Smart Traveller FAQ: Mexico’s Temporary Vehicle Import Permit (TIP)

Central Mexico, unknown location.

Here's a quick and dirty of FAQs I've personally asked regarding the TIP (TVIP/IITV). For the full article and step by step guide click here.

Q1. Can I apply for a TIP at any border crossing? No. Not every border has a Banjercito or CIITEV module. Some are 20–30 km inside Mexico, not directly at the booth. Always check Google Maps or call ahead to confirm which crossings process TIPs.

Q2. Can I receive my refund at any Banjercito or border crossing? No. Not every Banjercito was created equally. Check the Full List of Banjercito IITV (TIP) Locations within Mexico for the locations marked without an asterisk * in my Temporary Vehicle Import Permit article . If you like maps, I plotted the list above into Google Maps.

Q3. Are Banjercito offices open 24 hours? Only a few major crossings (like Nogales – Mariposa or Nuevo Laredo – Colombia) run 24/7. Most others close between 6 PM – 10 PM. If you arrive late, you may have to overnight near the border. Call before you go: +52 (55) 9689-8006.

Q4. How long does the process usually take at the border? Expect 45 minutes – 1 hour if documents are complete. Add extra time during weekends or holidays. Online applicants still need to stop at immigration for the FMM, but skip the payment queue.

Q5. How long does it take to receive the permit if I apply online? Usually within 7–10 days of applying. You’ll receive an email with your permit PDF. Print it and carry it as you travel through Mexico.

Q6. What if my vehicle is financed or leased? Bring a notarized letter of permission from the lender or leasing company plus the contract listing the VIN. Without these, Banjercito may deny the permit outright.

Q7. What happens if my TIP expires while I’m still in Mexico? The vehicle becomes illegal. You’ll lose your deposit and could face impoundment or fines. In extreme cases, the vehicle may be confiscated. There’s no grace period, TIPs expire to the minute.

Q8. Can someone else drive my vehicle out of Mexico and still get the deposit back? Yes, but only if that person is listed as an authorized driver (spouse, parent, child, or sibling) and the refund method is still in the importer’s name. If paid in cash, the importer must appear in person to collect the refund.

Q9. My permit shows a shorter validity than my visa. Why? Some offices automatically match the shorter of the two (TIP vs. FMM). If you get a temporary resident visa sticker but not the actual card yet, they may issue a 30-day TIP. Once your residency card is active, you can extend through Banjercito with proof.

Q10. What if my vehicle breaks down or is totaled in Mexico? You still must cancel the TIP, even if the vehicle can’t be driven out. Contact Banjercito immediately. You’ll likely need proof of destruction, police report, or insurance documentation to clear the permit and reclaim your deposit.

In Chiapas, with black sheep trotting behind the bikes.

Q11. How long does it take to get the deposit refund? Usually 3–10 business days for card payments, but it can take longer during holidays. Cash refunds are immediate but only to the importer in person. Read more in this article about exiting Mexico.

Q12. Can I bring a trailer or motorcycle with my car? Yes. Each requires its own permit. Trailers get a 10-year TIP separate from your six-month vehicle TIP. Don’t forget to cancel both when exiting.

Q13. What’s the most common mistake travellers make? Not canceling the permit before leaving Mexico. Many riders exit through a small or remote border without a Banjercito module and lose their deposit permanently.