For the most part, driving is as much part of any culture as anything else. One of our first big milestones toward adulthood is getting a driver’s license. Our first bills are insurance and registration. So, it’s no wonder we don’t think twice about driving our car, let alone the regulation underneath it. But what about driving a foreign vehicle?
If you want to drive a Mexican-registered car in the United States, or, what if you are in Mexico and you want to drive a U.S. car? The answer depends on where you are LICENSED.
*For purposes below, “U.S.” can also represent “Canadian” or any other country foreign to Mexico.
Driving a Domestic Car in Mexico (U.S. Drivers License | U.S. Car | Mexico Driving)
Yes. But you will need to purchase the Mex-Insurance to cover the legal liability requirement. You may also need to procure the following depending on your situation:
Driving a Domestic Car in the U.S. (US Drivers License | U.S. Car | United States Driving)
Yes. But the more common question is:
Can we buy short-term insurance for the U.S.?
Not many companies in the U.S. sell daily-term policies like they do in Mexico. But, if you choose an online broker like progressive.com or geico.com, they will pro-rate your refund if you are in the United States for a short time. *Pro-rate does not exist in Mexico.
Driving a Foreign Car (US Drivers License | Mexico Car | Mexico Driving)
No. This is only asking for trouble because the car should be registered locally. If you are not the owner, then you need the owner’s permission and even then, you’re just asking for trouble. You should always match your driver’s license country with the vehicle registration country. The exception is Rental Car agencies, they can rent you a car registered anywhere but you will have a contract in the glove box that gives you permission to operate.
Driving a Foreign Car (U.S. Drivers License | Mexico Car | U.S. Driving)
Again, you should match your registration with the driver’s license by country. So, this is not advised. If you are operating a vehicle that is not registered to you – make sure you are listed on the insurance and have the owner’s permission by letter in the glove box.
Driving a Foreign Car (Mexico Drivers License | Mexico Car | U.S. Driving)
Yes! The northbound insurance program offered through Chubb automatically increases the liability limit of the policy to match state requirements. The standard coverage is $300,000 and it includes legal assistance and roadside assistance.
Driving a Foreign car (Mexico Drivers License | U.S. Car | U.S. Driving)
No. In order to operate a vehicle in the United States, you must have a valid driver’s license from your residence state.
Can I drive a U.S Car with a Mexico Drivers License in Mexico?
No. This is not legal, and therefore you won’t be able to buy insurance for this. You might also have the car impounded.
Can I drive a Mexico-registered vehicle in Mexico with a Mexico driver’s license?
Yes of course. You will need to purchase domestic insurance as a Mexican resident from someone licensed in Mexico. https://www.qualitas.com.mx
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