Mexico is home to one of the few Caribbean coastlines that can be reached by land. Travelers can drive from the United States or Guatemala across the Mexican border and to wherever their final destination may be. However, travelers can also travel via bus or train across the border.
There are approximately 40 border crossings from the United States into Mexico and about 10 between Mexico and Guatemala. Although may seem convenient, it is not considered to be an affordable way to travel. Driving also comes with many warnings and much paperwork. However, it is one of the best ways to see the Mexican countryside, and may be well worth any of the other inconveniences.
Other options, however, make good alternatives. Travelers coming from the United States can catch a train from San Diego, El Paso, or Del Rio to Tijuana, Ciudad Juárez, and Ciudad Acuña respectively. Buses also travel from the United States, usually from Texas, as well as from Belize City to Chetumal, and from many points along the border to Guatemalan cities.
Once you have passed into Mexico, you will stop at the Customs Office, or Aduana. At the Aduana there will be a Banco de Ejercito, also called by the shortened name "Banjercito." Here you will need to present many forms of paperwork, as well as a $23(USD) fee, payable by major credit card only. The name on the credit card must match the name on the car's registration.
Documents you will need to present include:
Valid, non-Mexican drivers' license.
The original car registration and a copy of the car title. If the owner of the registration is not present then there must be a notarized form authorizing the drivers to be driving the vehicle.
Original immigration documents, depending on your travel status within Mexico.
A signed declaration of your plans to return to your country of origin with your vehicle. This may be obtained through AAA or Sanborn's in the United States or at the Banjercito once you have crossed the border.
Temporary Importation Application, which says that you are importing the vehicle only temporarily. You must remember to cancel this when you leave Mexico.
These last two documents do not state that you must leave Mexico through the border zone which you entered. However, if you do not have these forms ahead of time, Mexican officials will make two photocopies and charge you for the photocopies.
While this may be a long list of documents, there are even more rules when it comes to driving. Travelers must have Mexican auto insurance, even if staying for no more than a day. There are several insurance agencies generally found near the border.
It's also a necessity to keep in mind that, while the person whose name is on the documentation does not need to drive at all times, he or she must always be in the car.
Further, documentation must be in the car at all times. Drivers should also watch for checkpoints. At such military or police checkpoints, you will be asked for all of your documentation.
Car importation papers are good for six months or one year, though tourist visas expire every 30 days. Just to be safe, overestimate the amount of time you intend to spend in the country. When you leave, sometime within the time of your permit, approximately 180 days, you must return your car documents to the Banjercito at the Aduana. However, while some Banjercitos are open 24 hours, others close early, and some stay closed entirely on Sundays. If you do not return these documents, you will be fined $250(USD) per 15 days, and if you return to Mexico you may be jailed. However, you may leave and return to Mexico any number of times within the 180 day period.
Travelers are also encouraged to look into car rentals for their location of choice, rather than driving their own vehicle. This might cut down on some of the hassles of bringing your own vehicle into the country.
For help in the case of an accident or to check on road conditions, travelers can call 01-800-903-9200, or 555-250-0151 in Mexico City, where English-speaking operators can offer assistance. For the most up-to-date information on any changes in the rules, interested vacationers may want to call Módulo de Importación Temporal de Automóviles, Aduana Nuevo Laredo, the Nuevo Laredo Customs office at 867-712-2071.
As always, the goal for most travelers is to remain as safe as possible while enjoying your trip. Travelers visiting the Mexican Caribbean by land may have to take a few extra precautions, but may find it a more satisfying journey.
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