Before You Visit Mexico

UCSD’s proximity to Mexico offers students some wonderful cross-cultural opportunities. It also presents potential risks for individuals who are unfamiliar with Mexican laws. If you are planning a trip south of the border, please read this carefully.

Mexican Law

A person may be held in jail for seventy-two hours without a charge being filed. The Mexican judicial system does not presume the person accused of a crime is innocent until proven guilty. Bail exists but is often not granted to non-Mexican citizens.

No one age seventeen or younger can legally enter Mexico unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Using falsified identification can result in time spent in jail.

Many people have been arrested and have had to pay hefty fines for urinating and spitting in public. Avoid making public disturbances. Yelling, fighting, littering, and nudity are not appreciated in Mexico and can lead to your arrest.

Alcohol and Drugs

The legal drinking age in Mexico is eighteen. The possession of an open alcohol container in public is illegal. Drunk driving is considered a major violation in Mexico. Designate a driver who will not drink alcohol AT ALL. This person should also be responsible for making sure your party is all present before you reenter the U.S.

There is no difference between possession of drugs and drug trafficking according to Mexican law. The penalty for this offense may be five to fifteen years in prison.

Automobile Safety

It is essential to obtain auto insurance which is valid in Mexico before crossing the border in a vehicle. Many San Diego county agencies offer auto insurance to motorists who will be driving in Mexico. When a car accident takes place, the driver at fault must pay damages before being released from custody. An accident in Mexico is a felony.

Know traffic laws in Mexico before driving there.

Things to Remember

If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a passport, but always carry your drivers license or photo I.D. card.
Tell a friend what your plans are and when you will return.
You can be fined for jaywalking.
Park on the U.S. side of the border and walk into Mexico.
Go with a large group of people, and make sure they are all with you when you leave.
Obtain a tourist permit card if you plan to stay for more than seventy-two hours or go further than 150 miles south.

International Students

International students should consult UCSD’s International Center prior to visiting Mexico. They will be able to advise you on the appropriate documentation.

If You Need Help

The American 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 Consulate. If you are arrested, state your citizenship and ask to speak to the American Consul. Remember to keep identification with you at all times. Pay any fines at the police station. Do not pay an officer directly; bribery is illegal.

Digits to Remember

U.S. Consulate-Tijuana	(664) 622-7400	San Diego Trolley	(619) 233-3004
Night Phone from U.S.	(619) 692-2650	Mexican Consulate	(619) 231-8414
Day phone from U.S.	01152 (664) 622-7400	UCSD International Center	(858) 534-3730

Information provided by UCSD Student Safety Awareness & Sexual Assault Resource Center–Student Affairs, SDSU, and the Tijuana Visitors Bureau.