Whether you’re visiting the US or heading south for Mexico, auto insurance can be a tricky part of your plan. Every state in the US requires some amount of auto insurance, but that policy most likely won’t carry over to Mexico. You must purchase Mexico insurance in order to protect yourself on the road once you leave what’s known as the border zone or the free zone. Mexico requires you to have “proof of financial responsibility,” which is proof that you can pay for the damages you may cause in an accident. Some areas of Mexico use this as a substitute for liability coverage.
What Does Mexico Auto Insurance Cover?
Just like US insurance, Mexico auto insurance provides protection for you while operating your vehicle. Possible coverages include:
Liability: In case of an accident considered your fault, liability provides coverage for damages you cause to the other driver or the driver’s property.
Personal injury protection: Also known as PIP or medical protection, this coverage may help cover medical expenses for you and/or your passengers.
Vandalism/theft: Depending on the policy, there is both partial and full theft/vandalism coverage available.
Roadside assistance: This perk also depends on the policy, but this coverage will assist in the cases such as you run out of gas, have a dead battery, or need to change a tire.
Technically, the only insurance required by Mexico law is liability. If you don’t have liability insurance, you can be arrested after an accident unless you can provide proof of financial responsibility.
Do I Need a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit?
If you are not a Mexican citizen and wish to drive your vehicle into Mexico, you must purchase a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP) through Banjercito. There are exceptions, as areas like the Baja Peninsula and Sonora Free Zone do not require a TIP. A TIP is not a substitute for auto insurance. It’s simply a permit that allows you to bring your car across the Mexican border, and it won’t protect you or your car.
Can I Insure a Rental?
If you decide to rent a car in Mexico, most rental companies will offer insurance. Only the basic liability is required in Mexico, but this liability coverage has already been factored into the price of the rental. These companies may also offer optional coverage such as supplemental liability and loss damage waiver. Another additional coverage is personal accident insurance, which covers you and your passengers in the case of injury resulting from an accident. Double check your health insurance to see if you need this or if you will be covered.
What Do I Need to Buy Auto Insurance?
To purchase Mexico auto insurance, make sure you can present these items:
- A valid driver’s license
- Vehicle title/registration
- Year, make and model of the vehicle
- Current insurance carrier and policy
Where Can I Buy Mexico Auto Insurance?
It’s recommended that you purchase Mexico auto insurance before travel. Contact Us now to get an instant quote.
Important Information to Know
It is illegal for a Mexican resident to drive your car in Mexico. If they are pulled over while driving your car, the vehicle may be impounded, and this cost is not covered by insurance. Make sure to study Mexico traffic laws and signs before taking to the road.
If you’re looking to take a trip to Mexico, contact one of our agents at Sanborn’s. We’ll make the insurance process easy and get you on the road to Mexico.