How to buy a car in Mexico as a foreigner: US guide

If you're living in Mexico as an expat, you'll likely eventually need your own vehicle, especially if the area you live in isn't fully walkable or you don't want to drive a motorcycle or a scooter.

As an American considering buying a car in Mexico, you probably have questions about whether foreigners can purchase vehicles, what the registration process involves, and what costs to expect.

Here's everything you need to know about buying a car in Mexico, which can be intimidating when you don't speak the language or aren't familiar with how everything works.

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Table of contents
Can Americans buy a car in Mexico? What are the requirements to buy a car in Mexico as a US citizen? Types of cars to buy in Mexico Where to buy a car in Mexico How much is a car in Mexico? How to buy a car in Mexico: step by step Driving in Mexico: Requirements How to import a car from Mexico to the US

Can Americans buy a car in Mexico?

Yes, Americans can buy a car in Mexico, but typically only if they have legal residency status. The days of tourists purchasing vehicles are over because of some changes in registration requirements.

To register a car in Mexico, you need two identification numbers: a CURP and an RFC.¹

The CURP (Clave Única de Registro de Población) works like a Mexican Social Security number, and you can only get one if you're a temporary or permanent resident. If you're in Mexico on the 180-day tourist entry that US passport holders use, you can't legally register a vehicle in your name.

The RFC (Registro Federal de Contribuyentes) is your tax identification number issued by SAT, which is Mexico's IRS. Mexican law now requires an RFC to complete a new vehicle purchase, and your RFC number appears on the official factura (invoice) you get after buying. You'll also need an RFC to register your vehicle.

To get an RFC, you must first have Mexican residency and a CURP and then apply at a local SAT office with your resident card and CURP documentation.

In other words, buying a car in Mexico is only realistic for Americans who have temporary or permanent residency in the country.

What are the requirements to buy a car in Mexico as a US citizen?

You'll typically need to gather these documents before starting the buying process:

• Valid passport: Your US passport is your primary identification throughout the purchase

• Mexican residency card or visa: Either temporary or permanent residency is required to go through the car registration process

• CURP number: This national identification number proves your status as a legal resident and is required for RFC registration

• RFC number: Your tax registration number from SAT is mandatory for completing the purchase and appears on your vehicle's factura (invoice)

• Proof of address in Mexico: You may need to show utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements with a Mexican address for registration

Your US license works in Mexico, but you may want to eventually get a Mexican license, especially if you're staying in the country long-term.

The registration process happens through your state's transit department (equivalent to a DMV), but the requirements can look a little different depending on the state. You may need to bring additional documents.

Types of cars to buy in Mexico

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New cars

New cars don't have any previous damage or mechanical issues, but they cost a lot more up front and require either a full cash payment or financing arrangements that can be difficult for foreigners to get.

You may sometimes be able to get financing at a dealership in Mexico, but you typically need to be a resident with an established credit history in the country.

A lot of the time, getting a new car in Mexico isn't worth it for expats, unless you strongly prefer to drive a new vehicle.

Used cars

Most expats buy used cars because they're more practical for Mexican driving conditions. Scratches and minor dings are common because of narrow streets and somewhat chaotic driving.

Used cars cost a lot less than new ones, which makes them easier to purchase with cash since financing options are limited for foreigners.

You don't need a fancy new car when you live in Mexico — you just need a reliable one. If you're buying used, make sure to have a mechanic thoroughly inspect the vehicle before buying, because there can be hidden maintenance issues.

Where to buy a car in Mexico

Many expats in Mexico find their cars through word-of-mouth and tools like Facebook groups. However, you can also visit a dealership for both new and used vehicles.

Here are a few options for where to buy a car in Mexico:

• Official dealerships: Car showrooms from brands like Nissan and Toyota sell new vehicles with warranties, and they can also sometimes help you handle the registration paperwork

• Used car dealerships: These lots sell pre-owned vehicles, but organization and customer service can fall short of US standards

• Facebook groups: Expat communities on Facebook often list cars for sale as people move in and out of Mexico, so you can usually find good deals there

• Word of mouth: Asking other expats or neighbors about available vehicles can often lead to good opportunities with private sellers

• Online marketplaces: Mexican sites like Mercado Libre list vehicles, though meeting sellers in person and verifying documentation is very important

Buying from a dealership might seem more professional than a private sale, but Mexican dealerships can be less organized than what you're used to in the US.

Getting answers to questions or resolving issues after the sale can be difficult, and overall, the process isn't necessarily smoother than buying privately.

Dealerships also charge higher prices than private sellers, so compare all your options before deciding. If you find a good deal from a private seller, it can often be worth it.

How much is a car in Mexico?

New car prices in Mexico are usually comparable to or higher than what you see in the US, but it's possible to find a better deal on a used vehicle.

Overall, if you're wondering, "Is it cheaper to buy a car in Mexico?" the answer is, “not necessarily,” but you may get lucky with certain models, depending on the car's age.

Here's what to expect in terms of costs at a glance:

Expense	Approximate cost
Volkswagen Golf 1.5 (compact car)	21,492 USD²
Toyota Corolla sedan 1.6 (mid-size car)	24,596 USD²
License plates (Derechos tax)	140 USD to 277 USD³
Tenencia (annual vehicle tax, some states)	Varies by state
Car insurance (annual)	400 USD to 500+ USD depending on coverage¹ ⁴
Mechanic inspection help	Varies
Registration fees	Varies by state
Paperwork facilitator (optional)	Varies

While expenses like car insurance typically cost less in Mexico than they do in the US, you'll often have to budget to pay for services like a mechanic's inspection and facilitators to help navigate paperwork and registration.

These aren't usually particularly expensive, but they're an extra cost to keep in mind.

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How to buy a car in Mexico: step by step

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1. Make sure you have residency documents

You'll need residency or a long-term visa to obtain your CURP and RFC numbers, which are mandatory for car registration.

You can visit a local government office to apply for your CURP. Then, you'll need to take it along with your residency card to a SAT office to get your RFC tax identification number.

2. Set your budget

Decide how much you can spend on the car, and don't forget to factor in costs like insurance and potential repairs (for used vehicles). Most foreigners need to pay cash since financing is difficult to get, but some dealerships will offer it at very high interest rates.

3. Search for vehicles

You can browse Facebook expat groups, ask around your community, visit dealerships, or check Mexican online marketplaces. If you know any foreigners who are leaving Mexico, they often need to sell their car and may give you a good deal.

4. Verify that the vehicle isn't stolen

Before committing to any car, check its status through the Repuve system (Registro Público Vehicular). This national registry confirms whether a vehicle has been reported stolen or has outstanding liens. You can verify online using the vehicle identification number.

5. Inspect the vehicle

If you're buying a used car, it's very important to get a mechanic to check it out.

Mexican roads and driving conditions can be tough on vehicles, so check for mechanical issues, body damage, and signs of poor maintenance. There can be hidden issues that aren't that easy to spot.

6. Review all documentation

Verify that the seller has the original factura (official invoice), current registration papers, and proof that they own the vehicle free and clear. Make sure the VIN on the paperwork matches the car's VIN plate.

7. Get Mexican car insurance

Your US insurance doesn't cover you in Mexico, and driving without Mexican insurance is illegal. You'll need to buy coverage from a Mexican provider, and it's a good idea to compare a few quotes before committing to a policy.

8. Complete the sale

Pay for the vehicle and make sure you receive the factura with your RFC number on it. This document proves legal ownership.

The seller should sign over the title and provide any maintenance records if available.

9. Register the vehicle and get plates

Visit your state's transit department to register the car in your name. You'll need your passport, residency card, CURP, RFC, proof of address, the factura, and insurance documentation.

Many expats in Mexico hire a facilitator to handle registration paperwork since the process can often be confusing and requirements vary by state. Dealerships sometimes offer this service for an additional fee, too.

10. Pay taxes

Finally, to officially buy a car in Mexico, you'll need to pay all required fees and taxes, such as license plates (derechos tax) and vehicle ownership tax (tenencia tax). Not all states require the tenencia tax anymore, so confirm your local rules.

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Driving in Mexico: Requirements

Driving in Mexico will feel familiar to driving in the US, but you should watch out for road conditions, sometimes unpredictable traffic, and stray animals.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• You can use your US driver's license in Mexico, especially when accompanied by an International Driving Permit, but eventually consider getting a Mexican license for long-term stays

• Mexican car insurance is mandatory and separate from US insurance, which doesn't provide coverage once you cross the border

• Topes (speed bumps) are everywhere and often unmarked or poorly visible, so pay attention to them on residential streets and highways

• Avoid driving at night when possible because of poorly lit roads, unexpected obstacles, and a higher risk of crime, especially in areas you aren't familiar with

• Stay on toll roads (cuotas) rather than free or isolated roads for long distances because they're better maintained and safer

Overall, it's important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings when driving in Mexico. The driving culture can feel a little more aggressive than in the US, and some roads aren't well maintained.

However, ultimately, it's largely safe and easy.

How to import a car from Mexico to the US

Can I buy a car in Mexico and bring it to the US? Theoretically, yes, but it's often a complicated and expensive process because you have to meet US safety and emissions standards to import a vehicle.

You'll have to comply with Department of Transportation and EPA regulations, which will often involve having to modify your vehicle.

After factoring in import compliance costs, modifications, paperwork fees, and the time involved, importing rarely saves money unless you're bringing a specialty or classic vehicle unavailable in the US.

Most Americans sell their Mexican car before returning to the US.

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If you want to buy a car in Mexico, it's important to research car prices and compare buying from dealerships versus private sellers to make the most of your purchase.

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Using a bank transfer, your US card, or even withdrawing cash comes with high fees and poor currency exchange rates. You're already spending thousands on a vehicle, and you can lose hundreds more to money transfer expenses, which is frustrating.

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Sources

1. Backpacking Brunette - Buying a car in Mexico
2. Numbeo - Cost of Living in Mexico
3. Mexperience - The Typical Costs of Running Your Own Car in Mexico
4. Expat Insurance - Buying a Car in Mexico

Sources checked 12/27/2025