Does My Car Insurance Work in Canada and Mexico? (2024)

FAQs

Does My Car Insurance Work in Canada and Mexico? ›

While car insurance policies in the United States may extend to Canada, you may generally need additional temporary auto coverage in Mexico.

You'll still need to have your Canadian auto policy in place and supplement it with further coverage in Mexico to protect against financial losses if you are liable for causing third-party bodily injury or third-party property damage to your vehicle.

Most U.S. car insurance policies will provide the same coverages and limits in Canada for short trips. The types of coverages that usually extend into Canada may include: Liability coverage - Covers expenses related to injury, death or property damage of others when you're at fault.

Yes, car insurance is required for visitors to Mexico, and your United States auto insurance policy won't be valid there. To be protected, you'll need a separate Mexico car insurance policy that covers you for liability while you're in the country.

Mexican law requires that any vehicle operating on federal roads carries third-party liability insurance to provide coverage for damage caused in an at-fault accident. As stated earlier in this page, your US insurance policy will not cover your vehicle while driving in Mexico.

Your Government Health Insurance Plan (GHIP) will provide limited to no medical coverage outside Canada. Having travel health insurance for Mexico will ensure you are covered if you require medical care.

Most auto insurance companies will insure your Canadian car in the U.S. for up to 6 months, but some providers may provide coverage for longer or shorter periods, so be sure to check your insurer's time limits and restrictions for how long you can have your car outside Canada.

Nearly all American car insurance policies extend their coverage to Canada. A reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and Canada has led to mutually recognized insurance benefits. This means that, in most cases, your U.S. insurance will protect you with the same coverage, limits, and liabilities when you visit Canada.

You're in luck! The GEICO Insurance Agency can help you get affordable insurance in Mexico. So, whether you need a policy for a few days, 6 months, or a year, you can get the coverage you need. Mexican auto policies can provide coverage for liability, emergency roadside assistance, property damage, theft, and more.

Collision insurance covers damage to insured vehicles involved in accidents with other vehicles and objects. Collision coverage is optional. However, it may be required if you lease your vehicle or to meet financial conditions from your auto loan lender. Adding collision cover will increase your premiums.

What happens if you get in a car accident in Mexico? ›

Dial 911. Make sure an accident investigator (perito) is sent to do an accident report. An accident report is important to have to file a claim and prevent delays in paying your claim. Call your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident occurs and before you leave Mexico.

Travel insurance is not currently required for all of Mexico. However, travel insurance with medical coverage is required for visitors to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. This insurance is to protect travelers against any unforeseen medical event, including those derived from COVID-19 contagion.

How Much is Mexican Car Insurance Per Day? The costs average between $2 and $40 a day. The cost depend on several factors including type of vehicle, length of stay and the type of coverage you choose. You can purchase a policy for a day, a month, or a year.

Third Party Liability

This is what is required by Mexican law and must be provided by a Mexican insurance company. We offer up to $500,000 CSL (combined single limit) liability. It covers you in the event that you are at fault in an accident while operating the rental vehicle.

Some U.S. and Canadian policies may cover your vehicle for physical damage. The Mexican government, however, doesn't recognize U.S. or Canadian policies as valid insurance in Mexico. You must have Mexico Vehicle insurance before you drive into Mexico.

Summary of Mexico's vehicle import rules

Foreign-plated vehicles can be driven beyond the 25km border zone and outside of the defined Free Zones by visitors and temporary residents for a defined period by using a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) that is associated with the vehicle.

Will my Canadian auto policy cover me while I'm in the United States? Yes – Canada and the USA have a reciprocal agreement that allows drivers from both countries to use their own auto insurance while traveling across the border.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Mexico? There are currently no requirements that require U.S. citizens to carry medical or travel insurance as a condition of entering the country. However, since Mexico is still considered a developing country, many Americans purchase travel insurance before going.

Most U.S. auto insurers won't cover you while driving abroad, except for driving in Canada and driving in Mexico. Unless you have a credit card offering rental car insurance, you'll probably need to purchase your insurance from the rental company. Learn more about international car insurance and rental car insurance.