Car Rental Mexico

Looking for a rental car in Mexico? With the right car rental service, you can explore Mexico with ease and flexibility! Super simple booking process. Check it out now.

Looking to rent a car in Mexico? Great idea! Imagine cruising along stunning coastlines, exploring vibrant cities like Mexico City and Cancún, and visiting world-famous sites such as Chichén Itzá and Tulum, all from the comfort of your own rental car. Touring Mexico by car is one of the most enjoyable and flexible ways to experience everything this spectacular country has to offer. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury drive through the Yucatán Peninsula or a budget-friendly road trip along the Pacific Coast, renting a car in Mexico is simple, fun, and perfect for tourists.

Car Rental Mexico

Best deals car rental Mexico

Flexible rentals

Free cancellations on most bookings

No hidden fees

Know exactly what you’re paying

5 million+ reviews

By real, verified customers

Find your perfect car for Mexico

Find the perfect rental car with ease. Enjoy free cancellations on most bookings, choose from 60,000+ locations worldwide, and get support in 30+ languages. We connect you with the top car rental brands for a seamless travel experience.

compare Car Rental Mexico

Rent a Car in Mexico

Exploring Mexico at your own pace starts with finding the right car rental. Renting a car in Mexico is easy, with a wide range of options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a compact car for navigating city streets, a family-friendly SUV for road trips, or a luxury vehicle for touring in style, Mexico offers plenty of options. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, take spontaneous detours, and discover hidden gems away from the usual tourist spots.

Car Rental Requirements in Mexico

Before you rent a car, make sure you meet the basic requirements. Most car rental companies in Mexico ask for the following:

  • Minimum Age: You must be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur an additional fee.
  • Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license from your home country is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not mandatory.
  • Credit Card: You’ll need a major credit card for the security deposit.
  • Insurance: Basic liability insurance is mandatory in Mexico. Rental companies often include it, but you may consider additional coverage.

Booking a Car Rental in Mexico

Booking your car rental in advance ensures you get the best deals and vehicle availability. Whether you prefer to book online or upon arrival, many platforms offer user-friendly options for comparing car types, prices, and rental companies. It’s a simple process, and you can often choose from add-ons like GPS, child seats, or additional drivers to enhance your road trip experience.

Cheap Rental Cars in Mexico

Traveling on a budget? No problem! Mexico offers plenty of affordable car rental options. Economy cars are perfect for city driving and short trips, giving you both savings and convenience. Look for seasonal deals and promotions from well-known rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Budget for great value rentals.

Premium Rental Cars in Mexico

If you’re looking to tour Mexico in style, there are premium car rental options available. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek sports car, a luxury sedan, or an SUV with all the latest features, premium car rentals give you a smooth and stylish ride. Perfect for special occasions, road trips through stunning landscapes, or business trips.

Driving Tips in Mexico

Driving in Mexico can be an adventure, so here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Drive on the right: Mexico follows the right-hand driving rule.
  • Speed Limits: The speed limit is typically 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas, 80-100 km/h (50-62 mph) on open roads, and up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on highways.
  • Tolls: Many highways (cuotas) are toll roads, which are well-maintained and safer. Payment is usually in Mexican pesos.
  • Gas Stations: Known as “Gasolineras,” they are full-service. It’s customary to tip the attendant a small amount.
  • Parking: Parking can be limited in cities. Use secure parking lots when available.
  • Road Conditions: Be cautious of speed bumps (topes) and potholes, especially on rural roads.

Highlights to Visit in Mexico by Car

With your rental car, you’ll have access to some of Mexico’s top highlights:

  • Yucatán Peninsula: Explore ancient Mayan ruins like Chichén Itzá, Tulum, and Uxmal.
  • Cancún to Playa del Carmen: Drive along the beautiful Riviera Maya coastline.
  • Baja California: Experience the scenic landscapes from Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas.
  • Colonial Cities: Visit historic cities like San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, and Querétaro.
  • Copper Canyon: Explore the stunning canyons in the state of Chihuahua.
  • Pacific Coast: Enjoy beach towns like Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco.
  • Puebla and Oaxaca: Discover rich culture, cuisine, and architecture.

Rent a Car at the Airport in Mexico

Renting a car at the airport is one of the easiest ways to start your journey in Mexico. Major airports with car rental services include:

  • Mexico City International Airport (MEX)
  • Cancún International Airport (CUN)
  • Guadalajara International Airport (GDL)
  • Los Cabos International Airport (SJD)
  • Monterrey International Airport (MTY)
  • Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR)

These airports have major car rental companies, making it convenient to pick up your vehicle right after you land.

Rent a Car Near Me

If you’re staying in one of the major cities, there are plenty of car rental agencies nearby. The top cities for car rentals in Mexico include:

  • Mexico City
  • Cancún
  • Guadalajara
  • Monterrey
  • Playa del Carmen
  • Tijuana
  • Puerto Vallarta

Simply search for car rental services in your city, and you’ll find several options.

Local Tips when Renting a Car in Mexico

Renting a car in Mexico gives you the freedom to venture beyond the typical tourist spots and discover hidden gems that locals love. From picturesque countryside to historic villages, here are some insider tips and must-visit locations off the beaten path:

1. Explore the Ruta Puuc

Drive along the Ruta Puuc in the Yucatán to visit lesser-known Mayan sites like Labná, Kabah, and Sayil.

2. Visit the Magic Towns (Pueblos Mágicos)

Discover charming towns designated as Pueblos Mágicos, such as Taxco, Valle de Bravo, and Bernal, known for their cultural richness and natural beauty.

3. Drive the Tequila Route

In Jalisco, explore the birthplace of tequila by visiting distilleries in towns like Tequila and Amatitán.

4. Explore Chiapas

Experience the natural beauty of Sumidero Canyon, visit the indigenous town of San Cristóbal de las Casas, and explore ancient ruins like Palenque.

5. Visit the Huasteca Potosina

In San Luis Potosí, explore waterfalls, rivers, and natural pools. Don’t miss the surrealistic garden of Las Pozas in Xilitla.

6. Drive Through the Sierra Gorda

Explore the biosphere reserve in Querétaro, with stunning landscapes, missions, and eco-tourism activities.

7. Discover the Pacific Coast Highway

Drive from Puerto Vallarta to Manzanillo, stopping at beaches like Barra de Navidad and Careyes.

8. Experience Copper Canyon

Drive through the region to experience one of the most spectacular canyon systems in the world. Consider combining with a train ride on the Chepe Express.

9. Visit the Monarch Butterfly Reserves

Between November and March, drive to reserves in Michoacán and the State of Mexico to witness the monarch butterfly migration.

10. Explore the Gulf Coast

Visit historic cities like Veracruz and Campeche, and enjoy the unique blend of cultures.

Pro Tip for Driving in Mexico

Always be aware of local traffic laws and customs. It’s advisable to drive during daylight hours, especially in rural areas. Keep your fuel tank topped up, as gas stations can be sparse in remote regions. Also, consider renting a GPS or ensuring your navigation apps are updated, as road signage may not always be clear.

By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll experience a side of Mexico that many tourists miss. Rent a car, follow the locals’ advice, and enjoy discovering the hidden treasures of this spectacular country!

1. Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Mexico?

While not mandatory, it’s recommended to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid driver’s license from your home country.

2. What’s the minimum age for renting a car in Mexico?

The minimum age is typically 21, but some companies may rent to drivers as young as 18. Drivers under 25 may incur additional fees.

3. Can I rent a car with a debit card?

Most rental agencies require a credit card for deposits and payment, but some may accept debit cards with certain conditions.

4. Is it expensive to rent a car in Mexico?

Rental prices vary depending on the season, vehicle type, and rental duration. You can find both budget and premium options to suit your needs.

5. Can I drive into other countries with my rental car?

Driving into the U.S. or other countries is generally not permitted with rental cars from Mexico. Always check with the rental company for their policies.

6. Is insurance included with the rental car?

Basic liability insurance is typically included, but additional coverage is highly recommended due to liability laws in Mexico.

7. Do I need to pay for parking in Mexican cities?

Yes, parking fees are common in city centers. Use official parking lots or garages, and avoid parking in restricted areas to prevent fines or towing.

8. Can I rent an automatic car in Mexico?

Yes, automatic cars are available, but manual transmissions are more common. It’s advisable to book in advance if you require an automatic vehicle.

9. Are there toll roads in Mexico?

Yes, many major highways are toll roads (cuotas). They are usually in better condition and have less traffic than free roads (libres).

10. Can I cancel my car rental reservation?

Most car rental companies allow free cancellations with proper notice, but always check the specific terms when booking.