Can I use my driver's license instead of a passport?

No. Mexico requires a passport or passport card for all US citizens. Enhanced driver's licenses don't work here.

What if my passport expires while I'm in Mexico?

You can stay until your planned departure date, but you can't extend your trip. If your passport expires during your stay, contact the US consulate immediately.

Do kids need their own passports?

Yes. Every person needs their own passport, including infants. Kids under 16 can use passport cards for land crossings but need passport books to fly.

What happens if I lose my tourist card in Mexico?

Go to any immigration office (Instituto Nacional de Migración) with your passport and $30 USD. They'll print a replacement. Don't wait until you're leaving - do it immediately.

Can I extend my 180-day tourist status?

No extensions allowed. You must leave Mexico and re-enter to reset your tourist status. Some people do border runs to Guatemala or Belize, but this isn't guaranteed to work repeatedly.

What passport requirements do I need for Mexico travel?

US citizens need a valid passport book for air travel to Mexico, or a passport card for land/sea border crossings. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay - no minimum validity period required beyond your departure date.

Check your passport's expiration date. Mexico requires your passport to be valid only for the duration of your stay. If you're staying 7 days, your passport needs 7 days of validity remaining. No 6-month rule like other countries.
Choose the right passport type. Passport book for flying. Passport card works for driving or walking across the border, or taking a cruise. If you might fly back unexpectedly, bring the book even if you're driving down.
Get your tourist card (FMM). Airlines give you this form before landing, or get it at the border. Fill it out completely. Keep the white copy with your passport - you need it to leave Mexico. Lose it and you'll pay $30 USD for a replacement.
Prepare for the border questions. Have your return ticket ready to show. Know where you're staying (hotel name or address). Mexican immigration may ask how long you're staying and why you're visiting.

Can I use my driver's license instead of a passport?: No. Mexico requires a passport or passport card for all US citizens. Enhanced driver's licenses don't work here.
What if my passport expires while I'm in Mexico?: You can stay until your planned departure date, but you can't extend your trip. If your passport expires during your stay, contact the US consulate immediately.
Do kids need their own passports?: Yes. Every person needs their own passport, including infants. Kids under 16 can use passport cards for land crossings but need passport books to fly.
What happens if I lose my tourist card in Mexico?: Go to any immigration office (Instituto Nacional de Migración) with your passport and $30 USD. They'll print a replacement. Don't wait until you're leaving - do it immediately.
Can I extend my 180-day tourist status?: No extensions allowed. You must leave Mexico and re-enter to reset your tourist status. Some people do border runs to Guatemala or Belize, but this isn't guaranteed to work repeatedly.