Mexico Auto Insurance: Arizona Purchase?

If you're planning a trip to Mexico and intend to drive, it's important to know that your US car insurance won't cover you. Mexican law requires all vehicles to have car insurance from a Mexico-based carrier, and not having valid insurance can lead to fines, confiscation of your vehicle, and even jail time. So, before you cross the border, make sure you purchase Mexican auto insurance, which you can do online or through insurance agencies in Southern California, Arizona, and Texas. This insurance will cover liability, physical damage, medical payments, legal assistance, and roadside assistance, among other things.

Why is Mexico auto insurance needed in Arizona?

Arizona residents driving to Mexico will need Mexico auto insurance, as US car insurance policies are invalid in Mexico. Mexican law requires all vehicles to have car insurance from a Mexico-based carrier. This applies to both US-plated and rental vehicles.

If you get into an accident in Mexico without the proper insurance, you may be arrested and your car may be impounded until the matter is settled. This could take hours, days, or even weeks, and you may be detained in jail until any injured parties are released from the hospital or any property damages are paid.

Even if you are not involved in an accident, if you are pulled over by the police or stopped at a checkpoint without the correct insurance, you can be fined.

It is therefore highly recommended that you purchase Mexico auto insurance before driving to Mexico. You can buy a separate Mexican auto insurance policy from a Mexican insurance company or a US company that works with Mexican insurers.

When purchasing Mexico auto insurance, you will need to provide the following information:

• Your full name, address, and date of birth
• Basic details about the vehicle, including the year, make, model, license plate number, VIN number, driver’s license number, and leasing information
• Your planned border crossing date and the purpose of your visit (business or pleasure)
• Information about any additional drivers
• Information about anything you will be towing, such as a boat

It is also a good idea to keep at least two copies of your Mexican car insurance documents, including your policy, claims instructions, and roadside assistance instructions. Keep one copy in your car and another copy in a secure place, such as a hotel safe.

What are the consequences of not having Mexico auto insurance in Arizona?

It is possible to purchase Mexico auto insurance in Arizona, and it is highly recommended that you do so if you plan on driving in Mexico. This is because American auto insurance policies are not recognised in Mexico, so you will not be able to use your US insurance to cover any damages if you get into an accident. Mexican authorities may even arrest you and impound your car until the matter is settled.

While it is not a criminal offence, driving without insurance in Arizona can result in some pretty severe penalties. Here are the consequences of not having Mexico auto insurance in Arizona:

First Offence

• Fine of $500
• Driver's license, registration, and plates suspended for three months
• SR-22 certificate may be required

Second Offence

• Fine of $750
• Driver's license, registration, and plates suspended for six months
• SR-22 certificate may be required

Third Offence

• Fine of $1,000
• Driver's license, registration, and plates suspended for one year
• SR-22 certificate required

Additional Consequences

• If you get into an accident without insurance, the other driver's insurance company can sue you for damages.
• Your driving privileges will be suspended until you satisfy the judgment or enter into an instalment payment plan.
• Higher insurance premiums.

Where can I buy Mexico auto insurance in Arizona?

If you're planning a road trip to Mexico, it's important to know that you'll need specialist car insurance. US car insurance is invalid in Mexico, so you'll need to purchase a separate Mexican auto insurance policy. The good news is that you can do this in Arizona, either online or in person.

Where to Buy Mexico Auto Insurance in Arizona

You can buy Mexico auto insurance online through a trusted car insurance company. Large insurers like AAA, Progressive, and Geico have partnerships with Mexican insurance specialists. For example, Progressive offers Mexico auto insurance through MexPro. You can also buy directly from Mexican insurance specialists like MexPro and AmigoMex Insurance.

If you'd prefer to buy in person, you can visit reputable insurance agencies in Arizona. AmigoMex Insurance has offices in Arizona and offers Mexican auto insurance.

What You Need to Buy Mexico Auto Insurance

To buy a Mexican auto insurance policy, you'll need to provide the following information:

• Your full name, address, and date of birth
• Details about your vehicle, including the year, make, model, license plate number, and VIN number
• Your driver's license number and leasing information
• Whether you'll be towing anything, such as a boat
• Your planned border crossing date and the purpose of your trip
• Details of any additional drivers

Tips for Driving in Mexico

Driving in Mexico comes with some unique challenges. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Keep your insurance documentation with you at all times. It's a good idea to have at least two copies: one in your car and one in a secure location, such as a hotel safe.
• Get a Mexican tourist card (FMM) before your trip. You can obtain this online or at the border.
• If you're travelling beyond the Mexico Free or Border Zone, you'll need a Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP).
• Check travel advisories and sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for safety updates and emergency assistance.

What are the requirements for buying Mexico auto insurance in Arizona?

Yes, you can purchase Mexico auto insurance in Arizona. This insurance is a separate policy from your US car insurance and is required by law if you plan to drive in Mexico. Here are the requirements for buying Mexico auto insurance in Arizona:

Requirements for Buying Mexico Auto Insurance in Arizona:

• Dates of Travel: You will need to provide the dates you plan to travel in Mexico. The length of your stay will determine the type of policy you need. Some companies offer policies for trips ranging from one day to one year.
• Location of Travel in Mexico: The minimum required auto insurance liability limits in Mexico vary by state. Knowing where you will be travelling will help determine the appropriate coverage for your trip.
• US Car Insurance Policy Number: You will need to provide your US car insurance policy number when purchasing Mexican auto insurance. This can be found on your proof of insurance or policy documents.
• Driver's License: A driver's license is required when purchasing Mexican auto insurance. If the driver is under 21, there may be additional fees or requirements.
• Vehicle Information: Details about the vehicle you will be driving in Mexico are necessary, including the year, make, model, vehicle identification number, license plate number, and leasing information. If you are towing anything, such as a boat or trailer, this information will also be needed.
• Purpose of Visit: The insurance company will ask about the purpose of your trip to Mexico, such as business or pleasure.
• Additional Drivers: Information about any additional drivers of the vehicle may also be required.

It is important to note that Mexican auto insurance can be purchased online or through reputable insurance agencies in Arizona. It is recommended to compare quotes from different companies to find the best price and coverage options. Additionally, it is suggested to purchase Mexican auto insurance before crossing the border to avoid higher costs and unnecessary complications.

What does Mexico auto insurance cover?

When driving in Mexico, it is a legal requirement to have Mexican auto insurance. This is because US car insurance policies are not recognised in Mexico. Therefore, if you are involved in an accident, you will be unable to use your US car insurance to cover any damages.

There are several types of Mexican auto insurance coverage available, including:

• Liability-only insurance — This is the minimum level of coverage required by Mexican law. It covers bodily injuries and property damage to others if you cause a car accident. It is important to note that liability insurance does not cover damage to your own vehicle or injuries to yourself and your passengers.
• Full-coverage insurance — This includes liability insurance, as well as additional coverage options such as physical damage coverage, medical payments, legal assistance, and roadside assistance. Physical damage coverage includes protection for your vehicle in the event of theft, vandalism, fire, flood, hail, and falling objects. Medical payments cover expenses for you and your passengers if you are injured in an accident. Legal assistance can help with legal expenses such as attorney fees, court costs, and bail bonds. Roadside assistance covers services such as towing, jump-starting a battery, locksmith services, and flat tire changes.
• Limited Mexico coverage — Some US insurance companies offer limited Mexico coverage as part of their policies or as an endorsement. This typically extends your existing US coverage to trips to Mexico within a certain distance of the border (usually 75 miles or less). However, it is important to note that this limited coverage does not include liability insurance, which must be purchased separately from a licensed Mexican insurance company.

When purchasing Mexican auto insurance, it is important to consider your specific needs and choose a policy that provides the necessary coverage for your trip. Additionally, it is recommended to compare quotes from multiple companies to find the best price and coverage options.

Frequently asked questions