Question 1

Do I need an international driver’s license to rent a car in Mexico?

Accepted Answer

No, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required if you have a valid license from the U.S., Canada, or most countries. Rental companies in Mexico will accept a driver’s license in English or Spanish (and even other languages, as long as it uses Roman letters). For example, an American driver’s license is perfectly fine at the counter. That said, if your license is in a non-Roman alphabet (say, Japanese or Arabic), it’s wise to carry an IDP for translation. Always bring your passport as an additional ID when renting. But in general, you do not need an international license just to rent or drive in Mexico your home country license will suffice.

Question 2

How old do I have to be to rent a car at MEX Airport?

Accepted Answer

The typical minimum age is 21 to rent a car in Mexico. Drivers aged 18-20 might find a few local agencies willing to rent to them, but most major companies set the bar at 21. Also, if you’re under 25, be prepared for a “young driver fee.” It’s usually an extra ~$10 USD per day (plus tax) for drivers 21-24. This fee and age policy can vary by company for example, a company might rent to 18-year-olds but charge a higher fee (Mexico’s legal minimum rental age is 18). When booking through Airport Van Rental, we’ll ask for your age and factor in any young driver surcharge in your quote so you know up front. If you’re 25 or older, congrats you qualify for standard rates with no extra fees in almost all cases.

Question 3

Is Mexican insurance required to rent a car, and do I need to buy it?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mexico requires all drivers to have liability insurance for injuries or damage to others. Rental cars must include at least the minimum liability coverage by law either built into the rate or as a mandatory fee at the counter. This is not optional. Our booking platform usually shows this basic coverage (often labeled “PLI” or “Third-Party Liability”) included. Beyond that, you’ll be offered CDW/LDW (Collision Damage Waiver) for the car itself and other protections. While CDW is technically optional, keep in mind if you decline it, the rental company will hold a very large deposit (often $2,000–$2,500 USD) on your card. Many travelers opt for at least CDW for peace of mind or rely on a credit card that covers collision but even then, you still need to accept or have liability coverage. In summary: liability insurance is mandatory (don’t drive off without verifying you have it), and additional coverages are up to you. Check your personal auto or credit card coverage before the trip to avoid buying redundant insurance.

Question 4

Where are the car rental counters at Mexico City Airport? How do I pick up my car?

Accepted Answer

Mexico City International Airport has rental car desks in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Major brands like Hertz, Avis, Budget, etc., have kiosks in the Arrivals halls (after baggage claim) just follow the signs for “Car Rental” (or “Renta de Autos”). The process typically works like this: you check in at the counter, then an agent will either escort you or shuttle you to the nearby lot to get your vehicle. At Terminal 1, many rental parking lots are just across the access road (a short walk or quick van ride). At Terminal 2, some companies have cars on-site in the parking structure, while others might shuttle you to a lot a few minutes away. Tip: Use the courtesy phones at the counter or in the arrivals area if you don’t immediately see your company’s desk some smaller operators request you call to send a shuttle. Overall, MEX is a huge airport, but the rental pickup is straightforward plan on about 15-20 minutes from counter paperwork to driving out, on average. And when returning, follow the “Car Rental Return” signs (likely routing you to the same area you picked up).

Question 5

Is it better to rent a car or use Uber/taxis in Mexico City?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your plans. If you’re mostly sticking to one area (say, the Centro and a couple day tours) and are nervous about driving in city traffic, you can rely on Uber/taxis and public transit. Rideshares are plentiful in Mexico City and inexpensive for short hops. However, if you want to explore multiple neighborhoods and especially if you plan any out-of-town trips (Teotihuacán, Puebla, etc.), renting a car becomes very worthwhile. Having a car means no waiting for rides, no surge pricing, and you can carry luggage, shopping bags, or stroller gear easily. For example, doing a self-drive day trip to Puebla and Cholula is far easier by car than juggling buses or paying a steep private driver fee. Also, for traveling at odd hours (early flights, late-night dinners in distant areas), a car gives peace of mind and safety you’re in control of your transport. Keep in mind the traffic, though: schedule around rush hour when you can. Some travelers actually do a hybrid approach use Uber within the congested core of the city, but rent a car for the specific days they’re doing outskirts and day trips. That’s a valid strategy if you’re comfortable with it. In summary: for maximizing sightseeing beyond the city center and for families/groups, a rental car usually wins out; if your itinerary is very tight within the core, you could manage with Uber and the metro. It really comes down to flexibility vs. simplicity.

Question 6

Are there toll roads around Mexico City and how do I pay for them?

Accepted Answer

Yes several major highways out of Mexico City are toll roads (“carreteras de cuota”). If you’re driving to destinations like Querétaro, Acapulco, Puebla, or Toluca, you’ll likely use a toll road at least part of the way. Around the city, the second level of the Periférico ring road and the Viaducto Elevado to Puebla are also toll routes. You typically pay tolls in cash (Mexican pesos) at booths along the highway. Some toll booths closer to the capital even take credit cards, but don’t count on it cash is king, so have some 50s and 100s peso notes handy. The toll amount is displayed before you enter the lane; it can range from small (~MX$30) to hefty (MX$300+) if it’s a long stretch. If your rental car has an electronic tag (ask the agency), you can zip through the express lanes and the toll will be billed to you later (often with a small service fee). Otherwise, stick to lanes marked “Manual/Cash”. One thing to note: the Toluca cuota and Puebla cuota have service plazas with gas and restrooms safe spots to take a break. And if you prefer to avoid tolls, you can take “libre” roads, but they’ll be slower and sometimes less safe (more traffic or speed bumps). We generally recommend using toll roads for efficiency and safety the cost is worth the time saved, especially on long drives.

Question 7

Does Mexico City have any special driving restrictions I should know about (e.g. “Hoy No Circula”)?

Accepted Answer

Hoy No Circula is the big one. As mentioned earlier, it’s an environmental program that restricts vehicles from driving one weekday based on the last digit of their license plate (and additional rules on some Saturdays). If you were a resident, this would definitely apply to you. As a tourist in a rental car, here’s what you need to know: If the rental car has local Mexico City or State of Mexico plates, it technically falls under Hoy No Circula rules unless it’s registered as a tourist or has an exemption. Many rental companies obtain a temporary Pase Turístico (tourist pass) for out-of-state plates, which allows you to drive any day. It’s worth asking your rental agent about this. Generally, if you’re renting for a short period, enforcement is lenient on obvious tourist vehicles, but it’s wise to clarify. The good news: hybrid or electric rental cars (if you happen to rent one) are exempt from Hoy No Circula altogether. Also, these restrictions only apply in the Mexico City metro area once you’re outside the zones (for instance, driving to other states), you’re not affected. Bottom line: Don’t be too worried just inquire at pickup if the car is exempt. If not and you happen to be driving on a restricted day, police might stop you showing your rental agreement and tourist status can sometimes get a pass, but it’s better to avoid the scenario. Plan around it or swap cars if needed (some agencies might give you a plate that’s clear for your needed days).

Question 8

How much is the security deposit/hold for a rental car in Mexico?

Accepted Answer

It varies by company and what insurance you take. If you accept full insurance coverage, the deposit (hold on your credit card) might be relatively low, around $200–$500 USD (or equivalent in MXN). This is basically to cover fuel or minor incidentals. However, if you decline the rental company’s CDW insurance, be prepared for a much larger hold. It’s not uncommon to see holds of $2,000–$2,500 USD (around MX$40,000–50,000) in that case. This is because without their CDW, they want to ensure they can charge for the full value of the car in worst-case scenario. These funds aren’t actually charged to your card, but they will reduce your available credit until the car is returned safely. Every company’s policy is a bit different: some might pre-authorize a set amount regardless of insurance status, while others tier it. We at Airport Van Rental display the expected deposit rules on our checkout info. It’s always a good idea to use a major credit card (not a debit card, if possible) for the rental hold banks process refunds to credit faster, whereas debit card holds can take longer to release. And make sure you have enough credit limit to absorb the hold. When you return the car in good shape, the hold is released (it can take a few business days to see it). So in short: expect a few hundred dollars hold with full insurance, or a couple thousand without it pays to plan accordingly.

Mexico City International Airport (MEX) Van & Car Rental | Airport Van Rental

Why rent a car at Mexico City International Airport