Every year, many California families drive to Mexico for the holidays, to visit relatives, or for a weekend in Tijuana, Rosarito, or Ensenada. Before you pack the car, there is one question to answer: Is your car insured in Mexico?
For most California drivers, the answer is no, not in the way Mexican authorities require.
Your California policy generally isn't recognized in Mexico
Under California Insurance Code § 11580.6, if a California auto liability policy says it extends coverage to accidents in Mexico, it must include this warning:
"Unless you have automobile or aircraft insurance written by a Mexican insurance company, you may spend many hours or days in jail, if you have an accident in Mexico. Insurance coverage should be secured from a company licensed under the laws of Mexico to write such insurance in order to avoid complications and some other penalties possible under the laws of Mexico, including the possible impoundment of your automobile or aircraft."
In other words, even when a U.S. policy offers some limited coverage in Mexico, California requires it to tell you that you should still get insurance from a company licensed in Mexico.
Why this matters so much
In California, an accident is usually handled as an insurance and civil matter. In Mexico, the process can be very different. California's required warning mentions possible jail time and impoundment of your car. A Mexican policy is what shows local authorities that the damages can be paid.
What to buy: a Mexican liability policy
Before you cross, buy a Mexican auto insurance policy from a company licensed under the laws of Mexico. Policies are often available for a single day, a week, or longer. When comparing, ask:
- Liability: What limits are included for injuries and property damage to others?
- Legal assistance and bail bond help: Is it included, and how do you reach it from Mexico?
- Physical damage and theft: Is your own car covered for collision and theft, or only liability?
- Medical payments: Are you and your passengers covered?
- Territory and dates: Does it cover every place you'll drive, for every day of your trip?
- Claims: Is there a phone number for help in English or Spanish, 24 hours a day?
Keep a printed copy of the policy in the car, as well as a digital copy on your phone.
Don't cancel your California policy
Your Mexican policy covers you in Mexico. Your California policy covers you on the drive to the border and when you come back. Keep it active. Canceling can cause a lapse, and the DMV can suspend your registration if it does not receive proof of insurance. See how to avoid a car insurance lapse.
Also call us or your insurance company before your trip to ask:
- Does my policy provide any coverage in Mexico, and under what limits and distance?
- Does my physical damage coverage apply to my car in Mexico?
Every policy is different, so get the answer for yours.
If your car is financed or leased
If your car is financed or leased, read your contract or ask your lender whether you need permission to take the car to Mexico and what coverage they require while it's there.
Quick pre-trip checklist
- Mexican auto insurance policy from a Mexico-licensed insurer, for all travel dates
- Printed and digital copies of your Mexican and California policies
- Valid driver's license and current vehicle registration
- Lender permission, if your car is financed or leased
- Emergency numbers saved, including your Mexican insurer's claims line
Frequently asked questions
Does my California car insurance cover me in Mexico? California law requires any policy that extends coverage to Mexico to warn you to get insurance from a company licensed in Mexico.
What happens if I have an accident in Mexico without Mexican insurance? California's required policy warning mentions possible jail time and impoundment of your car.
Should I cancel my California policy while I'm in Mexico? No. Keep it active for the drive to and from the border, and to avoid a lapse that could lead the DMV to suspend your registration.
Talk with Street Smart
Planning a trip to Mexico? Call or text (714) 736-9048 to review your California policy before you go, or get a California auto insurance quote. We can help in English or Spanish.
Official sources
Educational information: This article is general information, not legal advice. Coverage depends on your policy and your insurance company. Mexican law and entry requirements can change; check official sources before you travel.
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