When entering Mexico by land, you will need to stop at Mexican immigration (marked as "INM" or Instituto Nacional de Migración) to have your passport stamped. At major crossings, this process is typically quick, but you should allow extra time during peak travel periods.
If driving into Mexico beyond the border zone (generally 20-30 kilometers from the border), you will need a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) for your vehicle. This can be obtained at border checkpoints or pre-arranged online. The permit requires a refundable deposit of approximately 400 USD.
Border crossing times vary significantly. Early morning or late evening crossings tend to be faster than midday. Some smaller crossings offer shorter waits but may have more limited hours of operation. For the most efficient experience, consider crossing on weekdays rather than weekends when tourist and local traffic increases.
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