Ultimate Safety Guide to Motorcycling in Mexico 2024
I had not considered researching a safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico when planning our adventure, that is, until I crossed over the Mexican border on my trusty blue iron steed.
There is something exhilarating about riding a motorcycle across the border of a new country.
It might be the intriguing new smells, glimpsing street signs in a new language, the uniquely shaped and colored buildings, and the sounds of people conversing, yelling, and laughing.
Maybe it’s the chickens waddling and fluttering out of your way. Wait- why are chickens on this road, and where did they come from!?
When we crossed that first border, my head was in the clouds, enjoying the beautiful, exciting experiences of a different country.
Then, almost immediately, I was smacked back into reality with a sudden realization:
I didn’t understand the rules of the road.
Safety Guide to Motorcycling in Mexico
Luckily, after riding an approximate 4,000+ miles through Mexico (including completing an Iron Butt Saddlesore– riding 1,000 miles in less than 24 hours on tiny 125cc motorcycles!)
We all learned our lessons the hard way, so you don’t have to.
As a result, I have put together the ultimate safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico. So read on, my friends!
Let’s get started.
Driving in Mexico for Tourists in 2024
The process is not as complicated as it may seem for tourists who want to drive in Mexico. It is as easy as navigating the traffic laws of Mexico.
You may feel nervous going around a foreign country, but there is no need. Remember that it is home to thousands of foreign drivers.
The roads in this country are well maintained, and you can always enjoy a safe drive in this beautiful country.
Mexico is home to some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes and is also one of the best countries that allow tourists to ride through on motorcycles.
The roads are lengthy, and the country is made of deep canyons, steep mountains, and miles of desert and beach resorts.
Road safety in Mexico is not something you should worry about. It is more important to focus on making yourself a safer rider.
Remember that Mexico is home to hundreds of thousands of bikers, and all observe safe road practices.
This safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico explains essential traffic rules and how to ride in this amazing country.
This guide will help you prepare for the road ahead and give you up-to-date information so you can stay safe and have a blast during your travels.
Is It Safe To Ride a Motorcycle through Mexico?
I am writing this post to provide you with a safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico. But is it even SAFE to drive through Mexico? Is it safe for tourists to drive in Mexico?
The answer is a resounding yes. It is safe to drive in Mexico.
Mexico gets a bad rap in the media all of the time. When we only see bad news, we tend to start to think of a place as dangerous and “scary.”
However, this is not correct or fair to Mexico. There are plenty of safe places to visit in this beautiful country.
Mexico is one of the famous countries that motorcycle enthusiasts visit when they want a little adventure.
It is a land of contrasts, with bustling cities and hidden villages, sprawling beaches, and towering mountains.
And there is no better way to see the country than on a motorcycle. With the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin, you can truly experience the diversity of this beautiful country.
Despite the negative perceptions you may have been fed through mainstream media, it is absolutely safe for tourists to drive and ride a motorcycle through Mexico.
We spent three months riding through most of Mexico, including the entire Baja California peninsula, most of mainland Mexico, and the Yucatan peninsula.
I had a blast driving through and living in Mexico. Since we were on a budget, we even motorcycle camped, and we felt safe the entire time.
We found the most amazing places to set up our motorcycle camping tents and woke up to some unforgettable views.
Mexico truly is an outstandingly beautiful country.
So, Is It Safe to Drive Through Mexico?
We did not run into issues with any cartel, organized crime groups, or even crooked police one single time while motorcycling through Mexico.
Locals in every location we stopped in the entire country went out of their way to make us feel welcome.
Honestly, if you aren’t looking for trouble, you typically won’t find it.
It is important to understand the rules of the road to make sure you are not endangering yourself or others.
Just be sure to bring proper riding gear and the right attitude. Be alert and pay attention to other drivers and road conditions just as you would riding a motorcycle anywhere.
Of course, there are some risks involved in any motorcycle travel. But as long as you take precautions and use common sense, it is perfectly safe to drive through Mexico.
So strap on your helmet and hit the open road.
How To Cross the Border From the U.S. to Mexico on Your Motorcycle
Crossing the border from the United States to Mexico is not complicated as long as you have your paperwork in order.
Mexican officers will enforce the rules strictly and will not allow you to enter the country if you don’t adhere to the regulations.
What To Bring for the Border Crossing Into Mexico
- PATIENCE! I had to list this one first because it is the most important. In our post-pandemic world, there is nothing more vital to have at land border crossings than a calm, level-headed mind and patience.
- Passport (Original and a copy): You must present your passport before crossing the border. You may be able to ride into Mexico without one, but the U.S. will require you to have one to return to the country.
- A License (Original and a copy): If you are riding a motorcycle, you need a license to prove that you are a licensed rider. Your U.S. motorcycle license will work fine. (And so will your normal U.S. driver’s license).
- Registration of the Bike (Original and a copy): This is VERY important to carry on you at the border crossing. Without your registration, you will not be able to get a TIP (Temporary Import Permit) for your motorcycle.
- Insurance: Make sure you purchase Mexican motorcycle insurance to ride in Mexico. It is required and is easiest to purchase online. Your U.S.A. insurance is no good once you are across the border.
Do I Need Auto Insurance to Drive in Mexico?
If you were wondering if it is safe to drive through Mexico, your next question will most likely be about auto insurance.
Yes, you need auto insurance, specifically Mexican auto insurance, to drive any vehicle legally through the country, whether it be by car, truck, or motorcycle.
Luckily, I found a great Mexican auto insurance company online called: ➤ Baja Bound.
I highly recommend this company if you are looking for a quick and easy, no-hassle process. They offer very affordable prices specific to what you need for any type of Auto Insurance, and their customer service is fantastic.
Plus, the process is SO simple and straightforward. You can literally get a quote and buy any policy you need easily online right now. Check it out!
The Temporary Import Permit
You can ride into Baja California without a TIP (Temporary Import Permit).
However, if you plan to ride to mainland Mexico- which I absolutely advise doing- you will need a TIP for the rest of your travels.
You get your TIP at the Aduana (customs) building.
You will need to pay a $400 deposit for the permit if your motorcycle is the year 2007 or newer. Older bikes are a lesser deposit (years 2000 and older are $200, and 2001-2006 models are $300).
You will get this money back when you exit Mexico with your motorcycle.
Be Prepared to Wait
It took us five and a half hours for the five of us to complete our paperwork, make sure we had everything we needed, and continue past the border crossing.
Four of us got our TIPs (which took the longest), and Cody decided not to get the TIP since he was only riding in the Baja peninsula with us.
It is SO important that you remain patient throughout the border crossing process.
It is very likely that you will not find any English-speaking border employees, so communication is limited and difficult.
While I believe it would have been much easier and quicker if any of us spoke Spanish, it is definitely not required to get through the border.
Google Translate on our phones was our best friend.
Also, make sure you get to the border as early as possible to avoid getting stuck in the long lines and increasing your wait time.
It may not take you the five and a half hours that it took us, but have the patient mindset that it may take all day.
Motorcycle and Scooter Rental in Mexico
Looking to rent a motorcycle or scooter in Mexico to go on your own epic Mexico adventure ride?
I have you covered! We will go over all the information you need about renting a motorcycle or scooter in Mexico.
Do You Need a Motorcycle License to Rent a Motorcycle in Mexico?
In Mexico, you simply need a valid Driver’s Licence and a year or more of driving experience to rent a motorcycle or scooter in Mexico.
Your U.S. Drivers License will work perfectly.
What You Need to Rent a Scooter or Motorcycle
When you are renting a motorcycle or scooter in Mexico, be sure to have:
- A Valid Passport
- A Valid Driver’s License
- Security deposit (prices vary depending on the bike rental)
- A Helmet is required by law in Mexico.
Good Mexico motorcycle and scooter rental companies will also rent you the equipment you need, such as motorcycle helmets, motorcycle gear, GPS, extra bags, top boxes, etc.
How Old Do You Need to Be?
Age requirements to rent a motorcycle or scooter range from 18 years old to 25 years old.
If you are curious about what types of bikes qualify for your age range, check out your options HERE.
Simply enter the area of Mexico you are visiting, put in your dates, and hit enter.
Click on the scooters or motorcycles that catch your eye, and they will list the age requirements for that particular ride.
Cancun Scooter Rental
POV: You have arrived for your vacation in Cancun, Mexico! After checking in to your room, you start looking around for things to do.
You have no transportation of your own, but a thrilling image of you on the open road pops into your mind.
The wind whips through your hair, and everyone turns to see you on a sweet, badass scooter, flying through the resorts and checking out the winding roads near the ocean.
Renting a motorcycle or scooter in Cancun is such a great way to explore the area in your own way, on your own time, without having to drop loads of cash on a taxi overcharging you because you look “touristy.”
The scooter rentals in Cancun tend to sell out FAST.
So, I strongly recommend checking the link above for availability and locking in your rental well before your trip.
If you are vacationing in other areas of Mexico, you can find motorcycle and scooter rentals a little more easily without having to search so far in advance.
Mexico City and Cozumel Rentals
Mexico City has some fantastic options for motorcycle rentals as well. They even have options such as big BMWs if you are looking for a real adventure bike.
Travis and I, along with his cousin Taylen, decided to explore the Island of Cozumel, just off the coast near Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
I was pleasantly surprised at the availability of scooter rentals on this fun Mexican Island.
Honestly, renting a vehicle, motorcycle, or scooter is the BEST way to explore the island of Cozumel.
It is such a thrilling adventure, and you see much more of the island than you normally would.
While having a blast riding your new scooter and motorcycle rentals through Mexico, just remember that you still have to abide by Mexican driving laws and safety.
Now, I will cover some of the laws important for your safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico and the rules of the road.
Motorcycle, scooter, and driving laws do not differ too much from the United States.
However, there are some key differences and traffic laws you need to keep in mind.
Mexico Motorcycle Laws and Rules of the Road
To ride safely in Mexico, you must know traffic laws. This way, you can easily stay safe on the road without having to overthink everything.
This section will give you some insight into what you need to know when riding in Mexico.
Mexico Road Signs
Understanding the road signs and the rules will give you a better time on the road. Mexico uses many international graphic signs that should be easy to recognize.
However, seeing Spanish on a sign when you don’t know the language could be intimidating. Here are a few of the more important ones that you should be aware of:
- Alto Sign: Alto means Stop. This was the first Mexican road sign we came across, luckily, it looks exactly like the Stop sign in the U.S. Red octagon with white lettering. Stop and yield the right of way.
- Curva Peligrosa: Dangerous curve. And when they say dangerous curve, you better believe they mean it. SLOW DOWN!
- Despacio: Slow
- No Rebase: No Passing
- Prohibido Estacionarse: No parking
- Salida: Exit
- Entrada: Entrance
- Camino Cerrado: Road closed
This is obviously just a quick, short list to give you a general idea.
Also, as a side note, none of us had any knowledge of Spanish road signs before riding motorcycles through Mexico.
So don’t stress yourself by trying to memorize every road sign in Spanish. If you would prefer to learn these road signs before riding through Mexico, even better!
Splitting Lanes
The Mexican government permits this. However, you have to use extra caution and be aware of the other drivers when splitting lanes on the road.
Also, be careful not to invade the other lane when splitting lanes to avoid accidents.
Helmet Laws
In Mexico, motorcycle riders are required by law to wear a helmet at all times.
Failure to do so can result in a fine. While this may seem like a hassle, it’s actually for good reason: To protect you!
However, even if you are not the one driving, it is still advisable to wear a helmet for safety purposes.
There are many potential dangers on the roads, and a helmet can help protect you from serious injury if you are involved in an accident.
Helmets should fit snugly and be fastened securely in order to be effective.
In addition, wearing a helmet can also help to protect you from the elements.
The sun can be very harsh in Mexico, and a helmet can help to keep your head cool and prevent sunburn.
Insurance in Mexico
I know I said this before, but don’t forget to get auto insurance when driving in Mexico!
There are many, many checkpoints along the roads and highways in Mexico. While these checkpoints are quick and harmless, they still may ask to see your documents, which include proof of insurance.
Turn Signals
When driving in Mexico, it’s important to be aware of the differences in the way that turn signals are used.
In the United States, motorists typically use their turn signals when they are about to change lanes or make a turn.
However, in Mexico, it’s common to see drivers using their turn signals continually, even when they are not changing lanes or making a turn.
Riders may use blinkers as a courtesy to let other drivers know where they are going. It is important to be cautious and yield the right-of-way if possible.
In addition, turn signals may be used to thank other drivers for yielding or to let them know that it is safe to pass.
While these practices may seem strange to drivers from the US, they are considered to be good manners in Mexico.
Although it may seem confusing at first, understanding the proper use of turn signals in Mexico will help you stay safe on the roads.
Passing
When driving in Mexico, you must be careful when passing and be sure to maintain a safe distance. Do not exceed the speed limit while overtaking other vehicles.
In Mexico, passing may be done on the right side of the road as well as the left. Motorcycles have the ability to weave in and out of cars and go around other vehicles however they wish.
It is also common for cars and motorcycles to share the same lane in Mexico. This can be disorienting for visitors who are used to having their own dedicated lane.
Use caution when passing and stay alert. Make sure others on the road know where you are and utilize your blinkers so that drivers understand where you are going.
Topes
Ahhh, the infamous Topes!
There is nothing like taking in the culture as you cruise by delicious smells of street food stands coming up on a new town in Mexico, wind in your hair, a smile on your face…
And then, WHAM! You nail that Tope, hit some mad air, and slam back onto the ground, crushing your tailbone and your dignity.
Topes are speed bumps. They are a safety measure to ensure you don’t drive above the speed limit, especially at night.
You see them most often when coming up to a town or village.
Watch out for these bumps, be respectful to pedestrians, your bike, and your butt, and SLOW DOWN when you see signs for them.
Those suckers come out of nowhere!
Roads and Driving
If you’re planning a road trip through Mexico, you, of course, might be wondering about the condition of the country’s roads. Most visitors to Mexico are actually surprised by the condition of the country’s roads.
Despite what you may have heard, the majority of paved roads are well-maintained and offer a smooth, comfortable ride.
While the occasional pothole or rough patch will inevitably pop up, overall, you’ll find that Mexico’s main paved roads are in good condition.
In addition, many of Mexico’s highways are newly built and offer excellent views of the countryside.
So, if you’re looking for an adventure, don’t let worries about the condition of Mexico’s roads stop you from starting your journey.
If you like to get off the beaten path and explore, which is to be expected when riding a motorcycle, you will tend to encounter less maintained roads.
Use caution and watch out for potholes and other hazards.
Helpful Tips for Safe Motorcycling in Mexico
Motorcycling can be a fun, exciting, and even thrilling experience. However, there are some things that you need to keep in mind to stay safe.
Make sure you pack the essentials on your trip to Mexico, understand Mexican motorcycle laws, and always stay alert.
Here are a couple of other important tips that you should take into consideration when researching your safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico:
Gas
If you remember nothing else from this safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico, remember this:
Never 👏 pass 👏 up 👏 a 👏 Gas 👏 Station.
If you aren’t paying attention to your route or road signs, you may miss signs that tell you that you are about to enter a long stretch without an opportunity to refill your tank.
We road 125cc Honda Monkey bikes through the entire country of Mexico. These little bikes can’t go much more than 120 miles without needing to refuel.
We carried extra fuel on our bikes, of course, but we did make the mistake of running out of gas. More than a few times.
After having to figure out how to get to a town for fuel and get back to our bikes, we never passed up an opportunity to fill our tanks full.
Even if you are at half a tank and a gas station comes up, pull in and fill ‘er up.
Gas stations throughout Mexico are full-service, and they generally do not allow you to fill your own tank.
When paying using cards, always carry a pen with you.
Pro tip: Have some cash in pesos with you as well to avoid the long wait you can sometimes run into when the station only has one attendant and one card machine available.
Toll Roads vs. Libre (Free Roads)
Part of utilizing this safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico is understanding that some planning for your daily ride through Mexico is important.
There are many roads in Mexico, and a lot of the time, you will have the choice to take a toll road or a libre (free) one. Several rules govern toll roads, while the libre roads are less strict.
Before you leave on each daily ride or adventure, ensure you know the route you intend to take and which roads are toll roads or libre.
Note: the toll roads take CASH ONLY! You will absolutely need to have pesos on hand because they will not be able to take any card whatsoever.
Military Checkpoints
If you are driving through areas where the military is in control, you will have to stop at a checkpoint. These checkpoints are there to ensure that the drivers have passed through their security checks.
They may ask to see your driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of auto insurance, and other forms of identification.
Once, an official asked me to look inside one of my backpacks strapped to my bike.
I simply unstrapped and opened the bag, and he nodded and said that was good enough.
Super easy.
Most of the time (especially when you are on a motorcycle, from my own personal experience), the military officials will simply wave you on and won’t ask you for anything.
These checkpoints are there for everyone’s safety. They are a quick and simple stop and are nothing to worry about.
Don’t Ride After Dark
It is not a good idea to ride your motorcycle during the nighttime. Riding after dark in an unknown place can be dangerous.
The roads are less lit, and you may have low visibility.
There are always many random animals that wander into the road, and there are potholes and topes (speed bumps) hiding on the road in the dark, just waiting to be hit.
Also, to stay smart and safe in areas where the crime rate is higher than average, it is important to have your ride finished for the day by the time night falls.
This way, you can avoid issues of crime and theft.
Talk to Locals and Meet Local Riders
One of the most helpful tips I could possibly give you for your safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico: Talk to the locals!
Mexico is a country with a rich culture and friendly people. And while the country may be best known for its tourist attractions, there is much to be said for getting to know the locals.
In Mexico, motorcycling is a total way of life. It seemed as though almost every person we met had a motorcycle.
Motorcyclists in Mexico are some of the most passionate and knowledgeable riders you will meet. They have a deep love for their bikes and take great pride in their skills.
New Friends!
The locals are always happy to talk about their bikes and share their love of riding. In addition, they are very welcoming and kind, always willing to help visitors.
People riding by us always slowed to give us a thumbs up or wave hello. Some even stopped to take pictures with us!
Without fail, we made new friends with locals at every gas station and convenience store we stopped at on our bikes.
People were genuinely interested in us and our bikes and asked detailed questions about our travels.
New friends we made in Mexico offered us their homes to stay in; we were taken out for countless drinks, lunches, brunches, and dinners.
Our friends Elena and Marco from Amigomoto in Aguascalientes, Mexico, took us for countless joyrides in their sidecars and even held a Disorderly Drifters Rally to help us complete an Iron Butt SaddleSore in Mexico!
We are forever grateful for the amazing hospitality and lifelong friendships we have formed with these kick-ass people!
Drink Lots of Water
When riding your motorcycle, you will get hot, and you can easily overheat. You need to have enough water on you to keep hydrated.
I carried my camelback with me at all times when on long rides. I also carry a self-filtering water bottle, so I don’t always have to buy water bottles.
The water is not safe to drink from the tap in Mexico.
So, investing in a self-filtering water bottle makes your life so much easier. And it saves on all the plastic waste from bottled water.
It also keeps my water cold, which is much needed on those hot days and long rides.
Do You Need To Know Spanish To Drive Through Mexico?
It is not necessary to know Spanish to drive through Mexico. However, learning a few basic phrases before you leave will go a long way in helping you communicate with locals.
After spending three months in Mexico, we were getting the hang of some basic Spanish words and phrases pretty quickly!
Some familiarity with the Spanish language and local customs is helpful. Even if you have only practiced a few words before riding into the country, it can go a long way.
Try practicing with Duolingo. This has been (and still is) my absolute favorite app for learning new languages, and it has helped me so much in all of my travels.
Take Photos with a Motorcycle Camera
Motorcycle photography can be a fun and thrilling experience. However, this is risky unless you have a good motorcycle helmet camera or camera that can attach to your bike or body.
You might lose regular cameras (or your phone) by accident when taking pictures while riding your motorcycle. Using a good-quality motorcycle camera will ensure you capture your best moments.
Always Be Alert
When you’re on a motorcycle, you’re fully exposed to the elements. You don’t have the benefit of seatbelts, airbags, or the metal shell of a car to protect you.
That’s why it’s so important to be alert and aware of your surroundings.
Watch for hazards in the road, such as potholes or debris, and be prepared to swerve if necessary.
Be especially cautious when entering blind spots, and always use your turn signals to let other drivers know your intentions.
Pay attention to the cars around you, and don’t assume that they see you. Use your horn if necessary to make sure that other drivers are aware of your presence.
When the weather conditions are less than ideal, it’s even more important to take things slow and be extra careful.
Believe it or not, it actually does snow in parts of Mexico! Always pay attention to weather updates and be careful.
By being alert and cautious, you can help make sure that your rides are always safe and enjoyable.
Tips for Safe Motorcycle Parking in Mexico
The next step for your safety guide to motorcycling in Mexico: Safe parking!
When parking your motorcycle in Mexico, it is important to take into account both the risks and the rewards.
On the one hand, there are many beautiful and historic sites to see in Mexico, and parking your motorcycle in a safe and secure location will allow you to enjoy these attractions without worry.
On the other hand, parking your motorcycle in an unsafe or poorly lit location could lead to theft or vandalism.
Safety Guide for Motorcycling in Mexico- Parking Tips:
- Find a Safe Parking Space.
- If possible, park near a security camera or guard. This will help deter would-be thieves and also give you peace of mind knowing that someone is keeping an eye on your motorcycle.
- Use Locks. Another tip for safe motorcycle parking in Mexico is to lock up your bike. This includes both the ignition and the steering lock.
You should get a good-quality bike lock and secure your bike properly. Use a solid lock so that it can offer maximum protection.
- Another essential tip for safe motorcycle parking in Mexico is to ensure you secure your valuables. Make sure you don’t leave anything valuable on your motorcycle. Always empty your open luggage pockets before parking your bike.
- Finally, don’t forget to set your alarm. This will not only alert you if someone tries to tamper with your bike, but it will also give you a chance to escape if there’s an emergency.
Following these simple tips will help ensure that you can enjoy your time in Mexico without worrying about the safety of your motorcycle.
Wrapping it Up
Motorcycling in Mexico can be a thrilling experience, but it’s important to be aware of the risks before you hit the open road. Bring the right gear from your motorcycle gift wishlist to be prepared.
Let us be your guide, and keep these safety tips to keep in mind:
First and foremost, always wear a helmet.
In Mexico, motorcycle helmets are required. This is non-negotiable. It is important to wear the proper gear, including a helmet, boots, and protective clothing.
For safety reasons, I strongly recommend avoiding riding at night. If you must ride at night, be extra cautious.
Many roads may be poorly lit, and there are often animals or pedestrians wandering into the path of oncoming traffic. Slow down and be prepared to brake suddenly if necessary.
When crossing borders, be sure to have all of the necessary paperwork in order. Carry your TIP and passport documents with you everywhere you ride.
Be prepared and get yourself auto insurance to drive legally in Mexico.
and get that step checked off your list!✔️
Finally, familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws and regulations before getting on the road.
Above all, use common sense and be alert when driving in Mexico. (As you would driving anywhere).
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and pull over to a safe place until you’re sure it’s safe to continue.
By following these tips, you’ll find that motorcycling in Mexico is not only safe, but it is truly a breeze. This country will gift you some of the most beautiful, exciting rides you will ever experience.
Keep the rubber side down.✌️
