To rent a car in Mexico as a foreigner you need three things: a valid passport, a valid driver's license from your home country (no international license required) and a card or cash for the security deposit. The minimum age is 18.
It's simpler than many people think: your national license is valid for driving in Mexico during your stay as a tourist. Below we explain exactly what we ask for in Puerto Escondido and how to avoid the most common hiccups.
Documents you need
These are the documents we ask for when you pick up the car. Having them ready makes the handover take minutes:
- Valid passport (your official ID as a foreigner).
- Valid driver's license from your home country.
- A credit or debit card, or cash, for the security deposit.
- Your round-trip flight ticket.
- Your accommodation details in the area (hotel, Airbnb or other).
Do I need an international driver's license?
No. To drive in Mexico as a tourist, your valid national driver's license is enough, regardless of the language it's in. You don't need to obtain an international driving permit.
The only thing that matters is that your license is valid for all the dates of your rental. If it expires mid-trip, let us know beforehand so we can work it out.
Tip: if your license is in a non-Latin alphabet, an international driving permit can make things easier at a traffic checkpoint, but it's not a requirement to rent with us.
Minimum age to rent
The minimum age to rent a car with us is 18, with a valid license. On premium units with a chauffeur, the driver is provided by the company, so the customer's age isn't a limit for that service.
The security deposit, explained
The security deposit is an amount held when you pick up the car and returned when you hand it back without damage. It's not a charge or an extra cost: it's a safeguard, and in the vast majority of rentals it's released in full.
The amount is approximately $8,000 MXN depending on the vehicle category. The key point: nothing is charged online at booking; the deposit is handled at handover.
Insurance: what's included
All our rates include basic third-party liability coverage, which covers damage to others. For extra peace of mind you can ask about additional coverage depending on the unit and your trip.
If you have a credit card that offers rental car insurance, check its conditions before you travel: it sometimes covers part of the deposit or damage, though terms vary by bank and country.
Tips for foreigners renting in Puerto Escondido
A few things we tell all our visitors from abroad:
- Book before you travel, especially in high season (December to Easter): the best units sell out.
- Share your flight number when booking to coordinate pick-up at our branch, 5 minutes from the airport (PXM).
- Drive during the day if it's your first time on the coastal highway: some stretches have speed bumps and little lighting.
- Keep a digital copy of your passport and license just in case.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent a car in Mexico with my foreign license?
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Yes. Your valid national driver's license is valid for driving in Mexico as a tourist. You don't need an international license to rent with us.
What age do you need to rent a car in Puerto Escondido?
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The minimum age is 18 with a valid driver's license.
Do I need a credit card for the deposit?
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We accept card or cash for the security deposit. Message us on WhatsApp if you have questions about your case.
How much is the deposit and when is it returned?
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Approximately $8,000 MXN depending on the car category. It's held when you pick up the vehicle and released when you return it without damage.
Is insurance included in the rental price?
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Yes, all rates include basic third-party liability coverage. You can ask about additional coverage depending on the unit.
Where do I pick up the car if I arrive by plane?
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At our branch on the Coastal Highway, 5 minutes from Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM). We coordinate the pick-up with you over WhatsApp based on your arrival time.