PEOPLE PAPERS

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Tourists entering Mexico must carry a tourist card, good for up to six months--they often offer less, which can be obtained at the port of entry, Mexican Consulates and Tourism Offices abroad. United States citizens will receive the card by presenting proof of citizenship. Minors, under 18 years of age, not traveling with their parents, must have with them a notarized affidavit granting permission for the trip signed by both parents or guardians.

PET PAPERS

Pet dogs and cats may be taken across the border if the proper papers are obtained, in advance, from a Mexican Consulate in one of the major cities in the U.S. To obtain the permit, a current vaccination and health certificate, from a veterinarian, must be presented.

VEHICLE PAPERS

Car permits are required when traveling 13 miles beyond the border. These can be obtained at the border upon presentation of a driver's license, registration, current license plates, proof of ownership (which can be either certificate of title or a notarized affidavit that the applicant is the owner or drives with the owner's permission), signing a document promising to return home with your vehicle and paying a $10 fee. Fee can only be paid by major U.S. credit card in the car owner's name. Posting a non-refundable surety bond for an amount similar to the value of the car in Mexico may also be required to obtain a car permit. These permits must be turned in to the Mexican Customs at the border on returning to the U.S. Canadian and American insurance is not valid in Mexico.

The purchase of Mexican insurance is mandatory--not by Mexican law but by good sense--before crossing the border.

No U.S. policy is valid and even a minor fender bender could result in an extended stay in a Mexican jail. Several good companies sell insurance at all of the ports of entry. One that we can recommend is Sanborn's.

CB RADIOS

Citizen's band radios may be used in Mexico only with prior approval from the Mexican Consulate. It is recommended that you inquire locally as to useable channels.

FIREARMS & FISHING TACKLE

Do not take firearms into Mexico. However, there are no restrictions on bringing equipment for either surface or underwater fishing into Mexico. It is necessary, though, to apply for a permit from the Fishing Department authorities for the practice of these sports. Usually the tourist can obtain this permit through authorized service agencies.

DUTY FREE LIMITS

Each U.S. resident may bring into the U.S. free of duty articles purchased in Mexico for personal or household use and not intended for resale up to a fair retail value of $400 if they have not claimed the exemption during the preceding 30 days.

SUBJECT TO DUTY

The recreational vehicle travelers may at times have items with them that they consider personal or RV house-keeping items, but custom officials will consider as not duty free. The following fall into that gray area: jewelry, machinery, antiques, gold coins, and biological materials. Rather than have the trip begin with a problem at the border, leave them at home.

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