Having a car in Mexico offers you more independence of the public transportation and freedom. It allows easier to access the cenotes. If you haven’t arranged any transportation yet and you need help with booking, click here. Although with some adjustments Mexico is generally not more difficult to drive than other countries, before renting a car in Mexico you need have the following considerations.
General rules and safety
Generally, both Yucatan and Quintana Roo it’s quite safe to drive during day and first hour(s) after the sunset. We don’t recommend driving at nighttime due to more aggressive driving, not always proper illumination available, speedbumps, animals crossing, and police/military roadblocks looking for weapons and contraband. Driving takes place on the right side of the road, and the speed limits are generally marked by signage. In the city the speed limit ranges from 30 km/h till 50 km/h. On the highways it varies from 80 km/h till 120 km/h. In the city there are many roads one-way direction and on the highway U-turns.
Rent
First when renting a car make sure that you bring your driver’s license (mostly there is no international driver’s license requirement). Second you need your passport. The age to rent a car is 21 and some policies demand that the driver is at least 25 years old. Third you will need a (worldwide accepted) credit card.
Insurance
Having a liability insurance is important, so you don’t risk imprisonment (until all damage and fines are paid) when you have an accident. Therefore, adequate coverage is necessary. There are also additional insurances for more coverage of third party as well as personal damage.
Fuel
Fuel is easy to find on the major roads but can become a problem on more remote places. Both Diesel and Petrol can vary from 16 pesos until 23 pesos. Normally the gas is fueled by an employee of the gas station, who expects a small tip. Before returning your rental car, it’s expected that at least the same amount fuel in the tank.
Car trouble
When you’re having car trouble, make sure that you have a phone with you to call in for help. While there are the Green Angels that can help tourist making repairs, it’s rare that they will be there at the exact time your car broke down. With some rental car companies, they can provide you with extra service for a surcharge.
Be aware!
Make sure you do your research when renting a car. There are some unreliable car rental companies.
Often there can be problems with booking online. While the rates look awesome, it’s usually to good to be true and when confirmed to get the car you can be confronted with some hidden costs. Another issue that is common with cheaper rates is a compulsory expensive insurance or details written in the fine letters. Finally, it’s always a good idea to take some pictures of the car before renting, to avoid liability for pre-existing damage (or better yet through a car inspection form). If you need help to get a reliable car, please click here.