What are the mandatory requirements?
There are certain requirements that tend to be mandatory worldwide, regardless of your nationality, such as a driver's license, a credit card, and being over 21 years old. However, these requirements can vary within Mexico, depending on the location, the rental company, and their specific policies. Below, Rentcars offers some recommendations on possible additional details that might be requested at the time of rental.
Here are some common examples:
Being at least 21 years old (Additional young renter fees may apply if you are between 18 and 25 years old).
Personal identification document (ID card).
A valid driver's license of the same nationality as your ID card. If you are Mexican, your driver's license should also be registered at the same address as your INE (National Electoral Institute).
The credit card must have been issued at least one year ago, be personalized with the reservation holder's name, and be issued by a conventional bank. Rental companies do not accept credit cards issued by virtual banks or prepaid cards. Most rental companies accept American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Banamex, BBVA Bancomer, Banorte, Santander, HSBC, and Scotiabank cards. Be sure to check with the rental company which credit cards are accepted in case the payment method chosen for your reservation requires any payment at the counter.
Note: The amount of the security deposit on your credit card may vary depending on whether or not you take the full coverage offered by the rental company, the vehicle category, and the type of credit card. Therefore, we recommend having an available limit of at least USD 400 on your card. It's also important to know that cash security deposits are not accepted.
Proof of residence for Mexicans: If you are Mexican and intend to rent a vehicle within Mexico but outside your city of residence, some rental companies may request proof of residence, as well as evidence of your trip, such as a plane ticket or another document that proves your travel to the destination. This mostly applies in states bordering the United States, such as Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas.
International Driving Permit and Passport for Foreign Clients: If you are a foreigner and intend to travel to Mexico, it is essential that you have your International Driving Permit (IDP) and an original passport valid for the entire duration of your reservation.