Mexico: Information and Safety

Note: Print this Web page, and carry it with you for reference during your stay in Mexico.

Mexican law

• You must be at least 18 years old to legally enter Mexico without a parent or guardian.
• In Mexico, you can be arrested for the following:
  • Using a false ID
  • Urinating or spitting in public
  • Public disturbances, such as loud cursing, throwing bottles, and fighting
  • Nudity
  • Littering
  • Jaywalking
• If you are arrested, you can be held in jail for 72 hours without charges being filed.
• Under Mexican law, you are not presumed innocent until proven guilty.
• Bail exists but often is granted only to Mexican citizens.

Alcohol and drugs in Mexico

• You must be at least 18 years old to drink or enter bars and night clubs.
• Mexican law does not differentiate between possession of drugs and drug trafficking. The penalty can be 5 to 15 years in prison.
• If you possess an open alcohol container in public in Mexico or in San Diego, you can be jailed or forced to pay a fine.
• Drunk driving is considered a major violation in Mexico. Designate a driver who will not drink any alcohol. This person should also make sure your party is together before you leave a bar or re-enter the U.S.

Vehicle safety

• Under Mexican law, a car accident is considered a felony. You must get auto insurance that's valid in Mexico before crossing the border in a vehicle.
• When a car accident takes place, the driver at fault must pay damages before being released from police custody.
• In Mexico, it is illegal to make a right turn on a red light.
• Speed limits are posted in kilometers, not in miles per hour. Drive slowly, and obey posted signs.
• The main road to Baja operates on a toll system. Make sure you have enough money to pay the tolls on your return trip.
• If possible, park on the American side of the border and walk into Mexico. You can find U.S. parking lots within walking distance of the border.

If you decide to go

• Tell a friend where in Mexico you are going and when you plan to return.
• Take your driver's license and passport. See the requirements from the state department.
• Carry your health insurance policy name and number with you at all times while traveling. Know what to do in case of a medical emergency.

Information for international students

• If you are an international student, contact the UCSD International Center (map), (858) 534-3730, to find out what documentation you should have with you when you visit Mexico.
• If you have additional questions, call the Mexican Consulate, (619) 231-8414.

What to do if you need help

• The U.S. Consulate in Tijuana can provide you with limited assistance in serious emergencies. If you find yourself in medical, legal, or financial difficulty while in Mexico, call the U.S. Consulate, (624) 143-3566 or (664) 622-7400.
• If you are arrested, state your citizenship and ask to speak to the American consulate. Keep your ID with you at all times.
• Ask to speak to the chief of police if you have any concerns about your contact with a law officer. Note the badge number, uniform color, and the police patrol car number at the time of your encounter.
• Pay any fines at the police station. Do not pay, or attempt to pay, an officer directly. Bribery is illegal, and law enforcement officials are not authorized to take money to clear infractions.

Phone numbers you should know

• U.S. Consulate in Tijuana (Baja), dial (664) 622-7400 (when you are calling from Mexico)
• U.S. Consulate in Tijuana (Baja), dial 011-52-664-622-7400 (when you are calling from the U.S.)
• After hours and weekend emergency answering service, (619) 692-2154
• San Diego Trolley, (619) 233-3004
• Mexican Consulate in San Diego, (619) 231-8414
• UCSD International Center, (858) 534-3730

For more information, e-mail or call the Sexual Assault & Violence Prevention Resource Center (SARC), (858) 534-5793.