Easy is It to Rent a Car in Tijuana

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Looking into a Mexico Car Rental?

You've come to the right place, as I live in Mexico , and I'm going to walk you through the process of renting a car in Mexico. By the end of the article, you're going to feel confident about the entire Mexico rental procedure.

BEST MEXICO CAR RENTAL COMPANY: Discover Cars

When booking your Mexico car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search both international corporations and local Mexican companies, so you get the best deal.

If you've been looking for info on renting a car in Mexico, you may have encountered conflicting information. There are official rules for how to rent a car in Mexico — and then there's how things play out in the real world.

Don't worry: We're going to clear all that up in this article. You're also going to get 10 Useful Mexico Driving Tips so you're confident while driving a rental car in Mexico.

You'll also learn about common Mexico car rental scams so you don't fall victim to any hidden fees. There's also info about Mexican car insurance, which you must legally have to drive in Mexico.

Ready to learn the ins and outs of renting a car in Mexico? Let's get to it, starting with the most frequently asked questions about renting cars in Mexico.

Renting A Car in Mexico FAQ

Is it safe to drive in Mexico?

Yes — For the most part, it is considered safe to drive in Mexico. The one obvious caveat to that statement is you'll be driving in another country, where you're unfamiliar with driving laws and local customs.

Check out the 10 Mexico driving tips below that will help you get more comfortable driving in Mexico.

Renting A Car in Mexico

Should I rent a car in Mexico?

Car rentals in Mexico give you freedom — both to venture off the beaten path to the Mexico hidden gems, and the ability to explore at your own pace.

With group tours in Mexico, you only have a limited amount of time to explore, but with your own rental, you set the schedule.

What's the cheapest car rental company in Mexico?

I recommend and use Discover Cars . It compares local, national and international companies so you get the best rates.

The best part? You can add full coverage Mexican insurance for only about $10 USD per day.

Oftentimes, I have found the cheapest Mexico car rental companies are America Car Rental and Mex Rent A Car — both of which you'll find on Discover Cars.

Remember to always check ratings, and never go with a low-rated company. ▶︎ BOOK NOW

Renting A Car in Mexico

How much does renting a car in Mexico cost?

Mexico car rental rates vary, but figure about $30 USD per day for an economy car with full coverage insurance.

As you read this article, you'll discover why you can't believe the first price you see quoted online, and discover all your options for Mexican car insurance, which will affect the price.

Renting A Car in Mexico

Can I rent a car in Mexico?

As far as what's required to rent a car in Mexico, there are only four things you need to have for a Mexico rental car.

1. A Valid Driver's License

If you have a valid U.S. driver's license, or one in a language that uses the Roman alphabet (this one), you can rent a car in Mexico with your country's license.

Drivers from countries like Japan and China, which use the character alphabet, will need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

🚗💨 Need an IDP? Apply for one here.

2. A Credit Card or Debit Card

When you rent a car in Mexico, they will swipe your credit or debit card to have on file in the event you damage the car. Different companies hold a different amount of money, but it's usually about $1,000USD.

Note: If you opt for full coverage insurance, they often don't hold any money.

When leaving a card on file for your Mexico car rental, opt for a credit over debit card. When you use a debit for this, the money will be removed from your account (then returned when you return the car), but with the credit card, it's just on hold.

3. You must be 18 to Rent a Car in Mexico (but really, 25)

As with the U.S., people ages 25 and older can rent a car in Mexico from any car company with no limitations.

Some companies also rent to drivers 21-24 years of age, though they have a $10-20 USD per day surcharge for underage drivers.

There are a very small minority of Mexico car rental locations that rent to 18- to 20-year-olds — but they are out there.

For drivers ages 18-24, you'll want to double check each company's policy before booking, and ask them for all associated fees.

4. Mexican Insurance is mandatory

You will need insurance to drive in Mexico. There's a whole section of this article that will explain everything you need to know about getting the best Mexican auto insurance, as it's a big topic.

If you want to jump ahead, here's the link to find out all about Mexican car insurance.

Renting A Car in Mexico

What kind of Mexican cars are for rent?

For the most part, you'll find the same makes and models you will in the United States and Canada. The most common types of rental cars in Mexico are Nissan, Chevrolet, Volkswagen and Kia.

Besides those, some common companies in Mexico that aren't common in the U.S. include Peugeot and Renault, both French companies.

🤔 Are most rental cars in Mexico automatic or stick shift? About 99% are automatic, unless you're renting a specialty vehicle like a dune buggy or a luxury sports car.

🤔 W hat side of the road do they drive on in Mexico? The right side, same as the U.S. and Canada.

Renting A Car in Mexico

What are the top Mexican car rental companies?

All the big name U.S. car rental companies also have offices in Mexico — Hertz, National, Sixt, Alamo, Budget, Thrifty, Enterprise and Avis.

If you prefer to use a Mexican company to support the national economy, one of the best car rental companies in Mexico is Mex Rent A Car.

Wherever you choose to rent cars in Mexico, make sure to read reviews about the company, and about that particular location.

What's the easiest way to book a car rental in Mexico?

Using Discover Cars, which searches all those companies! Using a search service means you get the best deal because Discover Cars searches all the car rental companies at once so you get the lowest price.

renting a car in mexico

Do I need Mexican car insurance?

Yes — You do need insurance for driving in Mexico; though Mexico travel insurance is optional.

You must have Mexican Personal Liability Insurance to legally drive in Mexico, and some car rental companies won't let you take their cars unless you purchase it from them.

While Mexico car rental companies aren't legally allowed to make you buy insurance from them — the most you can do is argue with them, and at worst, they just won't let you rent the car.

This has become especially true of people who try to use U.S. credit card insurance. (More on insurance through a credit card in a minute.)

I rent cars in Mexico a few times each year, and have never had any issues using the full coverage policy I have purchased through Discover Cars.

Legally, third party insurance is completely valid.

However, that's not to say an agent won't try to up-sell you their company's insurance. Some companies actually encourage employees to do so — which is why you want to read reviews before booking.

While Mexico car rental companies aren't technically allowed to make you buy insurance from them, the most you can do is argue with them. As a worst case scenario, they just won't let you rent the car.

For the least amount of headaches on your Mexico trip, buy insurance from the company you're renting from. If you get full coverage, you could essentially return it in any condition, and not have to pay them a single cent.

Renting A Car in Mexico

How much is Mexican car insurance?

Different companies price coverage differently, but in general, Personal Liability Insurance (the minimum coverage legally required) is about $10-12 USD per day. For full coverage insurance, plan to pay about $20 USD per day.

When I'm renting a car in Mexico, I always use Discover Cars. Their full coverage insurance only costs about $10 USD per day. ▶︎ Book now with Discover Cars.

With just Personal Liability Insurance, you'll usually have about a $2,000+ USD deductible. The full coverage deductible is often $0 because you're already fully covered.

What is a deductible with car insurance?

If you aren't familiar with what a deductible is, here's a quick explanation.

If you have a $5,000 USD deductible, and you cause $5,250 in damages to the car, you will be responsible for paying the $5,000 deductible. The insurance will cover the remaining $250, after you cover the deductible amount.

As what you select will depend on your budget, do know that cheap Mexican car insurance is one of those "you get what you pay for" type of situations.

If you're wondering what's the best Mexican car insurance, that would be full coverage with no deductible.

Renting A Car in Mexico

Can I buy Mexican auto insurance at the border?

No — There are no companies selling insurance at any U.S.-Mexico land border crossings.

In fact, you need to show proof of Mexican insurance to enter Mexico, so you do need car insurance to travel to Mexico before you drive across the border.

For this, I recommend Baja Bound. Head here to get your FREE quote from Baja Bound, a trusted name in Mexican car insurance for Americans.

Can I rent a car in mexico and drive to the u.s.?

Likely Not — It's actually pretty uncommon that any U.S. car rental companies allow this, though a few do let customers drive a rental car to Mexico.

In Mexico, however, it's very uncommon for rental car Mexico companies to do the same. If you try, the border agents will likely not let you cross any at U.S.-Mexico land borders.

🚙💨 Planning on driving into Mexico with your own car? Head to Driving to Mexico: Everything You need to Know for a deep dive into this topic.

Renting A Car in Mexico

What if I have Mexican car insurance through my credit card?

Some U.S. credit cards provide Collision Damage Waiver (CDW insurance) for their card holders. This is not the equivalent of Personal Liability Insurance, which you're required to have by law.

Now, some car companies will let you take a rental car with just CDW insurance; some won't.

This is just one more reason I always opt for full coverage insurance when I rent with Discover Cars. Their Personal Liability Insurance means I am fully covered in Mexico for any damages to the car and I won't pay out of pocket.

The last time I rented a car, which was in Mexico City (notoriously more expensive than most Cabo rental agencies), I paid just $10 USD per day for full coverage.

Though insurance coverage with Discover Cars is Third Party Liability Insurance (sometimes called TPL insurance, or PLI insurance), it is 100% legal. It is also enough to satisfy the Mexico Personal Liability Insurance requirement.

BEST MEXICO CAR RENTAL COMPANY: Discover Cars

When booking your Mexico car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search both international corporations and local Mexican companies, so you get the best deal.

🚨 Horror stories of using credit card insurance in Mexico

I have been in Mexico long enough, and heard enough horror stories, that I always tell people not to rely on credit card insurance.

If you do opt for it, you'll want to call the credit card company and double check their policies (even the fine print), so you know you're comfortable with it.

Also, know that if anything happens to the car, you will have to pay for 100% of the damages out of pocket when you return the car. You'll then file a claim with the credit card company, and hope they fully reimburse you 🤞

(Spoiler: They don't always do so.)

Purchase general Mexico travel insurance — With a car insurance add on

Another option is to purchase a travel insurance policy for Mexico, and get an upgrade to include your Cabo rental car.

For this, purchase the Explorer Plan with World Nomads, one of the best Mexican travel insurance providers and top names in travel insurance. Note: This is only offered on the Explorer Plan. ▶︎ Get your FREE quote now.

renting a car in mexico

What's the Mexican Car Rental Scam?

What's commonly known as a scam that's specific to renting a car in Mexico, is a common practice at U.S. car rental companies as well.

About six months before writing this article, I booked a rental car in Miami online, and had to pay an extra $200 USD in fees, taxes and additional insurance costs when I picked up the car.

If this has also happened to you, you're already familiar with the "Mexico car rental scam," which isn't unique to Mexico.

If you're lucky enough to have never fallen victim, the "scam" in question is that most renters don't read the fine print (who does?!) and aren't aware of the fees, taxes, etc., that get tacked on.

For many, the price you end up paying is often double what you saw online when you booked the car.

How to avoid this common mexico travel scam

When renting a car in Mexico, you may see rates as low as $5-10 USD per day — and if this seems too good to be true, it is.

This base cost doesn't factor in a whole slew of fees, taxes and the legally-required Mexico car rental insurance, all of which you do have to pay for.

To avoid this most notorious of Mexico travel scams, simply double the price you see online listed as the base price for the car if you're taking the minimum insurance. If you're opting for full coverage, you may even want to triple it.

This new amount is closer to what you end up paying anyway — and now you won't feel "scammed."

Use this formula to calculate your Mexico car rental cost

For a car listed online as $10USD per day, assume you'll actually pay $20 per day for this car with Mexico Personal Liability Insurance (minimum coverage), and $30 per day with full Mexican insurance coverage.

Annoying? Sure is — but this is just the way car rental companies seem to work.

Renting A Car in Mexico: A City by City Guide

Car Rental: Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is one of the best places in the Yucatan Peninsula, and a top Mexico travel destination — so renting a car is common for many travelers. For a car rental, Cancun Airport Mexico (code: CUN) is your best option.

From the airport, renting a car in Cancun is easy, and you'll find the most rental agencies there. It is also the most convenient place, since you can go straight from your flight right to your rental car.

Should I rent a car in Cancun?

Unless you're planning for a few Cancun day trips, there is no need to rent a car to stay in Cancun. There are many great Mayan Ruins near Cancun and cenotes near Cancun that you'll enjoy visiting with your car.

Though there's no Uber in Cancun, you can get around with taxis and Cancun public transportation.

Note: This info also works for traveling to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. As two of the best resort towns in Mexico, they operate about the same.

Is it safe to rent a car in Cancun?

Yes, it is perfectly safe to rent a car and drive in Cancun.

As long as you're compliant with Mexico driving laws, have your Mexican car insurance, and read through the 10 Mexico driving tips below, you should have a great Cancun car rental experience.

For a deeper dive into this topic, check out Is Cancun Safe to Travel to Right Now?

renting a car in mexico

Car Rental: Tulum, Mexico

Located about 1.5 hours south of Cancun, you'll be in Tulum, Mexico. For those wanting to get from Cancun to Tulum in the most comfortable way, consider a Cancun rental car.

Note: There's no Uber in Tulum.

As Cancun is a much bigger city than Tulum, it's easier to get the car in Cancun vs renting a car in Tulum. For a deeper dive into this topic, check out Cancun to Tulum: The 6 Best Transportation Options.

There are a few Tulum car rental companies in Tulum Town (AKA Downtown Tulum), all located on the road that goes from downtown to Tulum Beach.

As Tulum is a small town, there's only about 10 rental centers, so do reserve your car in advance.

renting a car in mexico

Car Rental: Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Right in between Cancun and Tulum, there's the beach town of Playa del Carmen. Much like with Tulum, it's easier to just rent the car at Cancun Airport and drive to Playa del Carmen.

There are several car rental agencies in Playa, but for a Yucatan car rental, Cancun is always the best option.

Note: There's no Uber in Playa del Carmen or Cancun.

renting a car in mexico

Car Rental: Merida, Mexico

Renting a car in Merida, like most cities in Mexico, is easiest at the airport. Merida International Airport (code: MID) is where you'll find the most options, as there are very few car rental agencies outside of the airport at all.

Note: I live in Merida, and have a lot of Merida car rental experience.

Should I rent a car in merida?

With so many great Merida day trips, a rental car comes in handy.

Within two hours of the city, there are about 10 great Merida beaches, the Merida cenotes, Chichen Itza and other Mayan Ruins, the pueblos magicos (magic towns) of Valladolid and Izamal, the pink lakes of Las Coloradas, and more.

renting a car in mexico

Car Rental: Mexico City

For a car rental, Mexico City International Airport (code: MEX) is your best option. This is the most convenient place to get your rental since you're likely flying there anyway.

Renting a car in Mexico City Airport is easy, as there are quite a few agencies on-site. From there, you can drive yourself to your Airbnb or hotel.

Should I rent a car in Mexico City?

Mexico City traffic is very bad, and parking isn't always convenient either. In general, Mexico City is not somewhere many people actually want to drive.

For these reasons, you'll want to make sure that renting a car in Mexico City is the right decision for you. If not, it's very easy to just Uber around and take public transport.

💁‍♀️ My opinion? I lived in Mexico City for about a year, and honestly, I don't suggest driving there. I've done it, but it's not one of the most enjoyable things to do in Mexico City.

Unless you're planning for a few Mexico City day trips, renting a car in Mexico City might not be worthwhile.

There are Ubers, taxis, the metro, buses and the EcoBici bike program, so you have plenty of other options to get around Mexico City.

renting a car in mexico

Car Rental: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Much like other cities in Mexico, renting a car in Cabo is easiest from Los Cabos International Airport (code: SJD).

The airport is located in the city of San Jose del Cabo, about a 45-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas.

As this is a major Mexico resort town, you will only really need a Cabo car rental if you're doing a few day trips. There are a lot of things to do in Cabo itself, so you might not need a rental car.

renting a car in mexico

Car Rental: La Paz, Mexico

La Paz is an up and coming Baja California destination. It is a bit more rustic than Cabo San Lucas, so won't have the same tourism infrastructure.

While La Paz is a beach town itself, the most beautiful beaches in La Paz — Playa Balandra, Playa Tecolote and El Coromuel — are about 45 minutes from the main area of town.

For this reason, a rental car in La Paz, Mexico comes in handy.

As with renting a car in Baja from any city, you'll want to pick it up from the airport. In La Paz, you have La Paz International Airport (code: LAP).

10 Mexico Driving Tips

1. Avoid driving at night in Mexico

When you live in Mexico long enough, you start to realize many people simply avoid driving at night, if they can.

If you do drive at night, stick to only main roads and paid highways, called couta roads.

2. Always use the couta roads (toll roads in Mexico)

In Mexico, there are libre, or free roads, and couta, or paid toll roads.

For longer drives, and when traveling between cities, always opt for paid roads. Yes, they cost money, but they are much better maintained and generally considered safer.

💰 When driving in Mexico, don't forget to have cash for the tolls. They only accept Mexican pesos, not U.S. dollars.

renting a car in mexico

3. Beware of topes (Speed bumps)

Mexican roads are notorious for their abundant amount of topes (speed bumps). While some roads have yellow road signs alerting you to the topes, keep your eyes on the road at all times, because some topes don't have a sign.

4. Download an offline map for driving in Mexico

Your cell signal will go in and out as you travel through rural areas of Mexico, so you'll want to download an offline map from Google Maps or Maps.Me.

While you're at it, don't forget to download some podcasts and songs.

📲 Note: A Mexico SIM Card also comes in handy for a better signal!

renting a car in mexico

5. Mexico speed limit signs are in kilometers per hour

Mexico street signs are in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. For those who are curious, 1 mile is 1.6 kilometers.

Rather than doing conversion math while driving, just make sure the speed limit sign number on the road matches your car's speedometer number.

As you might imagine, the street signs and highway signs in Mexico are also in Spanish. Here are a few you'll want to know:

• 🛑 Alto: Stop
• Retorono: Turn-around, which is where you make legal U-turns
• Entrada: Entrance
• Salida: Exit
• Restringido: Restricted area
• Prohibido: Entry prohibited

6. It's illegal to use your cell phone while driving in Mexico

Not only is this unsafe, it is also illegal in Mexico.

In fact, having your phone in your hand is a ticketable offense, so don't even hold your phone while driving. (🇲🇽 Mexico Fun Fact: It's also illegal to shave or put on make-up while driving.)

When packing for Mexico, don't forget to bring a hands-free phone holder for the car.

renting a car in mexico

7. Mexico gas stations are not self-serve

When you stop for gas, an attendant will pump it for you and take your payment.

Many of these people don't actually work for the gas station, and live off tips. When they finish, it's customary to tip them at least $10-20 pesos ($0.50-1 USD), or more for great customer service.

8. Window cleaners will approach you at stop lights

When you're at a stop light in Mexico, you may be approached by someone wanting to clean your car windshield.

If you want them to, there's no set amount to pay, but $5-10 pesos (about $0.25-0.50 USD) is a standard amount — and well worth it for a clean windshield.

In Mexico, stop lights go from green to yellow, to flashing yellow for a few seconds, to finally, a red light.

🚦 Note: You are still legally supposed to stop at the yellow light, just like in the U.S.

renting a car in mexico

10. The rumors are true about Mexico cops taking bribes

If the cops pull you over — and they usually only will if you give them a reason to — they may expect a cash "payment" in exchange for not ticketing you.

The best ways to insure this doesn't happen to you is to: 1) not speed, 2) not be on your phone, and 3) not break any other Mexico driving laws.

Now, I'm not in any way defending this practice, and what I am about to say might be controversial for some. However, the easiest way to make this problem go away is by paying them 🤷‍♀️

The worst thing you can do is argue because they can take you to jail — and is that where you want to spend your Mexico vacation?

Article 152 & Tarjeton Turistico

About 10 years ago, the Mexican government implemented Article 152, though efforts fell flat. The Tarjetón Turístico tourist card was intended to end police bribes on tourists, so it's sad the program failed.

In the event you come across any info online about Mexico Article 152, the program is no longer operational.

Final Thoughts: Renting A Car in Mexico

A Mexico road trip is one of the best ways to see the country; especially places like the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja California.

Even if you're not doing a full road trip, the easiest way to explore Mexico's hidden gems is by car.

Driving in Mexico is generally considered safe, and renting a car in Mexico is usually a simple, hassle-free process.

BEST MEXICO CAR RENTAL COMPANY: Discover Cars

When booking your Mexico car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search both international corporations and local Mexican companies, so you get the best deal.

For the sake of convenience, just pick your Mexico car rental up at the airport when you fly in.

One of the most important things to keep in mind for a Mexico car rental, is to rent with a reputable company like Discover Cars.

Make sure you also purchase Mexican car insurance, as you're not covered in any way through your U.S. or Canadian policy.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

🚑 Should I buy Mexico travel insurance?

100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from World Nomads, the biggest name in travel insurance. (Read more)

💧Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You'll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters your drinking water so you don't get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. (Read more)

🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. (Read more)

📲 Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don't have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card. As Mexico's largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. (Read more)

🏩 What's the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you're considering a Mexico Airbnb, don't forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

🧳 What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

✈️ What's the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend Skyscanner.

🎫 Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don't need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you do need a Mexico travel visa. The majority of travelers will receive a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa upon arrival.

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Source: https://travelmexicosolo.com/renting-a-car-in-mexico/

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