If you are driving beyond the FREE zone in Mexico, you will need a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP). In addition to obtaining the permit online, you can obtain the permit in person at the border Banjercito offices, and at one of the Mexican Consulate offices in the U.S. that offer this service.
How to Obtain a Vehicle Importation Permit in Person.
TIPs can be acquired only through Mexico’s Banjercito government agency. To obtain a permit in person you can make an appointment at one of the Mexican Consulates that offer this service: Houston, Dallas, Austin, Albuquerque, Phoenix, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Denver. If you don’t have enough time for an appointment at the Mexican Consulate near you, you can obtain the permit at one of the Banjercito offices at the border. 
The following documents, both original and copies, are required to get a TIP:
· For Mexican nationals living abroad, a Permanent Resident Card, Passport Card, Foreign passport
· For Foreign citizens, a Passport or passport card
· Mexican immigration permit
· Valid U.S. driver’s license and photo
· Vehicle registration
· Mexican auto insurance
Permits can also be obtained online at Banjercito’s official website.
What is the cost of a Vehicle Importation Permit?
The cost of a Vehicle Importation Permit is USD 59.15, at the exchange rate to Mexican Pesos at the time of the process, and the importer will have to leave a guarantee deposit depending on the year of the vehicle. Vehicles models 2007 and newer USD 400, between 2001 and 2006 USD 300, previous to 2000 USD 200. Permits processed at consular offices can be paid by debit or credit card. Those processed online, with a credit card, and those processed at one of the border offices, in cash, credit, and debit cards.
Do I Need a Vehicle Importation Permit?
If you plan on driving outside of the Baja/Sonora Free Zone or Mexico Free Zone, you will need a temporary importation permit. If you plan to enter Mexico in Baja and take the ferry from La Paz to the mainland, you will need to obtain the permit prior to starting your road trip. There are no offices in La Paz to obtain the permit in person.
Do I Need Mexican Auto Insurance?
In addition to having a TIP, you must also carry Mexican auto insurance. U.S. auto insurance policies are not recognized in Mexico. Mexico insurance is mandatory and you will need proof of financial responsibility in case of an accident.
When and Where do I cancel the Vehicle Importation Permit?
Permits can only be canceled at the Banjercito border offices. To receive the guarantee deposit back, you must cancel the permit before the expiration. Click here to verify your permit.
If you paid in cash, the deposit will be returned in cash, if you paid with a debit or credit card, the deposit will be returned to the same card the next working bank day, with the same amount of Mexican pesos that was deposited. It is important to take into consideration the exchange rate both at the time of making the deposit as well as when it is returned.
Learn More
The dedicated and experienced agents at Sanborn’s Mexico Insurance can assist you in learning about vehicle importation permits and Mexican auto insurance to ensure you are prepared for your trip.
Call today at 800-222-0158 for additional information.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.