Driving from Baja California to Los Cabos is an adventure in itself, filled with memories of friends and family, as well as new experiences, all accompanied by the beautiful views along the way.
At LIFESTYLE, we consider every detail so that your experience is flawless. We answer one of the most asked questions by those who wish their Los Cabos adventure were longer, more authentic, and involved driving their own car.
So, let’s get started.
Driving Your Car to Los Cabos? A Quick Note from Our Team.
Many of our clients have been asking whether they—or someone they know—can drive their own vehicle to Los Cabos, particularly for longer stays or seasonal visits.
The short answer is yes, as long as the proper steps are taken in advance. Entering mainland Mexico requires the correct immigration status and, when applicable, a Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP) for foreign-plated vehicles. This permit allows you to legally bring your vehicle into Mexico for a limited period and must be arranged before or at the border, depending on your route. Requirements can vary based on vehicle type, length of stay, and entry location, so planning is essential. While driving can be an option, many visitors still prefer Private Transportation in Cabo San Lucas for convenience, local expertise, and stress-free travel during their stay.
To make things easy, our team has prepared a clear, step-by-step checklist with official government links, so you can focus on enjoying the journey and arriving stress-free.
Complete Driving Checklist:
Driving Your Car from the U.S. to Los Cabos.
What You Need to Know to Do It the Right Way.
Driving your own vehicle to Los Cabos can be a great experience, but it’s important to complete the proper legal steps before entering mainland Mexico.
Immigration Requirement (Person):
All U.S. citizens must enter Mexico with a valid Tourist Permit (FMM – Forma Migratoria Múltiple).
• Valid for up to 180 days.
• Required for all foreign visitors.
• Can be obtained online (RECOMMENDED) or at the border.
Official site: https://www.inm.gob.mx/fmme/publico/en/solicitud.htm l
Vehicle Requirement – Temporary Import Permit (TIP).
To drive beyond Baja California Norte and reach Los Cabos, your vehicle must have a Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP).
• Baja California Sur is not a free zone.
• The TIP is mandatory for Los Cabos.
• Issued by Banjercito, the Mexican government bank.
Official TIP site: https://www.banjercito.com.mx/registroVehiculos/
Where to Get the TIP
Recommended: Apply online up to 60 days before travel
Alternative: Obtain it at a Banjercito module at the border before entering mainland Mexico.
Documents Required
- Valid passport
- Tourist Permit (FMM)
- Vehicle title in the driver’s name
- Valid driver’s license
- Credit card
Refundable Vehicle Deposit
The deposit amount depends on the model year of the vehicle:
• $200 USD – 2007 or older
• $300 USD – 2008–2010
• $400 USD – 2011 or newer
The deposit is refunded automatically when the permit is properly canceled upon exit.
Permit Duration & Rules
• Valid for the same period as your FMM (up to 180 days).
• Vehicle may not be sold, loaned, or left in Mexico.
Leaving Mexico – Very Important.
The TIP must be canceled at a Banjercito module when exiting Mexico.
Failure to cancel may result in:
• Loss of deposit.
• Vehicle being flagged.
• Issues bringing a vehicle into Mexico in the future.
Quick Checklist:
- Passport.
- Tourist Permit (FMM).
- Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP).
- Deposit paid.
- TIP canceled upon exit.
Driving yourself or arranging for professional transport, booking in advance is a good idea for a seamless experience in Los Cabos. Luxury accommodation in Cabo San Lucas is a great option for those travelers looking for comfort, privacy, and elevated stays. Lifestyle Villas will remain a top choice for these travelers, with their thoughtfully designed villas for extended stays, seasonally, and for relaxed coastal living.