If you are driving to Mexico, keep in mind that American driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico but a temporary vehicle importation permit is a must for a foreign registered vehicle to enter. This permit can be obtained at the border but several documents must be provided such as proof vehicle ownership, proof of American registration, a valid American driver’s license, an affidavit from any lien holders authorizing temporary importation and proof of citizenship. Temporary permits are not required in certain designated border areas, such as those immediately south of California, where there is a lot of local tourist traffic. Before driving to Mexico, be sure you know exactly where you are going before relying on this alternative. The vehicle permit is valid for six months and is good for multiple entries. The temporary vehicle importation permit must be paid for with a credit card and must be issued by a major American financial institution in the name of the vehicle owner. Keep in mind, cash is not accepted. If you do not have a credit card, a bond must be purchased and a processing fee must be paid. You must display proof of payment on the vehicle windshield, and close out the permit on the way out of Mexico. This document constitutes a promise to take the car out of the country within a specified period, and the car will be confiscated if you overstay. Recreational vehicles and large trucks require additional permits. It is important to remember that it is illegal to import used vehicles permanently into Mexico except in designated northern border areas. Your vehicle can be confiscated if it is not properly imported. It is illegal to sell a car brought in on a temporary permit, even to another non-resident. A temporary vehicle importation permit will be issued to a tourist only for one 180-day period in one year. Visitors intending longer stays are expected to obtain a non-immigrant visa, in which case their vehicle permits will follow the same timing as their visa. If the car will remain in Mexico for more than 180 days, a tax of approximately 30 percent of the value of the vehicle is levied. If you plan on driving to Mexico, keep in mind that auto insurance issued outside the country is not valid in Mexico, and you must obtain insurance from a Mexican company and you must do this at the border before entering Mexico. As in other parts of Latin America, if there is an accident, both drivers can be held responsible pending an investigation. They can be jailed and their vehicles seized if there is no proof of ability to pay. In case of serious personal injury, both drivers may be jailed in any event. When driving to Mexico, make sure you have all your paperwork in order so you can enjoy your visit to a very beautiful country. For more information with driving to mexico, please visit us on our website.
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