How to Convert a Foreign Driving License to a Mexican One (for Residents and Dual Citizens)

If you're a resident or dual citizen in Mexico, converting your foreign driving license to a Mexican license is essential for driving within the country's legal framework.

This article outlines the step-by-step process, highlighting key requirements for Mexican driver’s license conversion and tips on how to get a perfect driving license photo.

Table of contents

• Driving in Mexico with a foreign license: rules and restrictions
• Who can convert a foreign driving license in Mexico
• Which foreign licenses are eligible for direct exchange
• Step-by-step guide to convert a foreign license in Mexico
• List of required documentation
• Mexican driving license photo requirements
• Get a driving license photo online!
• Driving License Photo App
• Fees to exchange a driving license in Mexico

Driving in Mexico with a foreign license: rules and restrictions

Can I drive in Mexico with a US license? — Yes, in most cases, tourists can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license in Mexico, including those issued in the U.S. There's typically no immediate need for an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your visit is short. However, switching your foreign license to a Mexican driving permit is strongly advised, especially if:

• Your license is not written in Spanish or English.
• You plan to rent a car from a major company, as some rental agencies might still request an IDP even if your license is in English.
• You might encounter checkpoints or traffic stops.
• You intend to travel beyond popular tourist spots.

Vehicle importation:

If you plan to drive your own car with foreign plates into areas of Mexico beyond the Free Zone (which includes all of Baja California and parts of Sonora), you need a Temporary Import Permit (TIP). The TIP is valid for six months for regular vehicles and ten years for motorhomes or vans. A refundable deposit is mandatory. If you stay within the Free Zone, no TIP is required.

Local driving rules and regulations

• Mexico drives on the right side of the road.
• Highway speed limits are typically 110 km/h, while urban areas are usually 50 km/h. Always follow posted speed limits to avoid fines.
• In Mexico City and the State of Mexico, the “Hoy No Circula” program limits vehicle use based on license plate numbers and emission stickers. Foreign-plated vehicles must adhere to these rules and may require a "Passe Turistico" (tourist pass) for up to 14 days of exemption.
• Vehicles without emission stickers are generally restricted from 5:00-11:00 a.m. on weekdays and all day on Saturdays in affected regions.
• U.S. or any foreign car insurance doesn’t apply in Mexico. You need to buy Mexican auto insurance with at least third-party liability coverage for driving in the country.

Requirements for Mexican residents, nationals, and dual citizens

• Mexican driver’s license for residents: Permanent residents can only drive foreign-plated vehicles within the Free Zone unless they're closely related to or accompanied by the vehicle’s owner.
• Mexican driver’s license for temporary residents: Tourists and temporary residents can drive foreign-plated vehicles throughout Mexico with a valid license.
• Mexican nationals can drive a foreign-plated vehicle only if accompanied by the owner. The requirements for getting a Mexican driver’s license for dual citizens are essentially the same as for any Mexican citizen.
• The minimum age for independent driving is 18, though most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 with prior experience.

Who can convert a foreign driving license in Mexico

If you're a foreigner living legally in Mexico, either temporarily or permanently, you can change your foreign driving license to a Mexican one. To do this, you need to go through the Traffic Department, Mobility Secretariat, or local road authority in the state where you live. Keep in mind that each state has its own rules and process for this.

If you’re just visiting Mexico as a tourist or are not a resident, you can’t convert your license. You’ll need to drive using your valid foreign license instead.

Which foreign licenses are eligible for direct exchange

Mexico has agreements with certain countries, which means if you're from one of these places, you can switch your foreign license for a Mexican one more easily, often without needing to take any tests. The main countries include:

• The United States
• Canada
• Some EU countries (which specific countries depend on the state in Mexico, so check with your local licensing office).

Even if your country is on this list, you might still have to take a written or driving test, depending on where you are in Mexico.

Step-by-step guide to convert a foreign license in Mexico

To exchange your foreign driver’s license in Mexico, follow these instructions:

1. Gather all necessary documents.
2. Visit your local Department of Transport and Roads (known as Secretaría de Transporte y Vialidad) or your state’s Directorate General of Public Security and State Roads (Dirección General de Seguridad Pública y Vialidad). Sometimes, these offices are located near or within a police station.
3. Complete the application forms provided at the office. You might also need to sign a “Carta Responsiva,” which confirms the accuracy of your details and your commitment to follow traffic regulations.
4. Submit your documents and filled-out forms to the official in charge.
5. Take any required tests:
   • Some regions might ask for a written or practical driving test, while others may not.
   • If needed, theory tests may be available in English in certain states.
6. Pay the applicable fee.
7. After your application is processed, you’ll receive your Mexican driver’s license, which is valid for the length of time you choose, as long as it doesn't exceed your residency permit’s validity.

List of required documentation

The exact Mexican driving license application documents required can vary by state, but typically you’ll need:

• Your valid foreign driver’s license.
• Proof of identity, such as your passport.
• A valid residency card (temporary or permanent).
• Proof of address in Mexico, like a recent utility bill or bank statement that is less than three months old.
• CURP (Unique Population Registry Code).
• Passport-sized photos (confirm if needed in your specific state).
• Proof of payment for the fee.

Mexican driving license photo requirements

When applying for your Mexican driving license, your photograph must meet certain criteria:

• The photo must be recent, generally taken within the last six months.
• The photo size must be 35 mm wide x 45 mm high (3.5 × 4.5 cm).
• The resolution must be 600 dpi for digital submissions.
• The top of your hair should measure up to 34.5 mm from the bottom, with a 4.5 mm space above the photo's top edge.
• The background must be solid white or light gray without any shadows, patterns, or objects.
• The photo must be in color and clear, with no editing or filters.
• Keep a neutral expression, mouth closed, and eyes open; your face should be centered, looking directly at the camera.
• Glasses are permitted if they are not tinted and there is no glare; eyes should be clearly visible.
• Head coverings are allowed only for religious purposes; your face must be fully visible.
• Wear normal everyday clothes, avoid uniforms or outfits that blend into the background.

Here is an example:

Get a driving license photo online!

For a hassle-free way to obtain a compliant driving license photo, try online professional tools. Visafoto.com is an excellent option, offering instant photo conversion to meet all official standards. Since 2013, Visafoto has been perfecting document photo processing and is knowledgeable about the requirements for passports, visas, driving licenses, and more globally.

Wondering how to begin? Simply snap a photo of yourself in natural daylight and upload it to the tool below. Don’t worry about the format, background, or size — we'll sort it out for you!

Example of a picture you can provide:

You'll get both a digital version for online submissions and a print-ready version. If you're not happy with the results, we offer a free replacement. Plus, if the photo isn't accepted by officials, we guarantee a full refund.

Driving License Photo App

If you need a quick and easy way to get a driving license photo, look no further than the 7ID App from Visafoto.com. This user-friendly app allows you to create ID, passport, and visa photos right from your smartphone. It’s available for both iPhone and Android users, making it convenient for everyone.

To use 7ID, simply upload your photo, choose the type of document and country, and the app will automatically adjust your picture to adhere to official standards. This includes ensuring the correct size, format, background color, and proper face and eye positioning.

You'll receive a digital file and a print template that fits standard paper sizes such as 4×6, A4, A5, or B5. For any inquiries or support, our technical team is ready to assist you.

Fees to exchange a driving license in Mexico

The cost to exchange a driving license in Mexico varies by state and the duration of the license (generally between 2 and 5 years). There's no unified national pricing, as each federal region sets its own Mexican driver’s license fees. Expect to pay between approximately MXN 600 and 2100 (about USD 32 and 111), depending on the state and license duration. Most standard license exchanges in 2025 will range from MXN 600 to 1000 (from USD 32 and 53). Additional charges for medical exams or testing might also apply.