How to Convert a Foreign Driving License in Mexico

Driving in Mexico with a foreign license

If you’re visiting Mexico for a short time, most Mexican states allow you to drive with your foreign license for up to 180 days from the date you enter the country. 

That means driving in Mexico with a U.S. license or a Canadian license is perfectly legal for short visits, and you won’t need to get a Mexican license right away. However, if it expires while you’re in Mexico, you can no longer use it even if the 180-day period isn’t over.  

In addition, if your foreign license is not in Spanish or English, you’ll need to carry a Spanish translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is a translation of your license into multiple languages, including Spanish. It can help you avoid misunderstandings at police checkpoints and rental counters. An IDP does not replace your license, as you’ll need to carry both when driving. 

Mexico driving license requirements for foreigners

To apply for a driving license in Mexico, you must meet the following requirements: 

• Residence: You must either be a temporary or permanent resident.
• Valid foreign license: You need a valid driving license from your country.
• Minimum age: The legal driving age in Mexico is 18 years old.
• Medical fitness: Some states may require a medical test to determine if you are fit to drive. 

Required documents for converting a foreign driver's license in Mexico

Here are the documents you need to apply for a Mexican driving license;

• Valid passport
• Residency card (Tarjeta de Residente Temporal or Permanente)
• Proof of Mexican address (Comprobante de Domicilio): Usually a utility bill, property tax receipt, bank statement, or rental contract dated within the last 60–90 days.
• Foreign driver’s license
• Certified translation (traducción certificada): If your foreign driver’s license is not in Spanish or English.

Note: Make at least two photocopies of every document you bring. 

How to apply for a Mexican driving license 

The process of getting a Mexican driving license varies by state. Here’s an overview of what you can expect;

Step 1: Book your appointment (If required)

In many states, you’ll need to schedule your visit online through your local mobility or traffic authority (Secretaría de Movilidad, Secretaría de Transporte, or a similar department). Look for appointment types labeled “Cita para Licencia de Conducir” or “Canje de Licencia Extranjera.” Morning appointments are usually the most in demand, so you may want to consider it. Alternatively, you can also walk into the Secretaría de Movilidad office to apply for a Mexican license, whichever you feel like doing the most.

Step 2: Prepare your documents and copies

Before your appointment, gather all required documents, such as your passport, residency card, proof of address, and your foreign driver’s license. You’ll need both the originals and at least two photocopies of each. If your license or other documents are not in Spanish, make sure to get a certified translation in advance to avoid delays. 

Step 3: Attend your appointment at the licensing office

Arrive early on the day of your appointment. Once there, you’ll hand your documents to the clerk for review. In certain states, you’ll also be asked to sign a Carta Responsiva, which is a liability waiver stating that you understand and will follow local traffic laws.

Step 4: Take required driving tests (If applicable)

You may need to take a written driving test depending on the state you live in (most states skip the practical driving test). The questions cover road signs, speed limits, and safe driving practices. Some states offer an English version of the test, but the translations may be imperfect. 

Step 5: Pay the licensing fee

Once your paperwork and tests are complete, you’ll pay the licensing fee. Costs vary by state and license validity, but you can expect to pay around MXN 500 to MXN 1,000 for a two- to three-year license.

Step 6: Receive your license

In many states, you’ll receive your driver’s license on the same day, shortly after your biometrics are taken. The Quezon City LTO branch is known to be the fastest, so you can check it out. In other areas, the office might issue a temporary paper license and send the plastic card to your home within a few days. Either way, once you have your license in hand, you can legally drive in Mexico as a resident.

State-by-state rules for exchanging U.S & Canadian licenses in Mexico

• Mexico City (CDMX): This is one of the easiest places to get licensed. With a temporary or permanent visa, you can apply by showing your passport, residency card, and proof of local address. Unlike when exchanging your driver's license in Canada.
   
• Jalisco: U.S. and Canadian license holders can skip the practical driving test, but you may need a written traffic exam and eye test. You also have to apply in person with all required documents.
   
• Northern Border States: Places like Baja California, Sonora, and Nuevo León often accept U.S. licenses as proof of driving ability. You’ll still need residency, a vision test, and sometimes a written exam in Spanish.
   
• State of México (Edomex) & Others: Foreigners follow the same process as new drivers. You’ll need to take a knowledge test, a health exam, and standard paperwork. A practical road test is usually not required, but the written test is often only in Spanish.

Do you need certified translations to exchange your foreign license in Mexico?

You’ll need a certified translation (traducción certificada) of your foreign license if it is not in Spanish. It must be completed by a sworn translator (perito traductor) recognised by the state’s judicial or government authority.

Even if your license is in English, some states still require a translation to avoid any doubts about the details.

How Translayte can help

Translayte provides Sworn (certified) Spanish translations for foreign driver's licenses, passports, and other supporting documents required in Mexico. Our sworn translators are approved in Mexico, ensuring 100% acceptance. Additionally, Translayte's certified driver’s license translation services are 

• Easy to order online
• Offers competitive translation rates starting from $31.75 per page
• Delivered on time without compromising on quality 

Do you need certified translations to submit your Mexican driver's license application? Request a free quote to get started. 

Cost of getting a Mexican driver's license

The cost of getting a Mexican driver's license is between MXN 500 and MXN 1,000 (around USD 20–60). But it may vary depending on the state where you apply. Other costs may include; 

In addition to the license fee, you may need to pay for:

• Medical or vision tests: Around MXN 100–300 (USD 5–15) if required by your state.
• Written or practical test fees: About MXN 150–500 (USD 8–25) in states where these aren’t included in the main fee.
• Certified translations of documents: Around MXN 300–800 (USD 15–45) per page if they’re not in Spanish.

Mexican road rules and driving culture

• Drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left.
• Seatbelts are required for all passengers, front and back.
• Mobile phone use is only allowed with a hands-free device.
• The legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit is usually 0.08%, but some areas (like parts of Mexico City) have lower limits. Penalties can include fines, license suspension, or jail time
• Carry valid Mexican liability insurance at all times.
• The speed limit is 40-50km/h in Urban areas, 80 km/h on Secondary roads, and 100-110 km/h on highways.
• Police stops and checkpoints are common near state borders and in high-security areas.

Benefits of holding a Mexican driving license

• Legal driving in Mexico: Allows you to drive anywhere in the country without needing an international permit.
• Widely accepted form of ID: Can be used as official identification for banking, hotel check-ins, and government processes.
• Easier car rental: Most Mexican rental agencies accept a local license without extra documentation.
• Facilitates insurance coverage: Some insurers offer better rates or simplified processes for drivers with a Mexican license.

Ready to start your foreign driver’s license conversion in Mexico? Request a free quote to get certified Spanish translations for your driver's license application.