I crossed the border at Tecate and only having driven across the Canada border previously, I had no idea what to expect. I thought it would be a confusing and lengthy ordeal but it turned out to be extremely easy.

USDA Pet Import Form for Mexico

Before heading south, I spent about 500 bucks at the Vet getting Shale’s shots updated, doing a heartworm test, fecal sample and getting her on a monthly flea and tick program. Up to this point, we’ve really just done the basic shots as we live in rural Montana without much risk for kennel cough or anything. She’s a hearty critter and we’ve only been to the vet for shots in 8 years.

Needless to say, her ass was sore after taking a few needles to update everything and get her signed off on the USDA form that is required for international travel. Turns out, this really only applies to airports. Much like the Canadian border, the Mexican border inspection didn’t even look at her or ask for papers. I would’ve gotten everything done anyways to keep her healthy as we travel through different climates and avoid health problems.

If you need the form, here’s the one my vet filled out and endorsed –

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/regulations/vs/iregs/animals/downloads/mx_aphis_7001.pdf

Buying Mexican Car Insurance

The other thing I did before leaving is purchase car insurance. They never checked at the border and I’ve had no requests from the military checkpoints either. I purchased a plan that covers both Baja and the mainland.

I’d advise anyone driving in Baja or Mexico proper to buy the insurance. The liability that comes with not having insurance is pretty major. In an accident without insurance coverage, you might end up in a jail cell until the damages are covered.

The insurance policy is easy to purchase online. The difference in price between 1 month, 6 months and 1 year is nominal so I just bought the year. I had quotes from several companies as well and all were about the same.

Ultimately I went with MexPro Insurance and paid around 174 USD for the year. The policy comes with roadside assistance and towing as well.

Here’s how the Tecate border crossing went down.

1. Pulled into Tecate around 11 am. Stopped just before the border. Filled my gas tank and changed dollars for pesos and the money changing place. You can’t miss it as it’s the only stop in town.
2. Pulled up to the border. The arm raised and the inspection lady waived me through and indicated to pull over to the left. I parked and she looked at my registration and passport and did a very quick look in the car. She asked about a big bag and I opened it and showed her the folding bicycle inside. She sent me on through and I drove past the military guards and into town where I parked about one block away.
3. In Baja, you don’t need to get stamped or anything apparently. I needed the tourist visa for the mainland however. To get this, you walk back through the border. Go through the turnstile on the right hand side. Walk past the offices and to the crosswalk leading to the blue building labeled Aduana.
4. Go inside and fill out the tourist visa form. Answer a few quick questions and they give you a paper to take to the Banjercito just outside. Walk to the Banjercito and pay in dollars or pesos. I can’t remember how much but think it’s less than 20 bucks USD.
5. Take the receipt back inside. Get your stamp and keep the tourist visa in your passport book for exiting the country later.
6. I hopped back in the car and hit the road, following the wine route signs. The traffic is a little nutty in Tecate at first. Lots of stop signs. It takes a few minutes to get in the rhythm of chaotic driving or at least it did for me.

Note on TIP (Temporary Import Permit) – I’m not sure if you can get this done right at the Banjercito at the border. It’d be worth asking. I’m nearing La Paz now and need to get mine for the mainland still. Not a big deal but it’d be nice to have it done already.

Things to know about Tecate – Not much that I saw worth stopping for here. There’s a dentist right at the border if you need some cheap dental work. I hear Los Algodones is another hot spot for dental tourism. Like everywhere I’ve been thus far, I’m sure there’s some amazing food to be had as well. Otherwise, it seems like a good place to pass through.