What to Do if You Are Pulled Over by the Police in Mexico

It's a beautiful day in Mexico. You're cruising down the highway, windows down, feeling a warm breeze rolling in, when suddenly flashing lights appear in your rearview mirror. The Mexican police are pulling you over. Now what?

First, don't panic. While no one wants this to happen while on vacation, it can and does. Knowing what to do can make all the difference. Getting stopped by the police anywhere can feel intimidating, but with some knowledge, you can handle the situation like a pro in Mexico.

Stay Calm and Pull Over Safely

First things first – don't floor it or try to escape. Find a safe spot to pull over and do so smoothly. Keep your hands visible on the steering wheel and take a deep breath. There's no need to be nervous, even if you're unsure why you were stopped.

Be Polite but Cautious

A little courtesy goes a long way. A friendly "Buenos dias" (Good day) can help set a positive tone. However, this is not the time for oversharing. Keep your responses short and respectful. The officer may ask for your licencia de conducir (driver's license) and tarjeta de circulacion (vehicle registration). Hand them over but avoid showing other personal documents unless specifically requested.

You may also be asked to show proof of Mexican auto insurance, as U.S. insurance is not valid in Mexico. A Mexican liability insurance policy is legally required to drive in Mexico, but you can also get a full coverage policy that includes liability.

Ask Why You Were Stopped

It is fair to ask. Sometimes, police in Mexico stop foreign drivers for minor infractions – or even imaginary ones. Understanding why you were pulled over can help you navigate the next steps. Since communication can be a challenge, having Google Translate on your Android or iPhone can be helpful.

Do Not Take or Offer a Bribe

Be aware of the mordida (bribe). Never try to initiate a bribe.

Some police officers may suggest that you can settle the issue with cash on the spot. If an officer hints at this, politely ask for a written ticket instead.

If they persist, stay calm but firm. Not all police in Mexico are corrupt, and many states are cracking down on bribery. Some officers might be testing the waters to see if you'll fork over cash out of fear.

If an officer continues to pressure you, explain that you prefer to pay any fines through official channels. Take note of the officer's name, badge number, and location of the stop in case you need to report the incident.

Request to Pay at the Police Station

If you receive a legitimate fine, the proper procedure is to pay it at the local Tesoreria (municipal treasury), not in cash to the officer. If you suspect foul play, suggest going to the nearest Ministerio Publico (Public Ministry) or estacion de policia (police station) to resolve the issue. Often, this suggestion alone can discourage an officer from pushing for a bribe.

Tips

Keep these tips in mind while driving in Mexico.

• Follow the Rules: Obey speed limits (remember they are in kilometers/hour and not miles/hour), wear your seatbelt, and pay attention to road signs. Doing so reduces your chances of getting pulled over.
• Do Not Drink and Drive: Driving under the influence is illegal in Mexico and will invalidate your Mexican auto insurance policy.
• Drive During the Day: Avoid driving at night in Mexico. Random stops are less common in daylight hours.
• Carry Copies of Important Documents: Consider keeping laminated copies of your driver's license, passport, and registration. Avoid handing over the originals unless absolutely necessary.
• Get the Officer's Credentials: Take note of the officer's name, badge number, and location of the stop in case you need to report the incident.
• Use a Dash Cam: A video recording can help protect you in case of a misunderstanding or attempted bribe.

Getting pulled over in Mexico isn't the end of the world. Stay calm and remember that patience and respect can go a long way. Now, get back on the road and enjoy those tacos waiting at your next stop!