Do You Need A Passport To Go To Mexico?

Posted by Passport Editorial March, 27th 2024 in Frequently Asked Questions

161 Comments

Do you need a passport to go to Mexico? Yes! All US citizens, regardless of age, must hold a valid passport when flying into Mexico. Some instances exist where travelers may not need a passport to visit Mexico, which we cover in detail below. However, it is best practice to carry a valid passport anytime you cross an international border.

You can expedite your passport in as little as 3 business days if needed. Here are the travel requirements for each of the circumstances below.

Flying Into/Out of Mexico

US citizens of any age flying to or from Mexico must have a US passport book, no exceptions. You should be aware that you cannot use a US passport card for international air travel. The Passport Card is designed for frequent travelers by land and sea to Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. We strongly encourage travelers to always carry their passport books too.

Traveling to Mexico by Land

When you travel to Mexico by land, you need one of the following documents to return to the US. These include the US Passport Book, US Passport Card, Nexus, SENTRI, FAST card, or an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL).

Currently, only a small number of states offer Enhanced Driver’s Licenses. None of the current states that share a border with Mexico offers this option.

Traveling to Mexico by Sea

Traveling to Mexico by sea is similar to traveling to Mexico by land unless you are on a closed-loop cruise. A closed-loop cruise is a cruise that begins and ends at the same US port. American citizens on a closed-loop cruise can use the following documents:

a driver’s license or other government-issued photo ID AND
an original or copy of their birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship to re-enter the country.

Many cruise lines strongly recommend travelers carry a valid passport, even for closed-loop cruises. If there is an emergency or situation that requires you to change your travel plans, you will need a passport. For example:

If you miss your embarkation and need to fly to meet the ship
If a ship experiences a mechanical failure that requires it to dock in another post
If you have a medical emergency that requires evacuation to a hospital on another island

It’s better to be safe in these situations by having your passport valid for longer than the expected duration of the trip.

Traveling with Children to Mexico

Children under the age of 16 traveling to and from Mexico by land or sea can use any of the following to re-enter the country:

Birth certificate
Certificate of citizenship
Naturalization certificate

Children under the age of 19 traveling with an adult-chaperoned organization such as a school group, religious group, social or cultural organization, or sports team can also use their birth certificates, certificates of citizenship, or certificates of naturalization.

However, children of any age traveling by air to and from Mexico must have a passport book. Again, it’s best to carry a passport to just be safe.

Three Ways to Get Your Passport Fast

If you need a passport fast, make sure to know when you are traveling and how soon you need it. This will help ensure you get your passport before your trip.

If you’re planning to leave the country sooner than later, you’ll likely need some type of expedited passport service. Current routine processing for passports currently takes up to 8 weeks. If you want to get your passport in time, it’s important to choose the right expediting method from the start.

1. Expedited Passport Service at a Passport Acceptance Office

One way to get a passport fast is to ask for expedited services at the post office or a passport acceptance office. You’ll pay a $60 expediting fee in addition to your regular application fees. For overnight delivery, an additional shipping fee will apply.

Expediting at the post office generally gets you service in up to 3 weeks, and is not guaranteed. In addition, any problems with your applications or documentation could delay your passport.

2. Expedited Service at a Regional Passport Agency

You can also get a new passport by making an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. However, there are some requirements you must meet. You have to be departing for your international trip within 14 days or less, or if you’re leaving next month and need to get a visa before you travel.

In this situation, Regional Passport Agencies will typically get your passport to you within 8 business days. It can be hard to schedule an appointment because there are only a few agencies serving the entire country. You may have to travel to get to one near you.

Additionally, passport agencies often have limited operating hours. If you work during the day and can’t get time off, this may not be an option for you. At a Regional Passport Agency, you will pay an additional $60 fee for expedited service. This fee is the same as what you would pay at a Passport Acceptance Office.

3. Using a Passport Expediting Company

If you need a passport quickly, you can use a private passport expediting company. This is an alternative to going to a regional passport agency or waiting at a Passport Acceptance Office or post office.

A registered passport expediting company will take your application to the Department of State, where it will be processed in as little as 3 business days. The company will then ship your new passport back to you, usually overnight.

Not only does using an expediting company reduce the time needed to receive a United States passport, but it also lessens the chance of errors that could delay your application. If there’s a setback at the passport office, the expediting company can let you know immediately so you can make corrections. This will get your passport on its way to processing and back to you in time for your trip.

Get Your Passport Fast With RushMyPassport

If you need a passport quickly, but don’t have the time or patience to go to a passport agency, RushMyPassport can help. With services ranging from new passports, passport renewals, child passports, or replacing a lost or stolen passport, RushMyPassport is the most convenient way to get a passport in a hurry! Visit us online to get started, or visit a FedEx Office location near you!

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161 Responses

November, 26th 2023Najeebullah
It’s good
February, 6th 2023James
I know an EDL is needed to get back into the U.S. from a land border, but what about getting INTO Mexico? Is an EDL enough if by land? Or do I need a passport to enter Mexico? (And if I need a passport, what is the point of an EDL?)
December, 29th 2022InstantVitalRecords
I plan to go to Mexico with my husband, so I am researching to ensure I will bring all we need and have a great trip and vacation. Great post!
- January, 24th 2023Passport Editorial
  Thank you for the kind words! We're happy to hear that this post was helpful in planning your trip!
February, 20th 2022Edna
If I'm from Guatemala do I need a passport to travel to Tijuana by car or I just need my green card?
- February, 21st 2022Russ V
  Anytime you are crossing borders from country to country, you will need a passport. The nationals of Guatemala who wish to travel to Mexico for tourism or business purposes must first obtain a visa from the nearest Mexican diplomatic mission. A Mexico tourist card is also mandatory.
January, 25th 2022Cecilia
Question. I am a US citizen and have my passport card. I plan to travel by land through CBX in San Diego to Tijuana airport to fly to Cancun. I know my passport card will get me back to US but does this also let me board flight in Tijuana? or do I need an actual passport book to board flight? My husband is also a legal permanent resident who will be traveling with me. Can he use his LPR card for flight too or does he need a mexican citizenship card from the consulate?
- January, 26th 2022Russ V
  To board a plane, you must have a passport book, as a card is not allowed to fly internationally. A card can only be used for driving or cruising travel. You can use it in country, such as Europe, if you are traveling via bullet train from one country to another.
January, 10th 2022Kevin
Can I get into Mexico with just my California Id and my birth certificate
- January, 19th 2022Russ V
  Good day Kevin! Sorry but unless the drivers license is an enhanced Drivers License, they will not allow you in, based on what we have been told. I would not encourage you to try, but would ask that you contact the Mexican consulate to see if they would allow you to do so,
August, 4th 2021M. Hardy
You state: "US citizens of any age flying to or from Mexico must have a US passport book, no exceptions." But a U.S. citizen who is also a Mexican citizen flying from Jamaica to Mexico does _not_ need a U.S. passport. And U.S. citizens entering the "border zone" within 20 km of the U.S./Mexico border do not need a U.S. passport. And I think some other exceptions exist. How about just deleting those last two words?
September, 29th 2018Heather Linna
I am in a border town in Mexico and go back and forth to the States weekly using my Passport Card. Now I want to travel further south, five or six hours away. Do I need a Passport Book or will my card work anywhere in Mexico?
- October, 4th 2018David P
  Your passport should be accepted throughout Mexico but if you wish to avoid having to explain to the authorities that may not be familiar with the passport card, you should travel with the book as well.
- November, 4th 2020Joe Flinn
  As long as your are in Mexico the passport card is good.
February, 5th 2018Kevin
Helo would I need my pastport to across into Mexico going to TJ and back? I remember I showed my Calif Driver license only the last time but that was years ago. Not sure if the rules changed. TY
- February, 7th 2018Alison Kroulek
  Hi Kevin, Under US law, you should have either a passport or a passport card, or an enhanced driver's license with an RFID chip. But Tijuana is in Mexico's "border zone," so you won't have to show a passport to get into Mexico. Where you may experience problems is in getting back into the US. If you're a citizen, they can't keep you at the border forever, but you might be in for some extra scrutiny or delays.
June, 22nd 2017Dinorah Sanchez
Hi.I need yo travel to México by land.I have my citizenship certificate,my state Drive licence & soc.sec.card. will i havea problema re-entering? US
- June, 23rd 2017Alison Kroulek
  Hi Dinorah, Possibly, since you're supposed to have a passport or a passport card to get back in.If you're a citizen they have to let you in but you could be delayed. I would use your citizenship certificate to get a passport card- they are cheap and let you cross the border by land or sea (but not by air).
June, 21st 2017Alden Burlingame
I am scheduled to go to Mexico from the US in August and just realized I only have 1-1/2 blank pages for stamps. I was told that a friend was prevented from departing the US for international travel because he had less than two. On the State Dept. website all it says is one stamp per page. So do I need 2 pages or not for Mexico. Thanks
- June, 23rd 2017Alison Kroulek
  If it's one page per stamp, you'll need one to enter and one to exit. You have time, so why take the risk? If you apply to renew now by mail you can just use the State Department's expedited service and still get it back in time.
June, 16th 2017harris
We have been planning on taking a family trip into Mexico. The night before we leave, I am unable to find my son's passport and he is 17 years old. The rest of the family has our passports. Will the Mexican government allow grant give permission to be in MExico for 7 days?
- June, 23rd 2017Alison Kroulek
  If you're traveling by air, no. You won't be able to get on the plane. If you're traveling by land and staying within the border zone, you shouldn't have any problem entering Mexico but may be delayed getting back while they verify his citizenship.
June, 5th 2017Shay
Hi my passport expired in January 2017. I'm going on a cruise in July leaving from Galveston and returning within 5 days. Will I need a passport?
April, 20th 2017gabriela
Hi I have a question I don't have my passport And Sunday we are leaving to mexico by land could I take And show my birth certificate and school ID
- May, 3rd 2017Alison Kroulek
  It depends on how old you are. If you're 16 and under, yes. Otherwise, you need a passport.
September, 17th 2016Chris Toni
We are flying to Mexico for a 5 day vacation and have realized that 3 of us have passports that expire within 6 months of travel. Is this going to be a problem? Info online is conflicting.
- September, 23rd 2016Alison Kroulek
  Hi Chris, As long as its valid and has a blank page for a passport stamp, you're good to go! More here: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/mexico.html
August, 24th 2015Jorge Flores
I’m planning on traveling to Nayarit, mexico from Tijuana airport that ! need something else beside the Passport
- August, 27th 2015Alison Kroulek
  No, you should be fine with just a passport.
June, 15th 2015bob streete
Has their been any recent changes on the 6 month rule on passports going to Mexico. We are going to Cancun in less than 2 weeks and I noticed both my children's passports expire about 3 weeks after we return. Will we have any trouble. Thanks Bob
- July, 9th 2015Alison Kroulek
  According to the Department of State, Mexico does have a "six month rule." http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country/mexico.html
August, 21st 2013Alison Kroulek
Thank you for your comment.
March, 25th 2013Abigail
Hi, my husband it's waiting for his passport but we need to travel to Mexico ASAP, I'm worried he won't be able to re-enter the US, he has his Driving license, social security card, a copy of his birth certificate and a receip of payment of his passport application would that be enough? Thank you.
- August, 21st 2013Alison Kroulek
  He will also need a passport to cross the border. This article will help answer that question: https://www.rushmypassport.com/blog/2012/03/where-do-you-need-a-passport/
March, 19th 2013sherry
I have a valid passport card however my two young children do not. Their father is in Mexico already. Can you tell me for sure if I can use their birth certificates to cross the border.
March, 8th 2013Mike
Hi, I am spontaneously traveling to Mexico this weekend with the family. I am currently 19 years old and my passport expired at the beginning of February. Will it be a problem getting back into the US with a birth certificate and a drivers license from AZ? Thank you for your insight.
- March, 8th 2013Alison Kroulek
  Hi Mike, Well, let's see... are you spontaneously driving or spontaneously flying? If you're flying, you're out of luck- you have to have a passport to board the plane. If you're driving, you are still required by the Mexican government to carry a passport or a passport card if you're going past the "border zone," 20 km into Mexico. As far as driving back is concerned...if you're a US citizen, they can't keep you out...but they have the option detain you while they verify your documents if your documents do not comply with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Yours do not- under the initiative, a passport or a passport card is required. But again, they can't keep you out. The amount of hassle you'll get depends on who's on duty when you cross back in. Hope this helps! And I recommend at least getting an inexpensive passport card for future (land and sea ONLY) trips!
February, 23rd 2013Austin
Hello, I am 18 years old and taking a week trip to Rocky Pointe with 3 friends, will we have any problems at the border, both in and out of Mexico? Help please.
- February, 24th 2013Alison Kroulek
  Hi Austin, Do you all have a passport or a passport card? If you do, you should have no problems. Otherwise, even if you bring a birth certificate to prove your US citizenship, you may experience delays and extra scrutiny when you re-enter the US. I'd recommend getting a passport or at least a passport card, as the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative requires. :) Have a safe trip!
February, 11th 2013Saratoga Sam
Hello, My passport has recently expired What documents do I need to carry (naturalization cert./driver's license/expired passport) if I would like to go to Puerto Penasco/Rocky Point via land? Will I have issues re-entering the US? Please advise.
- February, 14th 2013Alison Kroulek
  Hi Sam, You shouldn't have any problem getting to Rocky Point as it is within Mexico's "Border zone." However, on the way back you are supposed to have a passport or a passport card, per the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Now, they can't keep you from re-entering the US if you're a citizen, but they can temporarily detain you while they verify that the ID/citizenship documents you do have with you are valid. If you're dead set on traveling without a passport or a passport card, I'd bring all of the documents you mentioned above. But really, I'd advise you to either renew your passport or at least get a passport card for this trip.
February, 2nd 2013Kim walker
My husband won. A 3 day cruise to cancun... This will be our very first cruise and my very first time traveling to Mexico my husband been there before on mission trips with our church., my question is can I get just the passport card? Idk the new regulations...
- February, 6th 2013Alison Kroulek
  Hi Kim, Double-check with your cruise line, but a passport card should be fine. Congratulations, and have a great trip! :)
January, 28th 2013Timmy
My friend & I will drive into Mexico and then fly domestically (Tijuana - Mexico City). My friends passport is expired. Will this be an issue?
- February, 1st 2013Alison Kroulek
  Hi Timmy, Yes, any time you go past the border zone (more than 12 miles into Mexico), you are required by the Mexican government to carry a valid passport or passport card. Hope this helps!
December, 21st 2012Kris
My US passport expires in 80 days. I know Mexico doesn't require VISA for a one week tourist travel to Cancun, but will American Airlines deny me boarding at Miami, because my passport is only valid for less than 90 days.
- December, 22nd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Kris, You shouldn't have any problems getting into Mexico, but I would call American Airlines and make sure it won't be an issue with them. Have a great trip!
October, 14th 2012Thom
I'm going to be out in San Diego over the holidays and am thinking about a day trip to Tijuana. I know my New York enhanced driver's license is acceptable for re-entering the US, but what about entering Mexico? Will I need my passport as well?
- October, 14th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Thorn, Not unless you're planning on going more than 12 miles past the border. Have a great trip!
September, 27th 2012kathy
Im planing to go to mexico tamaulipas is near to Texas border is tge first time i go to Mexico im traveling by bus but do i need passports to enter mexico and same for my childrens
- October, 1st 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Kathy, You'll need a passport or a passport card to re-enter the US from Mexico. If your kids are under 16, you can just carry their birth certificates. If they're 16 and older they also need a passport or passport card.
September, 10th 2012Chanel
If I had a passport card and reported it stolen and in the process of getting a new one . Will I be able to cross into Tijuana and back with just my ID and Birth Certificate?
- September, 16th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Chanel, You can cross into Tijuana but may experience some delays crossing back into the US. They can't actually keep an American citizen from re-entering, but they can temporarily detain you while they verify your citizenship.
September, 1st 2012Belinda
Hi there, If I have a passport card and drive into Tijuana from San Diego, am I able to fly roundtrip from Tijuana to Cancun without a passport book since I will only cross borders by land?
- September, 9th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Belinda, Contact the airlines you're planning to fly with to make sure they'll accept it as identification. Good luck!
August, 19th 2012Chris
Can my mom reenter the U.S. with only her citizenship certificate?(doesn't have time to get her passport and she is going by land)
- August, 21st 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Chris, Yes. They can't actually stop a US citizen from entering the country, but she may be temporarily detained while they verify her citizenship certificate. Or, they may just wave her on through! Just tell her to allow some extra time.
July, 27th 2012Jennifer S
I'm sorry...I mean Cancun Mexico!
- July, 29th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jennifer, Unfortunately not. For air travel you need a passport book.
July, 27th 2012Jennifer S
We are planning a trip to Aruba in October. We(both adults) have enhanced licenses from NYS....will this be ok. we are flying in and out.
June, 29th 2012Lynne L.
Hi, My 18 yr old niece will be traveling by car with her church youth group to Mexico (from California) next week, and just realized her passport expired yesterday. Can she just take her CDL and copy of her birth certificate? She currently has an appointment on Friday July 6th at the San Francisco Passport Agency, but is leaving for Mexico the following day on the 7th. Does she even need to go to SF? If she does go, would she walk out with a renewed passport or will they have to FEDex next day? Thank you for your assistance!
- July, 1st 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Lynne, Actually, she's under 19 and traveling by car, so she should be able to travel with her ID and birth certificate. Just make sure the group meets all of the qualifications listed on this page under the heading "Groups of Children." If she does go to San Francisco, they will probably be able to issue it the same day since she's leaving the next, but that's something you need to confirm with the passport agency directly. Call 1-877-487-2778 and they should be able to help. Good luck!
June, 27th 2012roxana
im going to mexico in some few weeks and my aunt is taking her grandchild. here grandchild don't have passports but citizens. what do they need to go to mexico with us?
- July, 1st 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Roxana, If you're flying, everyone needs a passport including the grandchild. See How to Get a Child Passport for details. If you're traveling by land, everyone over the age of 16 needs a passport or a passport card. Everyone under the age of 16 can bring their birth certificate. Hope this helps!
June, 27th 2012Luly
Hi, I have a client that wants to go on a cruise to Cozumel with her daughters (from Miami arriving back in Miami). The girls do not have a passport. Can they still get off the ship in cozumel? Also, do they need a letter from the father if he's not traveling with them? Thank you
- July, 1st 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Luly, They should be fine with just birth certificates and a letter from the father, as long as they don't try to go any further than 20 km into the country. See the State Department's web site for details.
June, 23rd 2012latosha
hi im going to mexico on da bus i ordere my passports but there not here yet but i have to leave like know can i just use my drivers licence and birthcertificate to go to mexico i know ill have to get a permit at the border right
- July, 1st 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Latosha, No, you need a passport or a passport card if you're planning on going any further into the country than the 20km border zone. As you can see from the State Department site, Mexican authorities are becoming more strict about this.
June, 23rd 2012Big Al
Thanks Alison, that really helped
June, 23rd 2012Big Al
Can I use my military ID to go and come from mexico?
- June, 23rd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Big Al, Only if you're traveling under military orders. Otherwise, you need a passport, passport card, NEXUS, FAST or SENTRI card or an enhanced driver's license to travel by land. To travel by air, you need a passport. Hope this helps!
June, 8th 2012Melissa
I am planning to go on a 3 day cruise from Long Beach to Ensenada in December. Will I need a passport for myself and my 6 year old son?
- June, 11th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Melissa, As long as the cruise ends at the same port it departs from, no, you don't need a passport. It's not a bad idea to have one just in case something happens, but you can go with a driver's license/birth certificate for you and a birth certificate for your son. Have a great trip!
May, 24th 2012Sandy
Hi i need to travel to Mexico asap for an emergency however i need to take my 3month old with me but i only have her birthcertificate should that be fine if im traveling by land, when i go & come back from mexico? I heard i need her passport if i wanna fly to and from mexico.. please advise. I already have a notarized permission letter from her father. Thank you
- May, 25th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Sandy, Yes, as long as you're traveling by land or sea, all you need is a birth certificate for a child under 16, as well as permission from her father. Safe travels!
May, 23rd 2012Luis
I'm 15 and my father asked me if I wanted to go with him, my step-mom, and her children to Rocky Point. I don't have a passport and they're traveling by land; could I get to and from Mexico with my birth certificate, and if so does it have to be the original or can it be a copy of it? Also will I need anything else such as a photo ID?
- May, 25th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Luis, You'll need your original birth certificate or an official certified copy with a raised seal. If your mom and your dad have shared custody, you'll also need a notarized letter from her authorizing the trip. Have fun!
May, 16th 2012jorge m
im picking up my daughter in about 20days since she is getting out of school she is 14 should i get her a passport anyways are is she going to be able to go back to the us with just her birht certificate since her grandmother is the one that is going to take her back from mexico back to the U.S if she needs the passport how much will it cost me to rush it thanks
- May, 25th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jorge, If she's driving, she just needs her birth certificate as long as she's under 16. If she's flying, she needs a passport. However, if she's in Mexico you'll need to contact the nearest US Embassy as she has to apply in person and we cannot rush a passport out of the country. Hope this helps!
April, 30th 2012pat
hi i need to travel to mexico within the next 7 days on an emergency..i applied for a passport card a few days ago,but i wont be receiving it on time..i sent in my nat. certificate since they require it..and now i only have my driver license will i be able to cross back?
- May, 2nd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Pat, Contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 and see if there's anything they can do to help. If not, bring your driver's license and whatever else you have that shows you are a US citizen. Allow extra time to cross back- they can't keep you out of the US if you are a citizen but they can hold you temporarily while they verify your citizenship. Good luck!
April, 15th 2012gia mendez
Im planning on goin bk home to mexico but i dont have a passport,jus my mex license. Can i still fly even if im not returning bk to the u.s?
- April, 17th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Gia, No, because the airline will not let you on the plane without the documents needed to disembark and get through immigration. Are you a Mexican citizen? If so, contact the nearest Mexican Embassy for assistance.
April, 4th 2012Aileen
Hi, I lost my U.S passport and I have a family emergency so I do not have time to get a new one, I do not have the money either. Can I reenter The United States with my drivers license and birth certificate? I am 21 years old.
- April, 9th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Re-enter from where? If it's Mexico, you may be able to get by with those documents if you enter by land, though you may be temporarily detained while they verify your citizenship. You will not be able to fly in, however. I would at least contact the nearest US embassy or consulate to see what they can do to help you. Good luck!
March, 22nd 2012george
hey tried to get one of those passcard there from the usps . so far nothing yet but it has been like 3weeks now all im seeing is "currently being processed " but no date yet and i did include a counsular report or a AE form 360(us army) there . no calls yet. ^^)
- March, 23rd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi George, You'll need to call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. Thanks!
March, 20th 2012Paul
Im going on a cruise that stops in Mexico, Jamaica and caymen islands and my passport expires 2weeks after my cruise is over..will i have a problem in any of these places???
- March, 23rd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Paul, You should be fine, but please contact your cruise line to confirm. Have a great trip!
March, 20th 2012Maria C.
I'm 19 years old and my boyfriend will be 21. We're planning to fly to Cancun (June 8th-14th) I'm a permanent resident of the US and my boyfriend is a citizen. I don't have my passport from my country of birth or from here. And he doesn't have his passport either. I know it'll be easy to get the American passport for him, but what do I do in my situation?
- March, 23rd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Maria, Check with the closest embassy for the country you were born in. They should be able to help you get a passport. Have a great trip!
March, 19th 2012charles chazon
Hi i'm an active duty U.S. military and i was thinking of going to Tijuana. I have an American passport and a military I.D. I just want to know if i use my passport going back to San Diego, are they going to find out i'm in the military? By the way, i am traveling by land. Any answer would be appreciated.
- March, 23rd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Charles, That's a good question. I can't say for sure but they shouldn't...you're not flying, so it's not like your name would be checked against a no-fly list or anything. Have a good trip!
March, 16th 2012alex zuccarello
Hi I am an adult of 18 years and I have my passport card. I am traveling to mexico with my sister of 15 years and she does not have a passport. Will it be a problem getting back in with the necessary idenifications and being only her sister, not her parent?
- March, 18th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Alex, Since she's a minor, get as notarized consent form for the trip from her parents. If you are driving, have her bring her birth certificate and she should be fine. If you are flying, you both need passports (the book, not the card).
March, 15th 2012Jen
Hello, i am going to be taking a domestic flight from tijuana to southern baja, (cabo san Lucas i think, not buying ticket so not sure) and i wanted to know if my enhanced drivers license will be okay or a passport card to fly within Mexico. I have tried calling the consulat and asking many many people and have had to return calls for the messages ive left and no one i know, knows the answer. I just bought my passport card and am trying to avoid the very expensive purchase of a full lown passport so soon after. If anyone has any inforation regarding this please let me know. Thank You!
- March, 18th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jen, I'm not sure what the requirements are for US citizens traveling on domestic flights within Mexico. Have you contacted the airline? That's what I would do. Good luck!
March, 8th 2012M. Vansky
Hello - My wife and I are planning a trip to Mexico - and just realized yesterday that her passport still has her maiden name. I read on a U.S. government site that it is o.k. to travel with the U.S. passport still in her maiden name as long as we have the marriage certificate. My question is will that be sufficient for Mexican Customs as well?
- March, 8th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Mr. Vansky, What site were you on? I would strongly advise you to ahead and get her passport changed to reflect her current name. If you scroll down to the FAQ's on this page (The State Department's website) you'll see that the State Department advises "all citizens need to travel in their current, legal names." Also, as part of TSA's Secure Flight program, the name on her plane ticket must match the ID she'll be using for traveling, and that would be her passport in this case. I would go ahead and get a new passport for her. Enjoy your trip!
March, 6th 2012Matt G.
I am currently living in the US. I have a permanent residence card. I plan on taking a flight to cancun, however I don't have a passport from my country of birth (iraq) or united states. The airline says my card is fine example for there purposes. What about the Mexican government???
- March, 6th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Matt, Please contact the Mexican Embassy to determine what you'll need to get in the country: http://embamex.sre.gob.mx/eua/index.php/en/contact-us
March, 6th 2012erin
hello, my boyfriend and i are going to cancun march 31st till april 8th. my boyfriend and i are us citizens with passports. however, we just realized his us passport will expire a few days after we return from cancun. my question is will it be a problem to go to cancun if his passport expires shortly after return? i have heard some countries have a 6 month rule but, have heard if us citizen going to mexico and back it doesnt matter??
- March, 6th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Erin, Mexico doesn't have a six-month rule, so you should be fine. Have a great trip!
March, 4th 2012Eryll
Can you use your Resident Alien card if you're on a closed-loop cruise instead of your passport?
- March, 5th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Eryll, In some cases, but it depends on your itinerary. Please check with your cruise line. Have a great trip!
February, 28th 2012Eddie Carrera
Good Afternoon i am a member of the USAF and a Mexican citizen and i am trying to fly to mexico. Do i need a passport to enter mexico? or will my military ID and Permanent residence card and birth certificate suffice? Thank you for your time and assistance.
- March, 2nd 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Eddie, Per CBP, your Permanent Resident card is all you need to re-enter the US, but Mexico and the airlines may each have their own requirements. Please contact the Mexican Embassy and your airline. See here for details: https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/1191/session/L3NpZC96cVJkUDRTaw%3D%3D
February, 24th 2012Frank M
im under 16 and i want to go to rocky point is it okay if i just have my birth certificate to re enter the us?
- February, 24th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Frank, Yes, if you're under 16 all you need is a birth certificate as long as your traveling by land or sea. Keep in mind that you would need a passport to fly to or from Mexico. Have a great trip!
February, 22nd 2012eric sanchez
Hi, I have a green card and will be driving to gto mx but I'm coming back in air plane. Can I come back from mexico, I'm not a citizen. I have DL. thanks for your time. I don't have a passport from mexico or here.
February, 15th 2012Diana
We are going to McAlan, Texas and sometimes go over the border to Progresso, Mexico for the day. We do have passports but we have had to send then in for renewal and do not have them back. Can we take a copy of our birth records and drivers liscense with us and get back into the US. We do have copies of our passports also.
- February, 24th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Diana, You aren't supposed to. You're supposed to have a passport or a passport card to get back across the border. That said, as long as you're a US citizen, they have to let you into the country. You might have to wait while they verify your citizenship, though, so allow extra time and bring as much documentation as possible if you decide to go that route. It would be better to get your passport beforehand- why not call the National Passport Information Center and see if they can get it to you more quickly? 1-877-487-2778
February, 11th 2012Liliana
I have a passport card to cross by land, but I'm flying tijuana-Oaxaca do I need a passport book as well?
- February, 19th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Liliana, I don't know whether or not you'd be asked to show it, but technically you're supposed to have a passport any time you travel beyond the border zone. I would contact your airline for clarification about what you need to board the flight.
February, 9th 2012Terianne
Can my boyfriend take my kids to mexico with him a vacation without me there? Does he need any kind of paperwork from me before he goes? They are traveling by car and have birth certificates.
- February, 9th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Terianne, He can, but since you won't be there give him a notarized letter showing that you consented to the trip, including all the kids' names, the dates and the expected itinerary. As long as the kids are under 16, with that letter and their birth certificates, they should be good to go. Your boyfriend will need a passport, a passport card, an enhanced driver's license (with an RFID chip) or a NEXUS, FAST or SENTRI card since he is over 16. Hope this helps!
February, 7th 2012janet
I have another question is it true their fining people for not having a passport?
- February, 7th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Janet, I've not heard of people being fined for not having a passport, but you may be delayed when you try to cross back into the US while they verify that you and your children are US citizens. As long as they can verify that, they have to let you back in. If you have two weeks, why not apply for your passport or a passport card either at the nearest passport agency or using our service (whichever makes the most sense for your situation)? That way, you'll have everything you need to cross the border without any hassle.
February, 7th 2012janet
Hi me and my two boys a 1 yr. old and a 2yr. old are going to Mexicaly in two weeks neighter my kids or I have a passport will we have a problem on the way back or will we be fine with our birth certificate and my u.s id please respond as soon as possible i need to now in order to take my trip
February, 6th 2012ShellBby
Hi my grandmother is sick i have a passport for me and my eldest daughter my baby does not require one as far as i know and my husband doesnt would he be able to cross and get back with his id & birth certificate??
- February, 7th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Shelby, First of all, I'm so sorry about your grandmother and I hope she recovers quickly. Now, on to your question: As long as you are driving across the border (and not flying) you should be able to get back into the country, but give yourself extra time to get across as you may have to wait while Customs verifies that your husband is a US citizen. It would be better if he had a passport or a passport card, and you might want to call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 to see if you can get an appointment to get him an emergency passport, or call us and let us help you. However, as long as he is a US citizen, they can't turn him away. Also, bring your baby's birth certificate-you'll need that, as well. Good luck, and I hope everything works out! Alison
February, 3rd 2012erika
Hello I need to go to tijuana with my kids, my kids don't have a passport can they come back to the us with there birth certificate and my I'D
- February, 5th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Erika, Yes, if they are under 16 they just need birth certificates. Also, if their father isn't coming with you, you should bring a notarized letter from him authorizing the trip, or proof that you have sole legal custody of the kids. Have a great trip!
January, 29th 2012Fran
I Have a question, I need to travel to TJ this Wednesday to pick up my in-laws at the airport; however, i just realized my passport expired in November 2011 and they have no one else to pick them up. Will I get fined or have difficulties returning back to the US? I have a valid DL. Please let me know as soon as you can.. Thanks
- January, 29th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Fran, You won't get fined, and actually Customs can't prevent you from entering the US. Legally, all they can do is pull you aside and make you wait while they verify your citizenship. You can reduce but not eliminate the chances of that happening by bringing as many documents that prove you are a US citizen as possible. I would bring both your expired passport and your birth certificate, if that's available. You may still experience some hassles getting back across into the US, and you should renew your passport as soon as possible for future trips into Mexico, but once they verify your documents are legit they have to let you in. Good luck, hope this helps!
January, 27th 2012Bethany Perez
I am planning to drive my children 11 and 9 down to Tijuana at the end of March. Is it true they will only need their birth certificates as long as a I have a passport card? Thank you for any information, Bethany
- January, 28th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Bethany, Yes, that will be fine! Have a great trip!
January, 25th 2012francisco
I'm a US citizen and I'm planning to go to mexico and I wanted to know if I need a mexican passaport to travel to mexico? If I do where do I get it?
- January, 25th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Francisco, No, you don't need a Mexican passport to travel to Mexico. Your US passport will work just fine. Have a great trip!
January, 13th 2012fredrro
im planning to go to tijuana with my cousins to visit family memers who are in tj for a few days... and i have applied for my passport but im waiting for them to approve it... can i still go to mexico and return to the u.s with only my i.d. and dont have my birth certificate since i had to send when i applied for the pass port
- January, 15th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Fredrro, If you're driving, they should let you across the border with your ID, but you may be stopped temporarily on the way back into the US while Customs verifies your citizenship.
January, 13th 2012Peter
We are planning to take 4 days cruise to mexico from los angeles. My wife have permanent resident card. Dose she need a passport to enter mexico. Thank you
- January, 15th 2012Alison Kroulek
  Hi Peter, Yes, see below: http://portal.sre.gob.mx/was_eng/index.php?option=displaypage&Itemid=55&op=page&SubMenu=
December, 28th 2011jacquie
Hello, my boyfriend and I Want to go celebrate new years in Juárez Chihuahua with my family. We are driving from Denver to Juárez but he does not have a passport he is a US citizen and he has his birth certificate and drivers liscence along with his student i.d from college do you think he should be fine to get back in ?
- December, 28th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Jacquie, Technically he is supposed to have a passport or a passport card. I can't say what will happen if he tries to cross back into the US without one- it's at CBP discretion whether they accept those documents or temporarily hold him while they verify his citizenship. They can't keep him out if he's a US citizen, but you should allow extra time because it may be a bit of a hassle. Hope this helps!
December, 27th 2011Marina
Hi, We are thinking to travel to Cancun, but me and my husband have green cards, and passports of Russia (they are expired). Do we need to get travel passports in order to fly to Mexico?
- December, 28th 2011Alison Kroulek
  You don't need a passport to get back into the US as long as you have your permanent resident card. However, you may need a valid Russian passport to enter Mexico. Contact the Mexican Embassy to confirm whether or not this is the case.
December, 25th 2011Luzma
I have to travel to chihuahua mexico in a few days, I'm visiting my family and i'm planning on staying in chihuahua for like three or four days. I have a permanent resident card (10 year green card) I haven't been to mexico in like 5 years, I was wondering if I also need a passport to cross the border back to the US. I think I still have a passport from mexico, but i'm not sure. I got married five years ago so the name on my passport and my green card are different now. Is that going to be a problem??? Or do I need to show something else that proves I'm a permanent resident?? like a drivers license. Thanks
- December, 28th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Luzma, You should be able to cross back into the US with just your permanent resident card. However, you may need your Mexican passport to enter Mexico; contact the Mexican Embassy to be sure. Hope this helps!
December, 20th 2011Marie
Oh, and it would be from Los Angeles to the two Mexico stops and then back to Los Angeles.
December, 20th 2011Marie
Hi, I'm planning on going on a cruise to Mexico in early January, but I've been told that you need a passport if the ship docks at any non-U.S. port. My husband does not have a passport nor is he a citizen, but he does have a valid greencard. Would he be able to get off the ship at Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas without any problems? We're also taking our 4 month old daughter, would just a birth certificate be okay for her? Or do you think the Bahamas are a better bet? Thank you!
- December, 21st 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Marie, A green card should be fine for your husband to get back into the US, but do contact the Mexican Embassy and see what he needs to enter the country. Also, contact your cruise line to see what they require in terms of documentation, as some will require him to have a passport regardless. You should be fine with your driver's license and an official copy of your birth certificate. Your daughter just needs a birth certificate. Both certificates need to have a raised or embossed official seal on them to be acceptable. Hope this helps! Alison
December, 15th 2011Evencio
im traveling to Tijuana mexico on Decemeber 21, 2011 and my passaport expired on october. do i need my passaport im only going for 2 days?
- December, 15th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Evencio, you do need your passport. You will not be able to get on plane to Mexico, if you are flying, without one. If you are driving, they will let you across the Mexican border but since you are supposed to have your passport to get back in, you may be temporarily detained while they verify your citizenship. Hope this helps!
December, 4th 2011betz
Hi, im 18 years old and am only going to mexicali, BC to drop off my cousin..do i need a passport to come back in? because my other cousin (shes 16) and goes in and out with her school i.d.
November, 17th 2011kwile
Hi, I'm suppose to go to Baja, Mexico with my friends this week. Some people tell me I need a passport, others say my driver's license is fine. I live in Cali, so we don't have enhanced driver's licenses. I also have a birth certificate. So, is that enough to go and come back, it's only for a couple days. If I need a passport then I won't be able to go this weekend. Thank you.
- November, 21st 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Kwile, Driver's license and a birth certificate is fine for exiting the US, but you may experience delays at the border as border officials verify your identity and citizenship.
November, 10th 2011cynthia
I will be flying from tijuana airport to guadalajara with my my 10month daughter .DO I NEED A US PASSPORT BOOK OR CARD TO FLY WITHING MEXICO? WELL OUR BIRTH CERTIFICATES BE ENOUGH TO BOARD THE PLANE IN TIJUANA?
- November, 15th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Cynthia, Please contact your airline or the Mexican Embassy (phone is 202-736-1600) to confirm what type of identification is needed for US citizens taking domestic flights within Mexico. Really though, since passports are required for US citizens traveling beyond the border zone (max 20-30km inside the country), you and your daughter should have valid passports anyway, even if you can get on the plane in Tijuana without them. Also, if you are traveling alone with your daughter you should bring a notarized form showing that you have the other parent's permission to travel. Have a great trip! Have a great trip!
October, 12th 2011Tom
Do i need a pass port to get into mexico?
- October, 14th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Tom, You need a passport book if you're traveling by air and either a passport book or a passport card if you're traveling by land or sea. Have a great trip!
August, 24th 2011Elmo
Hi, I'll be going on my honeymoon to mexico via plane. I have a green card but but a passport from Sri lanka. will i be ok to reenter the US? thanks
- August, 25th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Elmo, Sure, as long as you have a valid green card. Just bring it with you, along with your passport. Congratulations and enjoy your honeymoon!
May, 12th 2011Martha
I'm planning on traveling to Tecate, BC, Mexico on May 20th for a wedding, do I need a passport since it's just over the border? I don't actually have a passport right now, so I would like to know if I do need one. Thanks
- May, 18th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Hi Martha, It depends on how you're traveling. If you're flying in, you must have a valid passport, full stop. If you're driving, you won't be asked to show one to get into to Mexico so long as you stay within the "border zone" (20 miles or less over the border) but you're supposed to have either a passport, a passport card, or an enhanced driver's license to get back into the United States. So long as you're a US citizen, they can't keep you from re-entering the country but they can detain you while they verify your identity and citizenship. If you decide to drive across without a valid passport, passport card or enhanced driver's license, you should at least bring your birth certificate or naturalization certificate and expect delays coming back. Also, remember that Mexico will require you to show a passport if you go more than 20 miles into the country. Good luck!
April, 11th 2011RoseAnn
I am traveling to Cancun Mexico on April 23-30th 2011...My passport actually expires on May 15th, 2011..Do you think I need to get a new passport before I leave???
- April, 13th 2011Alison Kroulek
  Your passport will be valid for your entire length of stay, so you should be fine. Mexico doesn't have the "6-month rule" for US citizens. See their entry requirements here for more info: http://mexico.usembassy.gov/eng/eacs_sheet.html
July, 15th 2010Ana
My passport & naturalization cert still have my maiden namebut my driver license has been updated with new last name. I'm going on a cruise next month (closed-end loop from san diego to southern mexico then back to san diego). I cant get any passport appt until next month to update it. Would they let me board with my old passport, original marriage cert and driver license?
- July, 24th 2010Alison Kroulek
  Hi Ana, Call the cruise line and ask. It's closed-loop, so you should be able to use a copy of your naturalization certificate and your driver's license, but it's up to the cruise line whether they'll let you board or not.
January, 12th 2010Judith Musich
Is there a 6 month limit for expiration on passports if traveling to Mexico, the Caribbean etc.??
- January, 13th 2010admin
  Not if you're just going to Mexico, Canada or the Caribbean-although your passport needs to be valid when you return to the US. You might run into problems at the border if you try to reenter the US on an expired passport. Many other countries do require that your passport be valid for 6 months beyond the date you enter the country.