Driving your US or Canadian car
Rules for foreign-plated vehicles.
Why it matters
Customs law. Vehicles can be seized.
Who helps
ANAM / Aduanas (customs), Banjercito (temporary import permits, or TIPs), and the BCS customs inspection office.
What to do: Check the rules before you drive your foreign-plated car in Mexico.
Key points
- On the Baja peninsula: foreign-owned, foreign-plated vehicles can circulate in the border region, which the BCS government says includes the half-peninsula, without a TIP, as long as plates and registration are current.
- A Mexican national may not drive it unless the foreign owner is on board. Violations can lead to seizure and fines.
- Going to the mainland (for example by ferry from La Paz): you need a Banjercito TIP. TIPs are available to visitors and temporary residents, not to permanent residents.
BCS driver's license (residents)
foreigners with legal stay and a BCS address can get a state license by proving legal stay (resident card), proof of address, CURP, a medical certificate, passing the road-safety course and exam, and paying the fee; it's issued through the municipal traffic office.
Common mistakes
- Lending your car to a local caretaker.
- Becoming a permanent resident while relying on a TIP.
Say it in Spanish
- ¿Necesito permiso de importación temporal para llevar este auto al macizo continental?
Do I need a temporary import permit to take this car to the mainland?
Terms
Sources
- Gobierno de BCS (checked 2026-10)
- ANAM – vehicle import (checked 2026-10)
- Ley de Tránsito Terrestre de BCS
- BCS – license fees (checked 2026-10)
Confirm the details for your case with your notario or attorney.
Common questions
Can I drive my US or Canadian car in Baja?
Yes, the peninsula is a free zone. For mainland Mexico you need a temporary import permit, which permanent residents generally can't get.