Car rental in Mexico was honestly the best travel decision I’ve ever made. It allowed me to drive anywhere I pleased, visit off the beaten path locations that aren’t too touristy, and experience parts of the country that most travelers really don’t visit.
I understand, driving in another country can be pretty intimidating at the start—I was nervous too—but once you get the hang of it and remember some basic tips, it becomes one of the best ways to experience the breathtaking views and vibrant culture of Mexico.
If you’re considering lounging in Cancun for the weekend or seeing the Yucatán for an entire month, we’ve got all the information you need to get a car rental in Mexico without the stress—and thoroughly indulge in your road trip.
1. Renting a car in Mexico is a game-changer
When I arrived in Mexico, I figured I’d just be taking buses, colectivos, and taxis everywhere. And sure, those work for getting from place to place, but they don’t provide the same sense of freedom. But then I realized that it was great having my own vehicle because I could stop at those tiny taco stands, visit relaxed beaches that weren’t full of tourists, and take random excursions into the mountains without worrying about bus timetables.
So, one day on my trip, I was driving from Valladolid to Mérida, and I noticed this sign for a cenote that wasn’t even marked on my map. I figured I’d take the road, drove down this dirt track, and spent the afternoon swimming in this really clear pool in the middle of the jungle.
Quite literally, it was one of the highlights of my trip—and I absolutely wouldn’t have discovered it if I hadn’t been driving myself.
2. Finding Your Car: Things You Need to Know
Choose reputable rental firms
When choosing the rental agency in Mexico, you need to be careful about their reputation. Go with the major names such as Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, or Alamo. They all tend to have good customer service, smooth procedures, and properly maintained vehicles.
I booked with Hertz because I’ve used them in foreign countries previously, so I already knew the drill. Their desk was very easy to find in the airport, and they actually speak English here—which is wonderful when you’re signing the rental agreement.
I’ve heard mixed reviews about the local rental agencies. People have been lucky, and then other people are complaining about extra fees or bad cars. Honestly, it might be worth spending a little bit extra upfront in order to avoid any hassles later.
Understand the Insurance Requirements
The bad thing about renting in Mexico has to be the insurance. I learned the hard way that many of those sweet deals on the internet don’t cover the third-party liability insurance you require. And here is the thing— even if your credit card covers you with rental insurance (many U.S. cards do), it won’t suffice for Mexico.
I booked a car online for supposedly $15 a day. When I showed up at the counter, however, I was surprised with the fact that I would need to purchase liability insurance—so, in total, it would end up being closer to $45 a day. Such an aggravation, but better now than being surprised in person at the desk.
Always read the small print, and if in doubt, simply phone the rental company in advance and ask them to double-check for you what is included and any extras that you may need.
Age and paperwork
If you want to rent a car in Mexico, you generally need to be at least 25. Some put the limit at 21, but remember you’ll likely need to pay some extra because they’re charging you extra for being the “young driver” if you’re under 25. And make sure you have a valid driver’s license and a card in your name for the deposit, of course.
As long as your license is in English, you’re perfectly safe without an International Driving Permit (IDP). But if your license is foreign language-based or you’re going into some remote areas, it’s worth it to pick up an IDP just in case. I never bought an IDP myself, and never had any issues, but I always carried my license and passport with me just in case I was pulled over.
3. Choosing a Ride: Things to Consider
Picking up the car is really easy—just be prepared for it. As soon as I signed the agreement, I walked the rental agent through the walkaround to look over the car for scratches and dings. Seriously, I highly suggest you do the same with your phone in hand to grab some pictures. Take pictures from all sides, including the top and underneath the bumpers. It may seem like too much, but trust me, it will be worth it later.
I returned the rental car the other day, and the rental company spotted the small scratch I wasn’t aware I’d gotten. The rental company attempted to make me pay for it, but I produced these old photographs I’d taken when I’d leased the vehicle, and they completely backed off. That digital record really saved my hide!
4. Getting Around: Useful Hints for Driving in Mexico
Drive Defensively
Mexican drivers are really unpredictable, right? Sometimes you can’t even read the traffic signs, or people just disregard them. It’s quite common to see people passing on curves, stopping unexpectedly, or using hazard lights for no particular reason. So, just keep your eyes on the road and be prepared to react quickly!
I’ve noticed that there are speed bumps, or “topes,” everywhere—and some really aren’t very visible. If you drive very fast over one, it can definitely ruin your car. So just drive slowly when you’re approaching towns or schools, even if you don’t see a sign at first.
Avoid driving after sunset
This tip is non-negotiable for me: avoid driving at night in unfamiliar or rural areas. Besides the obvious dangers of poor lighting and limited visibility, there’s also the risk of animals wandering onto the road, unmarked construction, or unexpected checkpoints.
So I made the big mistake on one evening by leaving the beachside town once it was getting dark. I was driving down the two-lane road when I almost collided with a cow who was lounging in my lane. From there, I vowed I would always drive back wherever I was crashing before dark when I was driving out in the country.
Whenever possible, use the toll roads
Mexico’s toll roads, the “cuotas,” are usually much better than the free roads, the “libres.” They’re faster, safer, and often include emergency response or roadside assistance if you need it. Sure, you need to pay a few pesos, but really, the peace of mind is totally worth it.
I drove the cuota highway from Cancun to Tulum and saved a full hour on the trip. You know what? I wasn’t weaving around potholes, and I wasn’t worrying about other drivers slamming on the brakes. Just a tip, though: be sure to carry cash because many of the booths don’t accept cards.
5. Filling the Tank: The Scoop
So, Mexican gas stations are really different than the kind I’m used to in the U.S. They’re full-serve, and the person actually pumps the gas for you. It’s super convenient, but you’ve gotta be on your toes.
Just a heads up: remind them to reset the pump back to zero before you fill your gas tank. I’ve heard some pretty wild stories (and narrowly escaped falling victim once myself) about attendants tampering with the reading to scam unsuspecting tourists. Now, I always get out of the car, watch the keypad, and triple-check the price before I pay.
It’s completely acceptable and pleasant to leave 10 to 20 pesos for your attendant, particularly if they wash your windshield or fill up your oil.
6. Parking: Chill and Smart
Parking in Mexico varies a lot in different places. In the smaller towns, you will often find free street parking. In the cities, it gets slightly tougher. Watch out for those parking lots and garages if you need some extra security, though, mainly at night.
In other towns, you’ll find locals who’ll agree to “watch your car” while you’re away, and it’ll cost you 10–30 pesos. I give ’em a small tip—gotta maintain that peace of mind, you know, all while not spending too much.
Keep in mind, just like anywhere, don’t leave your valuables out in the open. I carried a reusable shopping bag in the trunk where I put my phone charger, sunglasses, and my other miscellaneous items that I did not want exposed.
7. Exploring Mexico: Top Destinations by Car
With the car rental, the entire country almost feels accessible now. Have a look at some of the places I absolutely loved exploring.
Mexico City
Sure, it can be really frustrating getting from place to place with all the insane traffic, but having a car really allowed me to be able to make those day trips to popular places like Teotihuacán and Xochimilco. I have to admit, it’s breathtaking driving through the mountains there.
Oaxaca
The ride along the Sierra Madre from Oaxaca City all the way down the coast is really breathtaking. Imagine twisting roads, misty small towns, and scenery that absolutely makes you want to stop every five minutes.
Yucatán Peninsula
Seriously, it is the best place for a road trip! I headed out early at Chichén Itzá, before the buses began inundating the area, swam in some incredible off-the-beaten-path cenotes, and explored the vibrant towns of Izamal and Valladolid.
Baja California
Baja is such fun if you like road trips. The road trip from Tijuana all the way down to Cabo San Lucas is filled with desert landscapes, sweet beach towns, and some terrific taco stands.
8. Safety First: Precautions to Remember
It is relatively safe in Mexico if you exercise some common sense while driving.
If possible, avoid gas stations around airports. Other travelers have reported they’ve encountered scams with card skimming or overcharging. If in doubt, simply pay in cash and ensure you keep your receipt.
Be sure to park in secure, well-lit areas, preferably, if you’re leaving your vehicle for the night. Save those emergency numbers in your phone, such as your rental agency, local emergency numbers (and remember, in Mexico it is 911), and your embassy if you’re traveling from abroad. I always inform a friend or relative where I’m going if I’m going somewhere far away.
Being just a bit more cautious can make a big difference.
9. Returning the Car: Final Steps
Be sure to leave yourself some extra time when dropping off your vehicle, okay? Don’t forget, fill up that gas tank, too—some places will really hit you with an enormous fee if it isn’t filled up. If your vehicle is all dirty and dusty after your journey (the beach really trashed mine out), it is well worth having it washed in order to avoid the cleaning fee.
Be sure you touch base with the rental agency and acquire that last receipt. Don’t lose any of your paperwork until the hold on your credit card comes off, something that should only take a few days. It is all about ending your vacation as relaxed as you began it.
10. Overall Considerations
Renting out a car in Mexico completely transformed the vibe of my vacation. I was able to relax, explore those off-the-beaten-path places, and actually experience the country at my own pace. Sure, it has the rough spots—such as getting the insurance figured out or avoiding potholes—but really, it’s totally worth it.
If you’re considering renting an automobile for your vacation in Mexico, I absolutely say go for it! Just be prepared, plan ahead, and remain calm. Your next exciting experience may be closer than you realize!
What do you think?