Required Documents for Driving in Mexico

Driving a resident auto (MX-plated vehicles) involves more than simply owning a car and knowing how to drive. Whether you are Mexican or a foreigner, it’s essential to know the documents required by law in order to drive legally and without complications

Many of our expat clients have told us they were unaware of these requirements until they faced a traffic fine or an issue with their insurance. That’s why, in this article, we share with you which documents you need to carry when driving a vehicle in Mexico to avoid issues with the corresponding authorities.

Mandatory Documents for the Driver

1. Valid Driver's License

This is the most important document for driving in Mexico. You can drive with either a foreign or Mexican driver’s license, but it must be the correct type for the vehicle you operate (private car, motorcycle, etc.).

2. Official ID with photo

Although it’s not always requested, it may be required by authorities during certain checkpoints. For foreigners, this can be a passport or a residency card.

3. Valid Vehicle Registration Card (“Tarjeta de Circulación”)

This document certifies that the vehicle is legally registered with the corresponding traffic authority (such as SEMOVI, REPUVE, etc.). It includes the owner’s information, technical details of the vehicle, and the license plate number.

Important: Many foreigners are unfamiliar with the Tarjeta de Circulación. It is not the same as the title of ownership or the bill of sale. It’s a specific document issued by the local traffic authority that authorizes a vehicle to circulate.

Mandatory Documents for the Vehicle

1. Valid License Plates

The vehicle must have current plates, correctly installed (front and rear), matching the information on the registration card. Plates must be in good condition and unaltered.

2. Liability Insurance

Since 2019, it has been mandatory to have valid third-party liability insurance when driving on federal roads and bridges, and in most states as well. Proof of insurance can be physical or digital. But it’s important that you have it at hand when an officer asks for it

3. Vehicle Emissions Verification (if applicable)

In Mexico City and states such as the State of Mexico, Jalisco, among others, the vehicle must meet emissions requirements. Compliance is shown with a valid verification sticker or certificate.

4. Proof of Tax Payment (“Tenencia” or “Refrendo”)

Although not always requested, it’s a good idea to keep the current year’s payment receipt handy, especially when processing vehicle paperwork or during special inspection operations.

What does all this have to do with your auto insurance?

While these documents are required by traffic laws, they can also impact your experience in the event of a claim. Here are a few scenarios:

Driver’s License: Not having it—or having an expired one—does not automatically void coverage, but it can complicate the process if it’s not current or is the wrong type for the vehicle.

Official ID: This is not usually decisive for the insurer, but it may be required during the claim process. For example, when the adjuster arrives at the accident scene and needs to fill out certain claim documents.

Vehicle Registration Card and Valid Plates: This is where many people are affected without realizing it. Some insurers in Mexico may delay or even deny payment of a claim if the vehicle did not have a valid registration card or if the plates were expired or registered in the wrong state.

This could be especially relevant in cases of:

Total loss
Total theft
Serious bodily injury to third parties
High-value claims

Now you know: keeping your vehicle documents up to date not only protects you with the authorities but also ensures your insurance company has no reason to delay or deny your claim

In conclusion

Whether you live in Mexico or are just visiting for a few months, driving with the correct documents will help you avoid legal trouble and headaches with your insurance.

Important: Keep in mind that the information shared here applies to vehicles with Mexican plates, also known as resident vehicles.