Buying a House In Mexico--Vehicles Temporary Import Permits (TIP) Intro

A car permit (TIP) is not required in the "Free Zone" which is North and South Baja and along all the US / Mexico border up to approx. 16 to 20 miles in to Mexico. It also includes the part of Sonora west of HWY 15 to Guaymas and a portion east of HWY 15, north of highway 2. Also, there is no need for a TIP in Quintana Roo, but you need to drive your vehicle there which requires a car permit. However, in areas not requiring a TIP, you must have a valid FMM tourist card; otherwise, your car is not legal as you are not legal, and your insurance is void. For those entering as a tourist your TIP is normally for 180 days. You may obtain your TIP as you enter Mexico for $59 or on-line (10 to 60 days before entering) by clicking the blue button.

Always check for current fees and costs.

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​The deposit is $400 for 2007 and newer vehicles, $300 for 2001 to 2006 vehicles and $200 for older vehicles.

Vehicle permits are digital and windshield stickers are no longer issued. Applicants receive a digital copy via email.

Those who obtain their TIP online must still stop at the border to register their entry into Mexico, with a FMM date stamped.

I advise getting your TIP at the border. if you get it online, and for any reason your car does not enter Mexico, Aduana considers your car as being in Mexico. It is very difficult to resolve.

You may only request a TIP for a vehicle that is registered in your name or that of your spouse, your child, or your parent. Recreational vehicles such as motorhomes will often receive a 10 year TIP and a deposit is not required. You may also obtain a TIP at the Mexican Consulates in Chicago, Illinois; in Austin, Dallas and Houston, Texas; in Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Sacramento, California; in Albuquerque, New Mexico; in Denver, Colorado and in Phoenix, Arizona. If you are having an issue with a TIIP refund: email: permisovehiculos@banjercito.com.mx​​

With a pre-approved Temporary Resident visa from a consulate, when entering Mexico, you obtain a FMM and a TIP.

Each is good for 30 days. Within those 30 days of entering Mexico, you must start your visa process at your local Immigration office.

Once TR visa is issued, please go to Aduana for your TIP. If you do not start your visa process within 30 days, it will mean you must start over at a consulate and you and your vehicle are illegal.

If you process your temporary resident visa and do not go to Aduana, your car is legal but you have lost your deposit. Aduana, is usually found at a large airport.

For those in Puerto Vallarta and Nayarit the location is the Puerto Vallarta airport.

For those in San Miguel de Allende please go to the Queretaro airport.

You do the same when renewing a Temporary Resident visa. Your TIP will be extended for the duration of your visa so both have same expiration date. If you need assistance with extending your car permit and protecting your deposit, ask us for a referral.

If you entered Mexico with a pre-approved Permanent Resident visa, you will be issued a 30-day TIP. Your vehicle must be out of Mexico within 30 days. After that time, your car is illegal; your insurance is not in effect and you risk having your car confiscated.

Vehicles with a salvaged title are normally not allowed a Temporary Import Permit. Nor may a salvaged vehicle be nationalized. And, while you may get away with it, in the event of an accident your insurance may be void. No insurance may lead to jail. In addition, if caught in a road check your vehicle may be confiscated and a large fine. Also, Aduana often checks CarFax, and if your vehicle has had structural damage you may be denied a TIP.

Also, TIP (vehicle permit) may be restricted to vehicles with a load capacity greater than 7716 pounds.