Can I travel to Mexico from California without a passport?


Can I travel to Mexico from California without a passport? Yes. Crossing any international border requires a passport. A driver's license alone will not suffice, not even a Real ID license.


Can I take a trip to Mexico without a passport?

A valid passport book is required to enter Mexico by air, and those attempting to enter at an airport with a U.S. passport card only may be denied admission.


Can you cross back from Mexico with an ID?

U.S. citizens may present a valid U.S. passport; Passport Card; enhanced driver's license; Trusted Traveler Program card (SENTRI or Global Entry); U.S. military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or Form I- ...


Can you get back into the US from Mexico with just a birth certificate?

When U.S. citizen children under the age of 16 arrive by land or sea from Canada or Mexico they may present an original or copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate.


Can I travel to Mexico with just a California ID?

Crossing any international border requires a passport. A driver's license alone will not suffice, not even a Real ID license. But driving to Mexico, unlike flying there, does not require a passport book.


What documents do you need to enter Mexico?

U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book or card, in addition to an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). Travelers should be sure to enter Mexico with valid proof of automobile registration, even if remaining in the border zone.


How can I travel without a passport?

In place of a passport, you can use WHTI-compliant documents like passport cards, trusted traveler's cards, and NEXUS cards. While these allow you to travel to these regions by sea and road, they are not acceptable for international flights.


When did you start needing a passport to go to Mexico?

As early as January 1, 2008, U.S. citizens traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid U.S. passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security.


What happens if I go to Mexico without a U.S. passport?

If you try to enter Mexico without a valid travel document (i.e., your passport), authorities may deny you entry into the country. This is true for all forms of travel. Border authorities will likely check that you meet the entry requirements before allowing you to enter Mexico.


Can I travel while waiting for my passport?

If your passport's time is almost up, don't wait — start the renewal process now. You can't travel while your renewal application is being processed, and you need to make sure your travel documents are valid for at least six months past the dates of any planned international trips.


Can I go to Cancun without a passport?

At a Glance: Yes, you need a passport to go to Cancun, Mexico from the United States. When traveling by air, a valid passport is required, along with a completed Multiple Migratory Form (FMM).


Can I use my birth certificate to go to Mexico?

To clarify, U.S. citizens entering Mexico must present proof of citizenship (such as a certified copy of a birth certificate), photo ID and proof of sufficient funds. A passport and visa are not required of U.S. citizens entering Mexico for tourism or for transit for stays of up to 90 days.