Driving License in Mexico for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Mexico with a foreign license?
Yes, for Foreign license generally accepted for tourists. No strict deadline for residents.. After that, you must convert to a Mexico license. The official test is only in Spanish, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Mexico Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | SCT (Secretaría de Comunicaciones y Transportes) |
| Official Test Language | Spanish |
| Grace Period | Foreign license generally accepted for tourists. No strict deadline for residents. |
| Theory Test Required | Not for exchange |
| Practical Test Required | Not for exchange |
| Medical Exam | Not required |
| Total Cost | MXN 500-2,000 (~$25-100 USD) in most states |
| Processing Time | 1 day to 2 weeks depending on state |
Official test only in Spanish?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
🇲🇽 Practice Mexico Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
No special exemptions. Process depends entirely on the state.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
Process varies by state. Many states accept foreign license with just a fee.
🌍 Other Non-EU Citizens
Process varies by state. Some states require no test at all.
🎓 Students
Can often obtain local license with student visa and foreign license.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
No formal exchange system - each state sets own rules, Many states simply issue a new license with valid foreign license
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
Not applicable - no national exchange framework
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Visa or residency permit (FM2/FM3 or temporary/permanent residency)
- ✓Proof of address (comprobante de domicilio)
- ✓Valid foreign license
- ✓CURP (if available)
- ✓Passport photos
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | MXN 500-2,000 (~$25-100 USD) varies by state |
| Medical Exam | MXN 200-500 (~$10-25 USD) where required |
| Translation | Generally not required |
| Total Estimated | MXN 500-2,000 (~$25-100 USD) in most states |
Tips for Expats in Mexico
- 💡No federal driver's license - each of 32 states has own rules
- 💡Some states (CDMX, Jalisco) require almost no testing - just documents and fee
- 💡Process can be extremely quick - sometimes same day
- 💡Test language and requirements vary entirely by state
- 💡Mexico City (CDMX) is one of the easiest places in the world to get a license
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Mexican driver's license?
Is there a driving test in Mexico?
Which state has the easiest process?
Can I take any required test in English?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Mexico driving test in English.