Many people move to Mexico in their own car from the US. Importing a car is doable, but the rules depend on your status and region. Here are the 2026 options.
Option 1: temporary import (TIP)
The TIP (Temporary Import Permit) lets you bring a foreign car for the length of your stay. It's issued online or at the border, requires a deposit ($200–$400 depending on the car's year) refunded when you take it out. A TIP is needed everywhere EXCEPT the border zone (Baja California and a ~20–30 km strip along the border) and Sonora.
Documents for the TIP
- Passport and tourist card (FMM) or resident card.
- Title and registration in your name.
- Driver's license.
Option 2: permanent legalization (customs)
To keep the car in Mexico permanently, you legalize it through a Mexican customs broker (agente aduanal). Not every car qualifies — usually specific model years. Cost and requirements depend on the model and year. The government periodically announces amnesty programs for older US cars.
Key nuances
- With temporary residency (Residente Temporal) you can keep a foreign car on a TIP. With permanent residency (Permanente) no TIP is issued — you need legalization or a Mexican car.
- You can't let a Mexican national drive your foreign-plated car.
- Penalties for an expired TIP are serious, up to confiscation.
Alternative — buy a car in Mexico
Often it's easier to sell your car at home and buy local: no TIP or legalization hassle. A foreigner with a CURP can buy a car in Mexico.
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